Supported Living Services vs Personal Assistance: What’s the Difference?
Families often hear the terms Supported Living Services (SLS) and Personal Assistance (PA) when looking for care options. While both provide important support, they serve different purposes.
What Is Supported Living Services?
Supported Living Services focus on helping adults with developmental disabilities live more independently.
SLS may include:
Life skills support
Daily routines
Community access
Goal-setting
Home safety
Long-term independence support
What Is Personal Assistance?
Personal Assistance focuses more on hands-on help with daily personal care needs.
PA may include:
Bathing
Dressing
Grooming
Hygiene support
Mobility help
Meal assistance
The Main Difference
The easiest way to understand it is:
SLS = independence and life skills
PA = hands-on daily personal care
Final Thoughts
Some individuals benefit from one service, while others may benefit from both. The right option depends on the person’s needs, goals, and level of independence.
