Living situations can become complicated as people age. There are many different living options as they go through the stages of aging. One option is to move into a senior living community that offers independent and assisted living services. Occasionally, a resident may need more care than an assisted living community provides and will consider adding a private caregiver.

Can a resident hire a caregiver when living in an assisted living facility?

There are a lot of factors to consider when answering this question. The first factor is understanding the state regulations regarding private caregivers in an assisted living facility. That can help determine if a caregiver can come in. If a caregiver can come in, the facility may have to meet specific procedures, such as a background check, insurance, and informing the caregiver about the community rules and operations. Furthermore, the community may require an agreement or establish policies and procedures for the caregiver. In addition, the facility may discuss expectations and terms with the resident and their family or legal representatives.

What type of care does an assisted living community provide?

Assisted Living communities are there to offer assistance while maximizing a resident’s independence. Generally, senior living communities will assess their residents annually to determine the level of care, if needed. Care includes help with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs):

• Ambulating by helping an individual move from one position to another and walk independently
• Feeding, including bringing the food to a resident
• Dressing, such as selecting clothing and assisting with putting the clothes on or off
• Personal hygiene, such as bathing
• Continence
• Toileting by helping a person get to and from the toilet and clean oneself

Most facilities use a point system and then break down the level of care based on the range within the point system. The higher the points, the more care is needed and charged accordingly. Keep in mind that the caregivers in an assisted living facility are caregivers for many residents, so they do not have the time that a private caregiver may give, hence why a person may want to bring in a private caregiver.

Is bringing a private caregiver into an assisted living facility a good idea?

Every person’s financial situation is different. Living in an assisted living facility costs money, so adding in the cost for a private caregiver can add up. You need to consider if you can (1) financially afford it and (2) how long a person will need a private caregiver. Adding a private caregiver might make sense if this is only temporary while a person is healing. Furthermore, some families bring in a private caregiver for additional support and to provide a routine as well as be the eyes and ears for them. In the end, you may need to re-evaluate your person’s living and financial situation and possibly look into another facility that can meet the person’s needs. Reaching out to an Aging Care Specialist or an Aging Placement Coordinator could help guide you and your loved one’s residence and level of care.

STAGES is here to help you through the aging process.