The State of The States
As you read about different types of residential care options for seniors, you may notice that facilities that seem similar are sometimes classified differently. Since regulation is the responsibility of the state in which the facility is located, each state has its own laws and regulations governing each type of facility. Each state defines what constitutes a board and care within its boundaries. With some states having no differentiation between the terms "board and care" and "assisted living."
Who Chooses Board and Care or Adult Foster Care Options?
Aside from the criteria of being ambulatory and continent, a typical board and care/adult foster care resident is someone with health problems that are not severe who does not need or want to be in a nursing home. For this person living alone with home care is not an option or is not appealing. The resident usually is unmarried or widowed and lives on a limited income, precluding more costly living arrangements, perhaps receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI). In addition to housekeeping services (laundry and cleaning), the resident may require some personal care assistance such as help with grooming and medication management. The typical resident generally spends a great deal of time at home and welcomes the opportunity for social interaction with other residents or the host family.