As the population ages and the need for elder care grows, board and caring homes have become a popular choice for seniors needing help with daily living. Board and care facilities, residential homes, group houses, or adult families provide a unique alternative to larger assisted-living facilities and nursing homes. These smaller, family-like settings provide personalized support and a comfortable lifestyle for seniors who require assistance but prefer a more intimate atmosphere. This post explores the many types of board and care homes and their benefits for residents and their families.
What are Board and Care Homes?
Board and Care homes are residential environments that offer supportive services and provide care to small groups of residents. The typical range is from 3 to 10 people. These homes usually are located in regular residential areas, in modified private residences. Each resident will have their own semi-private or private room. There is also a common area for socializing, dining, and recreational activities.
The term “board & care” refers to the dual nature of the services. “Board,” also known as room and care, includes the services of meals, lodging, and housekeeping. “Care services” include assisting with everyday activities like bathing or dressing. They also include medication management and other individualized care services.
Board and Care Homes Come In Many Different Types
Many types of care and board homes cater to different requirements and preferences. There are two main types:
a. Residential Care homes: These traditional board-and-care homes offer personalized care in a residential setting. These are licensed and regulated state-wide, ensuring they meet safety, cleanliness, care, and more standards.
b. Memory Care: These homes provide specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s Disease, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. Staff members at memory care homes undergo additional training that helps them to better understand residents with memory impairment and their unique needs.
c. Adult Family Homes: These homes are run and owned by families that live on-site and provide care to the residents. These homes have a more familial and intimate atmosphere, as the owners are the caregivers.
d. Assisted Living Homes: Some board and care homes operate as Assisted Living homes. These provide a higher standard of care and assistance than residential homes. They might offer a wider range of medical services and a larger staff-to-resident ratio.
e. Hospice care homes: hospice care homes are board-and-care homes that specialize in end-of-life care for terminally-ill people. These homes aim to provide the residents with emotional and physical support and pain management.
Board and Care Homes
A range of features makes the board and care homes an attractive option for seniors in need. Some common characteristics include:
a. Warm Home-like Environment: Board-and-care homes are designed to promote comfort and familiarity by creating a warm and homely atmosphere. The smaller sizes of these homes contribute to a more personal and family-oriented environment.
b. Personalized Care: Residents in board homes and care homes get personalized care tailored to their preferences and needs. Care plans will be developed based on assessments of each individual’s health, ability, and requirement.
c. Nutritious Food: In board and care homes, residents receive balanced, nutritious meals prepared by staff. Special dietary requirements are catered to.
