Board and Care Homes – a Great Option for Seniors

You’ve likely encountered various senior living options when searching for senior care. Independent living, memory care, and assisted living facilities are the most common care services available to seniors and their families. But they aren’t the only options. A little-known alternative called board and care homes can be the perfect choice for those who don’t feel that the traditional options fit their preferences.

A board and care home is a good option for seniors who prefer to live in a smaller setting. These facilities are in residential neighborhoods that have been outfitted and staffed for a small group of seniors to live in a family-like setting with some assisted living services. 

Board and care homes are known by many different names depending on where they are located. In some states, they are most commonly referred to as board and care facilities, group homes, or residential care homes. In California and other states, “board and care homes” is the most commonly used terminology.

What’s Included In Board and Care Homes

Board and care homes are similar to assisted living communities. They are meant for seniors who need some assistance with activities of daily living but do not require skilled nursing services. Typically, all three meals and snacks are included in the cost of rent, and most homes also include cleaning and laundry services. Caregivers are on standby to assist with activities like eating, medication management, toileting, and personal grooming.

Licensing requirements vary by state. Your local CarePatrol representative can help you find a reputable board and care home that meets your loved one’s needs.

Is a “Board & Care Home” a Good Alternative to Other Senior Housing Options?

When looking at alternatives to nursing homes, you must consider how much medical care or medication management your family member will need. For example, if a senior has dementia, then a memory care community is likely their best option.

So while board and care homes shouldn’t be viewed as an alternative to a memory care facility, they can be a great alternative to an assisted living facility as both communities commonly offer similar features.

Board & Care Home vs. Assisted Living Community

Though there is no standard definition for board and care homes throughout the United States, there are three main differences between them and assisted living communities. Assisted living communities are more well-known than board and care homes because they house more residents – often 50 to 200 or more. They also have robust activity programs and typically serve food in a main dining room.

In California, board and care homes are senior living facilities licensed to care for six to 20 residents who need some assistance but do not require ongoing skilled nursing care. Outside of California, the requirements and terminology do change a little.

So keep that in mind if you live out of California or are helping a senior loved one living in another state. Residential care homes, group homes, and personal care homes all refer to essentially the same thing.

An Alternative to Assisted Living

Board and care homes are a great option for seniors who are transitioning from independent living to long-term care. While researching options available in your area, make sure any board and care homes you look at meet the following criteria:

• It has a cozy environment that feels more like a home than an institution.
• It has adequate staffing so that all residents get plenty of attention.
• Residents can relax and spend the day how they choose.

Now, board and care homes are not the best options for all seniors. It’s important that you consider assisted living facilities as an option as well.

How Does Assisted Living Differ

• Assisted Living options have more amenities and planned recreational activities.
• Board and care homes typically have shared kitchen and living spaces, whereas some assisted living residents have their own full apartment or attached kitchenette.
• The smaller population at board and care homes can make it more difficult for seniors to find friends.

Get Help Choosing a Board and Care Home from a Local Senior Care Advisor

No matter what type of assistance your loved one needs, your local CarePatrol representative can help you find the perfect fit. Set up a time to talk with us if you have questions about board and care homes, assisted living, or any other concerns.

With locations in all 50 states, CarePatrol has a senior care advisor near you! We will create personalized recommendations for your loved one based on their unique needs and preferences and can help you navigate every step of the journey. Best of all, we offer our services at no cost to you. Find your local CarePatrol to get started today!