Board and Care Homes

Adult care homes can be small homes with as few as six residents all the way up to small apartment-type buildings with as many as 100 residents. Senior board and care homes are assisted living facilities on a smaller scale in private home-like settings. These smaller elder care homes generally do not offer Alzheimer’s or dementia care services.

Caring for older adults in a private home setting was the beginning of the assisted living industry and the origination of board and care homes. These homes maintain a more intimate atmosphere, with communal meals and a central meeting area. Senior care homes encourage independence as much as possible, but do provide daily assistance, housekeeping, meal preparation and laundry services.

Residents of Board and Care Homes

Board and care homes are for seniors who are unable to maintain their own home and need some assistance with daily tasks of cooking, dressing, bathing and other needs. The home allows them a home-like atmosphere with around-the-clock care available. There are both private or shared rooms and bathrooms available. The idea is to give a home-like setting for older adults who may not be able to or want to maintain their own homes for reasons of health, income or companionship.

Services of Board and Care Homes

Board and care homes have non-medical staff, but may provide help with monitoring the administration of medication. These homes are for seniors who do not need the skilled nursing available in nursing homes or the do not want the more institutional setting of larger assisted living facilities. The focus of board and care homes is the companionship from both caregivers and housemates.

Services available at board and care homes include preparation and serving of meals, help with bathing and other bathroom needs and help with dressing. Caregivers may also help make and transport residents to medical appointments. Caregivers also help maintain the home and do laundry for the residents. Daily activities are provided and sometimes daytrips are provided for more active residents.

Listings and information about board and care homes can be found online. Be sure to choose a licensed home and check with the better business bureau or other agencies for their history in the community.