Definition
Adult Family Homes (AFH) are residential homes licensed to provide personal care for up to six non-related individuals (commonly called residents). They provide room, board, laundry, supervision, and necessary help with activities of daily living, personal care, and limited social services.
History
Adult family homes have been around in many states for a long time; they are also known as Adult Care Homes, Adult Foster Homes, and Residential Care Homes. Although there are some differences in how these names are used, Adult Family Homes in Washington state are specifically licensed to care for frail seniors or developmentally disabled persons (DD).
Choice & Variety
Adult Family Homes come in as many colors as you can imagine, and offer one of the best long-term care options for our aging culture. Some are owned by registered or licensed nurses (RNs or LPNs), certified nursing assistants (CNAs or NA-Cs), while others are started by individuals who first care for a parent then decide to continue helping other seniors. The appeal for most is that a family setting offers residents a familiar, real home setting that is comfortable and secure. The staff-to-resident ratio is 1:6 at minimum, compared to a nursing home where 1 caregiver may routinely be assigned 10 to 14 residents, and sometimes more!
Levels of Care Offered
As long as state requirements are met (WAC 388-76), providers are free to offer as much or as little care as they feel comfortable. Consumers must inquire as to what type of care a provider offers and what care is not available, such as hospice, wound care or insulin-dependent clients to name a few. It’s not unusual for a provider to coordinate skilled oversight with Visiting Nurse Services, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, or Hospice Care providers. Mental Health Therapy can be also be brought into the home when indicated.
Licensing Requirements
Washington state has one of the most stringent licensing requirements in the nation ensuring that our seniors receive some of the best care available. Adult Family Home providers must be licensed by DSHS (Department of Social Health Services) and adhere to strict rules and regulations as described in WAC 388-76. DSHS issues one license per provider and per home. Licensed homes/providers are inspected by DSHS licensors on a yearly basis, and these inspections occur without prior notice – licensee must be in compliance at all times.
Do you want more information about our Adult Family Home? You can contact us through our hotline or send us a message online.