An article in the Elder Law Journal of the Illinois College of Law suggests that the Federal government needs to address and regulate health and care issues at Assisted-living Facilities, or ALF’s.

Nursing homes are subject to federal guidelines because they receive Medicare and Medicaid funds. But ALF’s are typically viewed as residential rather than health care facilities and are paid for with private funds. Residents are those who canot live independently but do not require continual nursing care.

Assisted-living facilities offer meals for residents, social activities and housekeeping services in addition to assistance in self-care such as taking medications. But due to there being no federal guidelines regarding training of staff or inspections, the level of care can vary.

The article states that federal laws and guidelines have improved the quality of care for residents in nursing homes and the same must be done for assisted-living facilities.

By 2020, the number of elderly Americans needing long-term residential care is expected to double from 7 million to 14 million.

Federal government needs to take closer look at assisted living facilities