Small Assisted Living Homes commonly referred to as Personal Care Homes or Residential Group Homes are on the rise. This is often a great option to a skilled nursing center or nursing home facility.
These homes are usually licensed as an Assisted Living Facility however the rules vary by state so check with your state to see how these homes are licensed and regulated in your state.
It is literally a home that has been built or converted to care for from 6 to 15 residents with round the clock care in a homey environment. Just like your home there is a kitchen, living area bedrooms and bathrooms. The bathrooms will be handicapped accessible of course. The caregivers will take care of all the needs of their residents.
The benefits:
- Personal Care homes have a 3 or 4 to 1 caregiver to resident ratio unlike a nursing home that has an 8 to 1 ratio.
- It is a small environment so if a resident needs assistance they will be noticed and attended to right away.
- Meals are usually cooked on site from scratch with fresh ingredients. Residents tastes and requests are honored. They are treated like family.
- The cost is often half of what you would pay in a skilled nursing center
- Many homes can handle a high level of care, feeding tubes etc.
- Hospice is able to attend residents as needed.
- Physical Therapy can often be brought in however it may be limited due to the space.
The Downsides:
- For those who are still cognitively alert they may find it hard to find a place where there are enough people to have a decent conversation with. Usually most of the residents have some degree of dementia.
- There may not be as many opportunities for activities in a small environment.
- In most states medicaid does not pay for this option.
- Homes vary on the level of care they can offer. Know what care your loved one needs and discuss these needs before moving. Be honest with the home about your loved ones needs.
Need help finding the right place for someone you care about?
Contact Kathryn @ 281-827-7090 or email
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