Assisted Living: 10 Things Directors Won’t Tell You
The promise of assisted living – a comfortable, supportive environment for seniors – often clashes with the realities of a rapidly evolving industry. While offering a potential alternative to nursing homes, assisted living facilities are facing increasing scrutiny over care quality, hidden costs, and a lack of robust oversight. A recent look into the experiences of families reveals a system where marketing promises don’t always align with the care provided, and where residents can find themselves unexpectedly displaced.
A System Under Strain
The story of Betty Ann Dresser and her father, Howard Wyllie, illustrates the challenges families face. After being discharged from a previous assisted-living facility, Wyllie, who suffered from diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease, was accepted into Village Retirement Communities’ Village at East Farms in Waterbury, Connecticut. However, the initial assurances from the marketing director quickly unraveled. A contract presented days later included a higher fee, and staff were unaware of Wyllie’s specific dietary and medical needs.
The situation escalated when Wyllie was found unattended and in distress, and subsequently denied readmission after a doctor’s assessment found no immediate medical issue. This experience, while extreme, highlights systemic problems within the assisted-living industry, including inadequate care, misleading marketing, and insufficient regulation.
The Illusion of Long-Term Care
A core misconception surrounding assisted living is the expectation of long-term residency. Facilities often suggest they can adapt to a resident’s changing needs, but the business model isn’t designed for increasingly frail and ill seniors. Altera Healthcare’s Consumer Information Page explicitly states that residents may be required to move if they require skilled nursing or too much personal assistance. State laws, such as in Florida, can also mandate a move to a nursing home if a resident requires more than seven consecutive days of bed rest.
Financial Concerns and Hidden Costs
The financial burden of assisted living can be substantial, with average monthly costs ranging from $2,000 to $6,000. Unlike nursing homes, Medicare and Medicaid generally do not cover assisted-living expenses. Facilities may also raise prices with little notice or tack on additional charges for services not included in the base rate. Lisa Lewis experienced this firsthand when Alterra’s Sterling House in Ponca City, Oklahoma, added an $800 monthly fee after implementing a new assessment program, ultimately forcing her father to move.
Staffing and Training Deficiencies
Many assisted-living facilities rely heavily on unskilled workers with minimal training. Medication errors are common, and pharmacies affiliated with facilities may charge higher prices. Former Manor Care executive Jeff Goldman noted that these facilities were initially designed for relatively healthy seniors, not those with significant health problems. Karen Love, a former administrator at Sunrise Assisted Living, resigned due to concerns about inadequate staffing and training, citing a dangerous incident where staff mishandled a resident in medical distress.
Regulatory Gaps and Safety Concerns
Unlike nursing homes, assisted-living residences often face limited federal regulation, with oversight varying significantly by state. This lack of consistent regulation can leave residents vulnerable to abuse and neglect. The case of Al Schmidt’s wife, who was sexually abused by another resident at a Sunrise Assisted Living facility in Michigan, highlights the potential for harm and the difficulties families face in seeking recourse when facilities fail to report incidents or protect vulnerable individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average length of stay in an assisted-living facility?
The average resident stays in an assisted-living facility for only two years.
Can an assisted-living facility require a resident to move out?
Yes, a facility can require a resident to move out if they require skilled nursing care, need too much personal assistance, or due to state regulations.
Are assisted-living facilities regulated by the federal government?
No, assisted living is not regulated by the federal government; rules and regulations differ by state.
As the assisted-living industry continues to grow, prospective residents and their families must be diligent in their research and prepared to advocate for their needs. Understanding the potential pitfalls and asking the right questions can help ensure a more positive and secure experience.