Skilled nursing facilities provide 24 hour nursing care along with skilled medical management of specific conditions. Patients can be here for either long term care or short term rehabilitation.

Licensed by the State, Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE) homes offer personal care in a home-like atmosphere. Some facilities specialize in providing more one-on-one attention to residents with Alzheimer's, dementia or frail seniors with physical limitations. They also help with bathing, dressing, incontinence care, medications and meals. Some transportation services may also be available.

Operating almost like a mini-skilled nursing facility, Intermediate Care facilities provide intermittent nursing care, such as LVN. and 24 hour support for medical regimen, nutrition and hygiene, and moderate assistance with activities of daily living.

Also known as (CCRC). These buy-in communities are designated to provide various housing options and the security of long-term health care as needs change. These facilities can provide independent living, assisted living (some include multiple levels and Alzheimer's care) and skilled nursing. Initial investment required. Monthly charges depend on the level of care.

Multi-Level care allows seniors to remain at one facility over a long term. They often provide independent living, assisted living (see next description) and 24-hour care at the same site. The advantage of multi-level care is that care level can be increased or decreased, as the elder's needs change, without the disruption of relocating.

Licensed by the state, Assisted Living facilities provide 24-hour care to high functioning residents requiring help with medication, bathing, dressing, housekeeping, laundry, and transportation. They also have activity programs.

Congregate housing integrates accommodations and services for more independent seniors who may be somewhat frail, ill, or socially isolated, but do not need 24-hour supervision. Each facility is unique in what they offer. Available services generally include meals, transportation, housekeeping, and social activities.

Senior centers may be available in your area to provide senior day care and/or adult health care with meals and activities.

For active and independent seniors, these apartments and communities typically offer no services, although some may have transportation, monthly gatherings and/or a community room.

Home health care includes health and supportive services which patients receive in their home. Skilled services under physician's orders are provided by nurses, social workers, or physical, occupational, and speech therapists. While skilled services are usually covered by medical insurance, private duty assistance, such as chore workers, typically is not covered.