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 Utah, assisted living centers, also known as assisted living facilities (ALFs), are regulated by the Utah Department of Health, specifically the Health Facility Licensing, Certification and Resident Assessment. These facilities are designed to provide a combination of housing, personalized supportive services, and health care designed to meet the needs of people who require assistance with the activities of daily living. Regulations for ALFs in Utah are focused on ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of residents. The facilities must comply with a range of standards that cover staffing, resident care, medication management, and the physical environment of the facility. Assisted living centers in Utah are not intended to provide the intensive medical and nursing care found in nursing homes, but they are equipped to offer a level of care that supports the independence of residents while ensuring their safety and well-being. Licensing requirements include background checks for staff, training requirements, and adherence to specific resident care policies. Additionally, these facilities must provide recreational and social activities to enhance the quality of life for their residents.