Choosing the right place for your loved one is a big decision, and it can be an overwhelming process, especially if you’re completely new to the terminology. If you’re just beginning your search for assisted living for your parent or other loved one, our guide can help you get off to a good start.

What Are My Assisted Living Options?

When you first begin researching assisted living for your loved one, the terms may be confusing or unfamiliar. Some of the most common terms you might run across in your search are listed below. These describe not only assisted living but also other levels of care.

Independent living

Independent living apartments and homes are often part of a life plan community, also referred to as a continuing care retirement community (CCRC). These locations are for residents who are still fully independent but are looking to downsize and be part of a care system as they begin to age. The newest life plan communities are modern, stylish ranch homes and condos, much like any other neighborhood.

Assisted living

Assisted living provides personal care and support services, such as meals and transportation. Residents retain independence over most tasks but can get more help as they age or as their situations change.

Post-acute & rehab care

Post-acute & rehab care is ideal for older adults recovering from surgery, illness, or injury. In a rehab setting, residents follow a personalized care plan to meet their goals and regain strength and confidence. Care services may include wound care, skilled nursing services, and physical, occupational, or speech therapy.

Long-term care and memory care

Long-term care provides comprehensive care services to residents who require ongoing medical assistance due to chronic health conditions. Specialized memory care and support services are specifically designed for residents living with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. Residents can expect personalized support, dignity, and a high quality of life.

How Do I Pay for Assisted Living?

You’ve probably heard all sorts of numbers thrown around when it comes to how much you need to pay for assisted living. The truth is, there’s no replacement for sitting down and running the numbers for your loved one’s specific situation, including age, income, assets, the kind of lifestyle they need, and other factors. You can use the Genworth Financial calculator to check the average monthly cost for assisted living in your area.

Costs for assisted living vary widely depending on location and the options your loved one chooses. According to AARP, many residents pay out of pocket. Funding from Medicaid waivers may be available at some communities to help pay for a portion of the cost, but typically don’t cover everything.

Once you and your loved one have chosen a few locations, it’s best to meet face-to-face with a counselor and discuss the costs. If you have questions, be sure all parties are on the same page about the terms before signing anything.

What Should I Look for in an Assisted Living Community?

Which option is right for your loved one? We can’t answer that, but we can help make it easier to choose. When you’re evaluating options, consider some of the following tips:

• Visit in person. Websites and brochures are nice, but they can’t tell the whole story. Meeting staff members and touring the community for yourself are the best ways to get a feel for the environment and services offered there.
• Ask around. Coworkers, friends, and neighbors have likely gone through this same process. See if they have any recommendations on communities – or know which ones to stay away from.
• Talk with your loved one. They’ll be the ones living there, so ideally, they should have input in the choice. Discuss what’s most important to them and look for communities that match their expectations.
• Don’t be dazzled by bells and whistles. A brand-new building looks nice, but are the staff members qualified? Do the residents receive personalized, one-on-one attention? Do other families rate it highly?
• Take stock. Use a checklist to make sure a location meets your loved one’s needs, preferences, and lifestyle.

Learn More About Choosing an Assisted Living Community

Download our free guide to learn more about how to choose the right assisted living community for yourself or a loved one. You can even read a few pages before you download to see if this guide is right for you!

 

This blog was updated in 2026.