How are assisted living facilities (ALFs) regulated?
In most cases, assisted living facilities are regulated by the state and there is a great deal of variation among the states. In Oregon, the Senior and Disabled Services Division regulates assisted living and only licensed facilities can call themselves an assisted living facility. In other states, an ALF may be licensed as a residential care facility, a boarding home, or a personal care facility and available services may significantly differ. With the exception of Oregon, a facility that calls itself an assisted living facility may not have to meet specific requirements so it is important that you understand what can and cannot be accommodated.
