Updates to California state regulations related to resident evaluations signal big changes coming for assisted living providers starting Jan. 1, but senior living groups say that the new regulations will support person-centered care.
The regulatory changes make clear that residential care facilities for the elderly must perform reappraisals when residents experience “significant” changes in condition, and at least once every 12 months. Under the updated regulations, a significant change is defined as one that affects a resident’s physical, cognitive, behavioral or functional condition and requires a change of services. Examples include changes from trauma, illness or injury, changes in cognitive abilities or decision-making capacity, and behavioral expressions that may cause harm to the resident or others.
The reappraisal process also requires discussions with staff members and the affected resident and family members, and it now includes additional documentation and communication requirements.
California senior living associations said that the updates support person-centered care, allowing residents to “age in place in the least restrictive environment that they call home,” according to Meredith Chillemi, LeadingAge California vice president of regulatory affairs.
LeadingAge California is partnering with the state Department of Social Services to educate its members on the updates, including via an implementation guide, webinars and a document with answers to frequently asked questions.
The California Assisted Living Association said that the changes provide additional clarity and meaning to the reappraisal process.
“The goal of the change is a meaningful, person-centered evaluation that includes behavioral expressions that may occur with cognitive decline,” CALA President and CEO Sally Michael told McKnight’s Senior Living. “CALA has been providing members with updates on these changes and will continue to support members throughout the implementation.
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Source: McKnights Seniorliving
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