Assisted living is a significant provider in the long term care spectrum and
continues to receive attention nationwide. Assisted living is no longer a
provider category “in its infancy.” It is a long term care option that is preferred by many individuals and their families because of its emphasis on resident choice, dignity and privacy. There are federal laws that impact assisted living but oversight of assisted living occurs primarily at the state level. The varying laws and regulations affecting these settings have created a diverse and fluid operating environment for providers and a mix of terminology, settings, and available services for consumers. Overall, these variations reflect the development of assisted living to meet the needs of the individuals in each particular state. More than two-thirds of the states use the licensure term “assisted living”and some states use a similar term (e.g., Tennessee uses “assisted care living facilities”). In 2005, assisted living regulations continued to evolve, in some states reflecting a trend toward rising resident acuity levels. While a few states overhauled their regulations, many implemented targeted reforms and/or made minor adjustments. And, as in recent years, many states made no regulatory changes.