An assisted living center is a residential living and medical care facility for people who may need help with daily needs such as bathing, grooming, dressing, laundry, housekeeping, and food preparation—and who may need some medical care or assistance with medication management—but not the degree of medical care provided by a nursing home. Assisted living centers are designed for senior citizens who are no longer capable of living alone but who want to enjoy some independence and the social aspects of group dining, activities, and outings to local places and events.

In Alabama, assisted living centers are regulated by the Alabama Department of Public Health, Bureau of Health Provider Standards. These facilities are designed to provide a combination of housing, personal care services, and healthcare designed to respond to individuals who need assistance with normal daily activities in a way that promotes maximum independence. Assisted living facilities in Alabama must be licensed and comply with regulations that cover staffing, resident care, dietary services, and medication management. They are not intended to provide the intensive medical and nursing care that is available in a nursing home. The state has specific requirements for staff training, resident assessment, and care planning to ensure the well-being and safety of residents. Additionally, these facilities must adhere to building codes and fire safety standards. It's important for individuals considering an assisted living facility to review the specific services and amenities offered by the facility, as well as their licensing status and inspection results, which are available through the Alabama Department of Public Health.