Solterra Senior Living Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q:	What is assisted living?
A:	The Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) defines an assisted living residence as a special combination of housing, personalized supportive services and health care designed to meet the needs — both scheduled and unscheduled — of those seniors who need help with activities of daily living (ADL), such as bathing, dressing, eating and monitoring medications. Assisted living exists to bridge the gap between independent living and nursing homes. Residents in assisted living centers are not able to live by themselves, but do not require constant care either.

Q:	Who lives in assisted living communities?
A:	Nationwide, approximately 800,000 people live in assisted living communities. A typical assisted living facility resident would be a woman in her mid to late 80's who does not need the intensive care of a nursing home but prefers more companionship and needs some assistance in day-to-day living.

Q:	What should I expect from an assisted living community?
A:	Assisted living communities offer many features. Residences are often apartments within a larger building or can be separate, free-standing buildings. Communities are built upon encouraging well being, independence and privacy of residents. Living spaces are designed to accommodate the special needs of residents and usually include custom handrails, wheelchair accessible rooms, corridors and bathtubs, as well as emergency-call devices. Most communities offer personal care services that are tailored to residents’ needs.

Q:	What should I expect on a day-to-day basis?
A:	Aside from daily personal care services, residents live their lives as usual. Assisted living communities offer a variety of activities and special events including arts and crafts, cultural activities, onsite entertainment and group outings, parties and healthy lifestyle groups, to name a few. Most communities have a full event calendar, so residents have access to a very active and social lifestyle.