When exploring senior living options in Florida, you may hear the term “1823 Assessment.” If you’re not familiar with it, don’t worry—many families aren’t. While it may sound like just another piece of paperwork, this assessment plays an important role in ensuring seniors receive the care they need in an assisted living facility.
Here’s what you should know.
What Is the 1823 Assessment?
The 1823 Assessment (also called Form AHCA 1823) is a medical evaluation completed by a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse before a senior moves into an assisted living facility in Florida.
The purpose of the assessment is to determine:
- The senior’s current medical conditions
- Physical abilities and limitations
- Cognitive status
- Medication needs
- Ability to perform daily activities
- Any special care requirements
This information helps ensure the assisted living community can safely meet the resident’s needs.
Why Is It Required?
Every assisted living community is licensed to provide certain levels of care. The 1823 Assessment helps determine whether the community is the right fit for the individual.
It also allows the care team to:
- Develop a personalized care plan
- Understand assistance needed with bathing, dressing, mobility, and medications
- Coordinate healthcare services
- Identify any safety concerns before move-in
Most importantly, it helps families feel confident that their loved one will receive the appropriate level of support.
What Does the Assessment Include?
The healthcare provider will evaluate several areas, including:
Medical History
Current diagnoses, chronic conditions, surgeries, allergies, and overall health.
Medications
A review of prescription medications, dosages, and medication management needs.
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
The provider assesses whether the senior needs assistance with:
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Grooming
- Toileting
- Eating
- Walking or transferring
Cognitive Function
The assessment looks for signs of:
- Memory loss
- Dementia
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Confusion or impaired decision-making
Mobility
Can the individual:
- Walk independently?
- Use a walker or wheelchair?
- Transfer safely?
- Navigate stairs?
Continence
The provider documents whether assistance is needed with bladder or bowel management.
When Is the 1823 Assessment Needed?
A completed assessment is generally required:
- Before moving into an assisted living facility
- When there has been a significant change in health
- During periodic updates if requested by the community
Because health needs can change over time, the assessment may need to be updated to ensure the care plan remains accurate.
How Families Can Prepare
To make the appointment go smoothly, bring:
- A list of current medications
- Medical history
- Insurance information
- Contact information for healthcare providers
- Any recent hospital discharge paperwork
- Questions about care needs or concerns
Being prepared helps the provider complete a thorough and accurate evaluation.
The Assessment Is About Safety—Not Passing or Failing
Many families worry that the assessment is some kind of “test.” It isn’t.
There is no passing or failing. Instead, it’s designed to match a senior with the level of care that best supports their health, independence, and quality of life.
Sometimes the assessment confirms that assisted living is the perfect fit. Other times, it may indicate that a different level of care—such as memory care or skilled nursing—would better meet the individual’s needs.
How Sunways Can Help
The senior living process can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re hearing new terms like the 1823 Assessment for the first time.
At Sunways, we help families understand every step of the journey—from scheduling assessments and gathering paperwork to touring communities and finding the right fit for your loved one.
You don’t have to navigate the process alone. Our experienced team is here to answer your questions, explain what to expect, and advocate for your family’s needs so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
