Assisted Living

According to the Assisted Living Federation of America, factors contributing to the growth and popularity of the assisted living industry include:

The aging of the American population, including the dramatic increase in the number of persons aged 85 and older. According to information summarized from the U.S. Bureau of Census, the population of people 85 and older is expected to increase by 33.2 percent between the years 2000 and 2010.

According to census figures, about 6.5 million older people need assistance with daily living activities. As the number of older Americans continues to increase, that number is expected to double by 2020.

In Arizona, assisted living facilities are regulated pursuant to the Arizona Administrative Code R9-10-701 et seq. and are required to report to the State of Arizona suspected or alleged abuse, neglect, or exploitation within 24 hours of receiving the allegation.  In addition assisted living centers must prevent the suspected or alleged abuse, neglect, or exploitation from occurring in the future and may not accept residents who require services that the facility is not licensed to provide.

• Typical problems involving assisted living care include:
• Accepting residents who require services that the facility is not licensed to provide.
• Failing to report abuse and neglect.
• Failing to hire and/or train competent staff.
• Failing to prepare a service plan that describes the resident’s needs.
• Failing to notify physicians and next of kin of changes in medical condition or injuries.

If you believe you or a loved one has been injured in an assisted living facility, please call Knapp & Roberts for a free consultation.