Adult foster care homes are typically smaller than assisted living communities, which may be less intimidating for seniors prone to overstimulation. These residences also offer personalized care in a home-like setting that is usually less costly than other options.
Discussing this option with a senior loved one is important to ensure they are comfortable getting help in their daily routine. Before coming to a final decision, weigh the following advantages and disadvantages.
Medication Management
If you have a loved one who isn’t comfortable living alone but doesn’t need constant medical attention, adult foster care might be the right fit. This option, also known as domiciliary care, small group assisted living and elderly foster care, typically involves home-based settings with six or fewer residents who share a common kitchen, dining area and living room.
Unlike nursing homes and assisted living facilities, adult foster care homes typically don’t have staff available to provide around-the-clock care. However, they have a team on call and a physician on emergency retainer. Adult foster care Fall River is a fantastic option for senior citizens who want assistance with daily duties, including errand running, grocery buying, and support with bathing or grooming.
Medicare does not pay for adult foster care (although it might cover the cost of a hospital stay). Still, Medicaid, including Managed Care Medicaid programs like Directed Waivers, might pay for this type of housing.
Personal Care
Adult foster care residents live in a cozy, home-like environment, usually much smaller than nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Typically, adult foster care homes house six or fewer people. It allows the staff to focus on each resident’s needs and gives residents a more personalized experience than they might receive at a larger facility.
This type of care is a good option for seniors who may not need daily medical assistance but need help with their personal hygiene, daily activities and medication reminders. It can also be an excellent option for seniors whose family members cannot care for them at home.
Most adult foster care homes offer private or shared rooms, three daily meals and cleaning services, and transportation to and from appointments. They can also host visits from friends and family. Adult foster care homes are often less expensive than assisted living or nursing home care.
Costs
Most adult foster care homes charge a monthly or daily fee, including room and board, utilities, housekeeping, meals, activities, etc. It’s important to ask about what’s included and not included in the cost of living at a facility. You might also want to check with your long-term care insurance provider to see if they offer coverage for these costs.
The owners of adult foster care homes are typically the primary caregivers and will live in the same house as their residents. While state guidelines require someone to be onsite at all times, it’s unnecessary to be awake at all hours, like in assisted living communities.
Meals are usually prepared onsite; transportation may be available to run errands. Daily hygiene tasks, such as bathing and grooming, are often taken care of by staff members. These services are often less expensive than similar options, such as assisted living.
Socialization
Seniors who choose adult foster care can often maintain their independence while getting help. They can choose a private room and receive three meals daily, along with cleaning and laundry services. They can have their medications dispensed and managed by professionals, and they will get assistance with dressing, bathing, and mobility.
Their homes usually have fewer residents, but there are also larger facilities. Having the option of a large facility may be a better choice for seniors who enjoy being around other people. Families can visit their loved ones whenever they want, and social events often occur in the community.
It can be a good way to keep the person in touch with their friends and family and prevent loneliness and isolation that can lead to health problems. It is also much more affordable than assisted living or nursing home care.
