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 Maryland, assisted living centers are regulated by the Maryland Department of Health through the Office of Health Care Quality. These facilities are licensed and must comply with state regulations that cover a range of standards including staffing, resident care, medication management, and facility requirements. Assisted living programs in Maryland are designed to promote resident dignity, autonomy, independence, privacy, and freedom of choice while providing the necessary assistance with daily activities and health services. The level of care provided in these facilities can vary from minimal assistance to more intensive support, but it does not reach the level of care provided in a nursing home. Maryland's regulations ensure that residents receive individualized service plans that are regularly updated to meet their changing needs. Additionally, assisted living centers must provide certain disclosures to residents, such as services offered, fees, and residents' rights, to ensure transparency and informed decision-making.