Below are common terms and phrases used in discussing health care issues.


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Accredited / Accreditation - Having a seal of approval. Being accredited means that a care facility, community or health care organization has met certain quality standards. These standards are set by private, nationally recognized groups (accreditation bodies) that check on the quality of care of health care facilities and organizations. Examples of accreditation bodies for senior housing and care include CCAC (Continuing Care Accreditation Commission), CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) and JCAHO (Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations).

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) - Everyday activities such as getting in and out of bed, bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and using the bathroom.

Adult Day Health Center / Social Day Care - A group program outside of the home that provides a range of geriatric day services including social, nutrition, nursing and rehabilitation. Not all programs provide all services.

Aging in Place - Enabling a person to remain in his or her living environment, despite the physical and or mental decline that may occur with the aging process; not having to move to secure necessary support services in response to changing needs.

Alzheimer's Care Units / Special Care Units - Residential, assisted living or nursing facilities that offer specialized programs for residents suffering from Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.

Alzheimer's Disease - A degenerative, age-related disease which impairs a person's cognitive ability; presenile dementia. Symptoms may include forgetfulness, wandering and the inability to recognize others. The disease is caused by neuron dysfunction and the death of brain cells in specific regions of the brain which are responsible for cognitive functions. Both genetic and environmental factors most likely play a role in the development of Alzheimer's.

Ambulatory - The ability to walk around (ambulate); not bedridden or hospitalized.

Area Agency on Aging (AAA) - A nationwide network of State and local programs that help older people plan and care for their life-long needs. Services include information and referral for in-home services, counseling, legal services, adult day care, skilled nursing care/therapy, transportation, personal care, respite care, nutrition and meals.

Assisted Living - Independent residential care for people aged 62 and older who need some help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing and taking medication, or with meals and housekeeping. (Some facilities permit entrants to be under 62 years-of-age).