Assisted living is a type of long-term care designed for individuals who require assistance with activities of daily living. It is a relatively new concept in the world of healthcare, but it has rapidly gained popularity in recent decades. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the history of assisted living in the world.
The concept of assisted living can be traced back to the 1800s when the first homes for the aged were established in Europe. These homes provided shelter and care for the elderly who had no family support. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that the modern concept of assisted living emerged in the United States.
In 1979, the first assisted living facility was established in Portland, Oregon, by a group of healthcare professionals who saw a need for a new type of senior living. The facility was designed to provide a homelike environment and personalized care for seniors who needed assistance with daily activities but did not require the intensive medical care provided in nursing homes.
Assisted living quickly gained popularity in the United States, and by the 1990s, it had spread to other parts of the world, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. In these countries, the concept of assisted living was adapted to fit local healthcare systems and cultural norms.
Today, assisted living is a growing industry, with thousands of facilities around the world offering a range of services, including healthcare, social activities, and personal care. The focus is on providing residents with a comfortable and supportive environment where they can maintain their independence and dignity while receiving the assistance they need.
In conclusion, assisted living is a relatively new concept in the world of healthcare, but it has rapidly gained popularity in recent decades. It was first established in the United States in the 1970s and has since spread to other parts of the world. Today, assisted living is a growing industry, providing care and support for millions of seniors around the world.