Also known as board and care homes, group homes, or adult foster care, adult care homes are private residences that provide housing, personal care services and supervision for a limited number of elderly residents (usually no more than 8), in a home-like setting. These homes are located in residential neighborhoods. Licensing, inspections, and standards of operation vary by state.
Deeper dive
According to the Multnomah County, Oregon Department of County Human Services, generally, adult care homes offer 24 hour care and services including:
● Assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, walking, eating, and toileting
● Medication management
● Meals
● Housekeeping and laundry service
● Arrangement of transportation to appointments and other activities
AFH may be run by a family, single person, or business partners. The AFH may also hire other employees. Some AFHs allow pets. In some homes, multiple languages are spoken.
Adult care homes are single-family homes with shared living spaces, such as living and dining rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. They may offer fewer services and amenities than larger assisted living communities. Residents may have their own room or share a bedroom and bathroom.
Depending on state guidelines, staff may or may not help with medication. There are no national guidelines for adult care homes; they are subject to state-level licensing and requirements. Many states use the licensing standard of a facility that “provides personal care, supervision, and protection” of unrelated people for compensation. Common operating requirements include:
● Satisfactorily passing a criminal background check for caregivers
● The physical home passing multi-tenant occupancy requirements
● Satisfactory health inspection
● Plan of operation
● Emergency evacuation plan
● Mandatory caregiver training and/or certification (only in some states)
This 2018 article and PBS story look at whether these homes might be a good option for some older adults compared with larger assisted living facilities or other senior care.