Regulations for Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Independent Living: A State-by-State Guide

Assisted living, memory care, and independent living communities are generally regulated by state governments. This means that rules and operation requirements vary by state and by the type of care a community provides.

Learn more about how senior living communities are regulated so you can make informed care decisions.

How is assisted living regulated?

In most cases, a state’s health or social services agency licenses and sets regulation requirements for assisted living. This same agency typically investigates complaints related to resident care, safety, and rights.

Once a community is licensed, it may be inspected regularly to assess compliance with state laws. In regulated states, you may be able to check a community’s license status, inspection report history, and filed complaints by contacting the state department in charge of licensing. Many states also offer online tools that enable consumers to look up this detailed information about regulated care providers.

How is memory care regulated?

Memory care is a specialized form of senior living that supports residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. It may be provided in standalone communities or as part of assisted living communities.

In some regulated states, communities offering memory care must meet certain requirements beyond standard assisted living regulations — such as enhanced safety features and specialized staff training. However, specific regulations and standards for memory care vary by state.

How is independent living regulated?

Independent living communities aren’t typically licensed or regulated in the same way as assisted living and memory care communities. However, these communities must often meet state and city requirements, including building codes, fire safety regulations, and tenant rights laws that protect residents and renters.

Why do licensure and inspection reports matter to families?

State regulations — and a community’s track record with inspections and licensing — offer important insights into safety and quality of care in senior living communities.

Download the Guide to Senior Living Licensure and Inspection Reports to learn what to look for in inspection reports and what questions to ask when touring communities. This resource explains how to use state licensure and inspection information to evaluate a community’s compliance, care standards, and responsiveness to issues.

Explore senior living regulations by state

Use the links below to find more detailed information on how your state regulates assisted living communities.