Assisted Living or Assisted Living Facilities (ALF) usually refers to a non-institutionalized facility that is used by people who are not able to live on their own, but do not yet need the level of continuous nursing care that a nursing home offers.

ALF's can be anywhere from a small residential house for 3 residents up to very large facilities providing services to hundreds of residents. Most states have enacted laws governing these facilities and have also recognized that these facilities play an important role in caring for the elderly that is not filled by the traditional nursing home or retirement home. New Mexico has even published a long range plan that incorporates Assisted Living Facilities in a key role of independent living. They state that "we must continue the movement towards home- and community- based services and away from institutionalized care" (p. 38, State of New Mexico 2006 Comprehensive Strategic Health Plan)

People who live in newer model assisted living facilities usually have their own private apartment. There is usually no special medical monitoring equipment, nor 24-hour nursing staff, that you would find in a nursing home. However, trained staff are usually on-site around the clock to provide other needed services. Where provided, private apartments generally are self contained; ie; having their own small kitchen, bathroom, living area, and bedroom. Alternatively, individual living spaces may resemble a dormitory or hotel room consisting of a private or semi-private sleeping area and a shared bathroom. There are usually common areas for socializing, as well as a central kitchen and dining room for preparing and eating meals.

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