Assisted living facilities provide relatively independent seniors with assistance and limited healthcare services in a homelike atmosphere. Assisted living services include twenty-four hour protective oversight, food, shelter and a range of services that promote the quality of life of the individual. The philosophy of assisted living emphasizes the right of the individual to choose the setting for care and services. Assisted living customers share the risks and responsibilities for their activities and well-being with a staff geared toward helping them enjoy the freedom and independence of private living. Assisted living facilities are licensed by state governments and can be known by several different names including residential care, board and care, congregate care and personal care. Assisted living is not a substitute, but rather a compliment to nursing facility care.