10 Tips for Choosing Assisted Living

Are you considering assisted living for a loved one? Have you thought about an adult foster care home? Here are the top ten things to consider when choosing adult foster care:

1) Is the home in disrepair, shabby or dirty?

2) Is there a good selection of food options?

3) Are personal care products, such as soap and shampoo, provided?

4) Are there set bedtimes and rise times?

5) Is there a television provided?

6) Are pets allowed?

7) Is smoking allowed? If so, what areas?

8) Is any transportation provided to appointments?

9) Have the employees passed a background check?

10) Is the home's license up to date?

Adult foster care homes are licensed private homes in residential neighborhoods. These homes are allowed a maximum of five residents so it provides a nice family feeling.

Adult foster care homes are operated by either the owner living at the home or a resident manager living on-site. As a rule things tend to run smoother if the owner lives at the home.

It is also a good idea to talk to the caregivers employed at the home. You should be able to tell after a few minutes of conversation and a little observation if the caregiver is concerned about the quality of care they give.

The monthly cost of an adult foster care home depends on the level of assistance required by the resident. Base fee for minimal care is about $1800 per month. Depending on the circumstances, financial aid is available at your local county human services office.

These foster care homes must be licensed by the state every year. They are subject to inspections by the state at any time, unannounced. A list of the foster care homes in your area should be available at your local senior services office.

Adult foster care homes are a terrific alternative to the institutional rest homes. The cost is less, too.