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Nursing Homes, Assisted Living Facility (ALFs), Continuing Care Retirements Communities (CCRs) and Board and Care Homes (Adult Homes).

The primary differences between a nursing home and a senior living community are the progressive care services available, amenities offered and lifestyle options. Senior living communities offer more independence and life enrichment opportunities, while many nursing homes focus more on around-the clock monitored support, which is needed by most residents.

An ALF may be suitable for someone who needs assistance with daily care but not 24-hour skilled nursing care. Usually, residents live in separate apartments (or a couple may share an apartment). They also may have access to common areas such as dining rooms, game rooms and lounges. Services typically include assistance. with personal care and medications, meals, housekeeping, laundry and security. Recreational and social activities are offered as well.

CCRCs allow residents to take advantage of varying levels of care within one community. Usually, individuals live in a separate house or apartment and rely on services there. Recreational and social activities are also available. As the need for care increases, residents can scale up services based on their health care needs; for instance an individual can be transferred to an ALF or nursing home on the same campus (or move to an outside facility). In-home care is also available so residents aren't necessarily forced out of their living quarters.

Adult Homes (AH) tend to be smaller facilities than nursing homes and ALFs, with fewer residents. They are established and operated for the purpose of providing long-term residential care, room, board, housekeeping, personal care and supervision to five or more adults unrelated to the operator. Rooms within the facility may be private or shared with others.

An Enhanced Assisted Living Residence (EALR) is a certification that allows approved assisted living residences to serve residents with more advanced needs than primarily found in standard assisted living or adult homes.

The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) is responsible for licensing and regulating adult care facilities throughout New York State. You can search the NYSDOH website for a list of licensed assisted living residences and their certifications, including EALR status.

These benefits provide monthly payments added to the amount of a monthly VA pension for qualified Veterans and survivors. You may be eligible for this benefit if you get a VA pension and you spend most of your time in your home because of a permanent disability. You cannot get Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits at the same time. Visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for more information.