What is a requirement for residential units in terms of security in assisted living facilities?

In assisted living facilities, a key requirement for residential units is that they must be lockable by occupants. This requirement is established to ensure that residents have personal privacy and control over their living spaces. When residents can lock their units, it promotes their sense of security and autonomy, which is fundamental to their well-being and dignity.

Allowing occupants to lock their doors provides them with an essential level of safety and comfort, as it protects their personal belongings and creates a private environment that they can retreat to whenever they choose. This autonomy is particularly important in a setting where residents may be receiving various levels of care and assistance, as it empowers them to maintain some control over their personal lives.

In contrast, having units locked only by staff would not afford residents the same level of autonomy and privacy. Open units or those without locks would not adequately safeguard the occupants' rights to personal space and security; such arrangements could also lead to a lack of trust in the facility's ability to provide a secure environment. Thus, enabling residents to lock their own units is a key aspect in promoting both their safety and quality of life in assisted living settings.