Understanding Assisted Living Contract Agreements: A Comprehensive Guide

Signed contract agreements between the assisted living facility and the resident are required by law before a resident can be admitted. These contracts are designed to ensure that each resident understands the requirements of the facility and her rights as a resident.

Who Must Sign

• Contract agreements must be signed by an authorized representative of the assisted living facility as well as the resident. In the event that the resident is unable to sign, an authorized representative--usually a family member or spouse--may sign on his behalf.

What Is Included

• Assisted living contract agreements spell out the terms of residency, including patient rights, fees and payment schedules, and facility polices and rules.

Other Information

• Among other things, the contract must explain the procedure that residents can follow for filing a complaint against the facility as well as rules concerning the locked storage of personal property.