Benefits of a Residential Care Home

| Monday, January 9, 2012
By Janet Smytherton


Residential care homes are also known by other names. In fact, it can be different in different states. That is because the regulations that govern care facilities are operated at the state level. In many states they are called adult family homes, in other areas they may be referred to as personal care homes, adult foster homes, or group homes. No matter what they are called, they all provide care for seniors in a setting very much like a family home.

For residents who prefer not to live in a larger community setting and yet still require a level of assistance offered by a larger assisted living facility or a nursing home, this family setting is excellent. Help with medications, personal care such as bathing and dressing and assistance with activities of daily living are all offered in a residential care home.

Each home usually has between four and six seniors in residence. Some have as many as eight. In this setting, the resident is more likely to have much fewer caregivers than they would have if they were in a larger facility. The caregivers are able to give more personal service to each resident in this smaller family environment. In fact, caregivers often become very attached to the residents in their care over time.

Residential care homes sometimes specialize in a particular need, such as wound care, cancer patients, or Alzheimer's patients. Sometimes they specialize in residents of a particular ethnic or religious background, and provide religious, cultural and dietary offerings that hold special meaning for their residents.

The activities in a residential care home are often held in the living room of the home, making it easier for those with physical limitations to attend. In a larger assisted living facility, activities are generally held in large activity rooms and many residents may forget when they are scheduled or just not get around to attending. Even those residents who may choose not to participate in an activity are often drawn in just because they are in the general area of that activity. At a residential care home, it is easier for the caregivers to get the residents involved in daily tasks, such as folding laundry, baking cookies, setting the table or preparing a meal.

In some homes, transportation to doctor appointments, shopping, banking and local outings may be included. Because cost are different in different locations, there is a wide range of fees charged for residential care homes. Most often, the charges are quoted on a per month basis. The monthly charge typically includes all meals and snacks, medication management, utilities, housekeeping, activities and outings, laundry, and transportation. If the resident requires more or different care than what is included in the basic fee, there may be additional charges. A care assessment is usually done in order to determine the services desired and those that are required. After the care assessment is done, they will be able to advice as to what the total charge is. There are also some homes that will quote an all-inclusive rate, without increasing the fee when extra care is needed. When you ask about rates, be sure to ask if there are any additional charges based on the level of care.

The number of residential care homes has increased during the last few years. They will most likely continue to grow in numbers in the next decade as they are so popular with residents and their families.




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