A GUIDE FOR FAMILIES
If you are trying to figure out senior care options for someone you love, you probably have a lot of questions. That is normal. We have gathered the resources and answers that families find most helpful, all in one place.
TRUSTED RESOURCES
These are organizations we trust and recommend to families. Whether you need help applying for PACE, CHOICES, or finding support for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, these are good places to start.
Tennessee’s Medicaid program for long-term care. If your loved one needs adult day care and you are wondering how to pay for it, start here.
Ascension Living Alexian PACE is a community-based program that serves elderly residents of Hamilton County through a healthcare model that includes senior home care, adult daycare, and specialized geriatric medical care.
Local agency that helps older adults and caregivers in the Chattanooga area find services, support, and answers.
If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, this is the best place to start. They have a 24/7 helpline.
Resources on caregiving, Medicare, Social Security, and advocacy for adults 50 and older in Tennessee.
If your loved one is a veteran, they may qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits that help cover the costs of Assisted Living or Home Care.
Researched-based information on aging, health conditions, and caregiving from the National Institutes of Health.
State agency that advocates for older Tennesseans. Good starting point for understanding what programs and services are available.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do we provide transportation?
No, we are currently not providing transportation services. All participants will need to arrange transportation to and from our center. There are a few low-cost services available, such as Carta, Ride To Care, and others through TennCare.
Is there someone that is responsible for ADC?
Yes, we have dedicated, trained staff who assist all of our Adult Day clients. They are fingerprinted and extensively background-checked as well.
Meals, are they provided?
Yes, we provide all three meals as needed for the timeframe. Meals are developed by a Registered Dietitian and served hot from our dining room. Our food is very good and includes two drink options.
Can they go on external outings?
Our assisted living provides up to 1 external outing a week. Our Adult Day Program does not provide external outings due to licensure requirements.
What kind of activities are available?
We have a monthly activities calendar developed by an Activities professional with several daily activities to include, exercise, holiday parties, current events, axe-throwing, crafts, bowling, book club, etc.
What is the difference between Assisted Living and a nursing home?
This is the most common question we get, and it is a good one. Assisted Living is for people who need help with everyday tasks — bathing, dressing, taking medications — but who do not need round-the-clock medical care. It is private pay and state-licensed. A nursing home (skilled nursing facility) provides a higher level of medical care, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, and is typically paid for by Medicare or Medicaid. At Standifer Place, both are available on the same campus, so if your care needs change, they do not have to move to another location. They can stay within our existing operation, with familiar faces!
What services does Assistive Services at Standifer Place offer?
We offer four types of care: assisted living (licensed nursing care, medication management, meals, activities), independent living (all-inclusive apartments), adult day services (daytime supervision with overnight respite, CHOICES approved), and non-medical home care (bathing, meals, errands, companionship in your loved one’s home). All of these are available through a single organization on our campus.
How much does Assisted Living cost?
Assisted Living at Standifer Place accepts PACE, CHOICES, long-term care insurance, and self-pay. The cost depends on the apartment size, see Floor Plans and Pricing. We are happy to walk you through it all during a tour or phone call.
What is the TennCare CHOICES program?
CHOICES stands for Community Health Options and Integrated Care for the Elderly and Disabled in the State. It is Tennessee’s Medicaid program for long-term care. If your loved one qualifies, it can help pay for services like adult day services, non-medical home care, and assisted living. Our programs are CHOICES approved, and our team can help you figure out if your loved one is eligible or how to apply.
Do you offer respite care?
Yes. If you are a caregiver and you need a break — whether for a vacation, a medical procedure, or just to rest — your loved one can stay with us temporarily. They get the same meals, activities, and care as our full-time residents. Stays can be as short as one night or as long as several weeks.
What is included in Independent Living?
One monthly payment covers your apartment rental, all utilities (electric, water, gas), cable TV, and weekly housekeeping. Meals are available through an optional meal plan, or you can cook in your own kitchenette. There is no medical staff — Independent Living is for people who are self-sufficient but want to simplify their life and not deal with home maintenance.
Can my loved ones move between levels of care?
Yes, and this is one of the biggest reasons families choose Standifer Place. If someone starts in independent living and later needs assisted living, or if they need to transition to skilled nursing at The Health Center, it all happens on the same campus. No moving across town, no starting over with a new facility. The staff already knows your family.
What is the relationship between Assistive Services and The Health Center at Standifer Place?
Assistive Services at Standifer Place provides Assisted Living, Independent Living, Adult Day Services, and Non-Medical Home Care. The Health Center at Standifer Place is a skilled nursing facility on the same campus that provides Medicare and Medicaid-funded care for residents with more complex medical needs. Together, they offer a complete continuum of care — from Independent Living to Skilled Nursing — in one location.
Is your Assisted Living facility, Adult Day Program, Non-Medical Home Care licensed?
Yes, all of these are licensed by the State of Tennessee and meets all regulatory requirements for staffing, safety, and quality of care. We undergo regular inspections. Our Independent Living apartments do not require a license because they are designed for self-sufficient seniors.
How do I schedule a tour?
Call (423) 954-2845 to schedule a tour, or fill out the Schedule a Visit form on our website. We offer personalized tours and are happy to work around your schedule.
ADMISSIONS & GENERAL INFORMATION
The best way to know if a place is right for your family is to see it in person. Walk the campus, meet the staff, ask your questions, and get a feel for the community. We will show you everything — no pressure, no sales pitch.