Your possibilities for getting into assisted living

Assisted living is an offer for citizens in need of care around the clock. Assisted living is a self-contained accommodation with private entrance, furnished with own furniture, pictures, etc. Assisted living is located in nursing homes or care centres. The staff offer residents daily help with practical things and personal care. Assisted living is designed so that the front door entrance has no stairs or door steps, has wide doors, and spacious bathrooms.

The risk of falling in the home is reduced and it's possible to get around with a walker or wheelchair. There is room for a hospital bed, commode, shower chair, etc. There may be kitchen in the home. Assisted living arrangements are available for one person as well as for two people. Married couples, civil and cohabiting partners can continue to live together in assisted living even if only the one is in need of nursing and care.

The municipality is responsible for assisted living arrangements. If you need assisted accommodation, contact the assessor and apply via the municipality to get you approve you as needing assisted living. Once approved, there may a waiting list. When you are offered and have accepted a home, you will sign a lease and pay the deposit and the rent. You can apply for a subsidy for the deposit and ordinary housing allowances.

Before a citizen is approved for assisted living, the municipality will evaluate whether it's feasible and economically viable, to make changes in your present home, so it can accommodate the needs you have, and expect to have. There are different practices across the municipalities. Please be aware that if you apply for assisted living your family cannot get carer's compassionate leave.

While considering whether assisted living is right for you, it's a good idea to think about the pros and cons of opting out or choosing to move. Think about where you'll have - and will eventually get the best quality of life. Is it realistic to think that you can remain in your current home? Would your life be more comfortable in assisted living? What do your partner and family think? It may also be a good idea to speak to your doctor, nurse or social worker about what they believe will be the best option for you.

When making a decision, it may also be helpful to go and look at possible assisted accommodation. It can give you a realistic understanding of what the home can offer and what the restrictions are. Contact the place and hear if you can come and visit.

In some municipalities, there are institutions that focus specifically on palliative care. They offer palliative treatment and care for shorter hospitalisation to people with life-threatening illness. Places are often reserved for nursing homes or palliative units which cater to local citizens.