Elder Care Housing Options

There are many housing options for those who need support services to help them with daily living activities. Assisted living facilities do not offer the same level of continuous nursing care that a nursing home offers.

Assisted living facilities vary, but in many the people who live in them have their own private apartment and share a common area that is used for socializing with fellow residents.

Understanding the different names for elderly housing options:

Group housing for older adults can have various names depending on which state they are located and how they are licensed. Examples include:

• Adult Foster Care Homes

An adult foster care home provides room, board and in-home support services in a family setting. Generally, an adult foster care home provides more in-home support services than a board and care home. These homes may meet the needs of adults who require periodic or regular assistance with activities of daily living. Some adult foster care homes may offer more complex care if the staff has experience and is trained to provide it. In some cases, visiting nurses provide the necessary assistance.

• Adult Care Facilities

Adult care facilities provide room, board and in-home support services to six or more adults who are not related to the operator. Services for residents may be similar to a board and care home or an adult foster care home. Adult care facilities generally have more residents. They are therefore less likely to resemble family life. Adult care facilities may also be called congregate housing. These facilities are available for older adults who are no longer able or willing to live completely independently. Generally, residents live in a private apartment and are capable of getting to the communal dining area independently. They usually receive help with grocery shopping, meal preparation and housework.

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