careliving

Careliving is a term used to describe residential and service models that combine housing with supportive care for people who need assistance with daily activities due to aging, disability, or chronic illness. The term is used in some regions and by certain care providers to emphasize care as an integrated part of everyday living rather than a separate institution.

Core components include housing designed for safety and accessibility; help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and mobility; medical oversight, medication management, and coordination of rehabilitation; meals, housekeeping, transportation, and social or recreational activities; and 24/7 supervision or on-site staff in many settings.

Careliving models range from assisted living facilities and continuing care retirement communities to home-based care delivered in a resident’s own dwelling. Some operators market careliving as a broader concept that covers both facility-based and home-based services, with an emphasis on person-centered planning and flexible levels of care. It is distinct from skilled nursing facilities, which provide more intensive medical care and supervision.

Regulation and funding vary widely by country and region. Licensing typically covers safety, staffing, and care standards; payment may come from private pay, long-term care insurance, or government programs in some jurisdictions. Quality is monitored through inspections, accreditation, and resident satisfaction surveys.

Trends affecting careliving include demographic aging, preferences for aging in place, and integration of technology such as telehealth, remote monitoring, and assistive devices. Challenges include workforce shortages, high costs, and fragmentation of services across housing, health care, and social supports.

Related concepts include assisted living, home care, continuing care retirement communities, aging in place, and geriatric healthcare. The term careliving is not widely standardized and usage can vary by region and provider.