What is a paid senior living facility? A clear explanation of the differences from special nursing homes, types, and preparation for moving in.

There are three types of paid senior living facilities: assisted living, residential, and health-focused, and they are operated by private companies and other organizations. Most of the facilities that people generally imagine when they hear the term "senior living facility" are assisted living facilities. Their defining characteristic is that residents can live while receiving care services from the facility's staff.

Differences from special nursing homes for the elderly

Assisted living facilities are operated by private companies, and some facilities accept residents who are independent or require minimal support. Special nursing homes are public facilities operated by social welfare corporations, and are generally for those requiring Level 3 or higher care.

Preparing to move in

Typical items to bring include everyday clothes, underwear, pajamas, shoes, towels, and daily necessities. Laundry methods and the number of items to bring vary depending on the facility, so it's best to check before moving in. Choose clothes that are easy to change into and that are suitable for the facility's laundry system.

*Reference: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, "Overview of the Long-Term Care Insurance System," "About Long-Term Care for Residents of Specific Facilities"