Common Terms
We have compiled this list of acronyms and terms you might encounter to help you understand and simplify the shorthand that is often used. It’s always acceptable and a good idea to ask questions if something doesn’t make sense to you!
Long Term Care Services
ADL
Activities of Daily Living, including bathing, grooming, feeding, toileting, dressing, mobility assistance
IADL
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, related primarily to independent living, include cooking, driving or use of public transportation, managing medication, housework and others
AID and ATTENDANCE
Common financial benefit for eligible Veterans to be used for care needs
LTC
long-term care, generally assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing
IL
independent living, no care, unlicensed, but may offer meals in common dining room, housekeeping, some transportation
AL
assisted living, for people needing assistance with ADLs, med management, includes meals, laundry, housekeeping, some transportation to appointments, planned activities and excursions
MC
memory care, services provided in assisted living with additional care and supervision for those with cognitive impairment, includes appropriate activities
CCRC
continuing care retirement community, may require a buy in, usually offers all levels of care through end of life
SNF
skilled nursing facility, for those requiring medical services as part of their care plan; also used for post acute rehabilitation
APS
Adult Protective Services
OMBUDSMEN
protects residents’ rights in assisted and memory care communities
Service Providers
CDP
certified dementia practitioner
CNA
certified nursing assistant
CSA
certified senior advisor
HHA
home health aide
LVN
licensed vocational nurse
LPN
licensed practical nurse
RN
registered nurse
NP
nurse practitioner
PCP
primary care provider
Medical
DX
medical shorthand for diagnosis
ALZ
Alzheimer’s Disease
PD
Parkinson’s Disease
FTL
Frontal Temporal Lobe Dementia
DLB
Dementia with Lewy Bodies
MCI
Mild Cognitive Impairment
COPD
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
CHF
congestive heart failure
DNR
Do not resuscitate
AD
Advanced Directive
POA
Power of Attorney (one for healthcare, and one for financial)
Cynthia and her team were helpful, professional and caring. She was a great resource for learning about different options, levels of care, and facilities. And now that my mother has been placed, she has remained high touch and showed concern about how my family settles into its new situation. I highly recommend Senior Care Authority.
