Adult family homes can be a good option
March 23, 2016
By: Doug Sheaffer
Email: sheafdf@dshs.wa.gov
I read what you said about Assisted Living, but what if I’m not quite that independent?
Assuming 24/7 skilled nursing isn’t needed, and the levels of care at Assisted Living won’t meet the need, Adult Family Homes (AFH) might be an option to consider.
An AFH is smaller and allows for more one-on-one time with each resident. Basically, they are homes that are licensed to provide care for adults who need some extra help getting through the day. Remember “family home”, and it’ll help to get a clear picture: It’s a home designed to assist between two and six people (plus the owner/operator); and as with our homes, each one has a unique personality and feel.
I noted they are “smaller”, and due to that (and again, being homes) they often don’t have a “facility” feel to them and can be less overwhelming for someone moving in.
Bedrooms may be shared, common rooms are available, as is 24/7 care and assistance. Nurse visits are also available should the need arise. Meal times, activities, or just spending time with others in conversation all contribute to the home atmosphere.
Most AFH’s accept Medicaid and private-pay, but it’s always a good idea to contact them and see how all that would play out. In fact, it’s always a good idea to check them out in every way. These folks are part of our communities, so talk to them. Talk to other people in the community, see if you can come by for a visit, compare with others and so on. Owners are always glad to answer questions, and if this could be home, ask away.
None of us would decide to go live somewhere sight unseen, and as with most things, the more information the better. If you or a family member consider this type setting a possibility, take the time to see if it’d be a good fit. Is it in the right location? How do the people living there like it? From food to company, all should be considered.
And if you are working with a family member or friend, please remember that the choice is theirs, so make it a conversation, not a lecture. None of us want someone else to help us by taking over our lives and choices.
So: Just who are these people who have AFH’s? In our communities, there are currently two that accept Medicaid (and as mentioned earlier, private-pay):
- Dolphin Cove, David Palmer 360 268 7135 Tokeland
- Circle of Life, Andrea Noonan 360 642 3026 Long Beach
If home is changing, and looks like a move to an AFH, give them a call. Remember: Home is where you live. Make it the best choice you can.
Information & Assistance
Long Beach: 642 3634/888 571 6558 Raymond: 942 2177/888 571 6557