- Legal EditorHenry Dahut, J.D.
Henry Dahut, J.D.
Attorney - Legal Publisher - Educator
Henry Dahut is a licensed California trial attorney. Over the course of his 30-plus years practicing law, Henry has represented and counseled countless clients in legal trouble.
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Board And Care – Assisted Living
What’s the difference between a Board and Care and assisted living?
Board and Care facilities, sometimes called residential care facilities, are usually small private facilities that offer older adults the choice between private and shared rooms. Residents receive personal care and meals but do not provide medical care.
Assisted living facilities focus on helping residents maintain independence. Assisted living offers a combination of housing, meals, supportive services, and primary health care.
About This Article
This article will help provide clarity, reassurance, and practical guidance as you explore the differences between Board and Care Homes and Assisted Living Facilities. By the end of this article, you’ll feel more equipped to make a decision that honors your loved one’s needs while supporting your family’s peace of mind.
The difference between Board and Care and Assisted Living
Both Board and Care Homes and Assisted Living Facilities care for seniors who need help with daily living, but they differ in size, atmosphere, and services.
Here’s a quick summary of the differences:
Board and Care Homes
These are small residential care facilities designed to feel like a home.
- Typical Setup: Converted single-family homes with 6-10 residents.
- Atmosphere: Quiet and personal.
- Services Provided: Help with dressing, bathing, meal preparation, and medication management.
- Best For: Seniors who like a quiet environment or need more one-on-one attention.
Board And Care Costs Vary by State
The federal government does not heavily regulate assisted living facilities. Designated state agencies usually do this. State regulations of board and care facilities vary considerably, and costs depend on the services provided.
For example, a full-service Board and Care can cost as much as $3,000 to $5,000month for a private room, depending on where you live.
Statistic: Socialization Benefits: A study by the National Institute on Aging found that regular social interaction can reduce the risk of depression by 20% in older adults.
(Above Image) Illustrates a clean and contemporary styled social area common among high-end Assisted Living Facilities.
Assisted Living Facilities
Larger, more structured communities that balance independence with assistance.
- Typical Setup: Apartment-style living, often with communal dining and activities.
- Atmosphere: Busy, with lots of social opportunities.
- Services Provided: Assistance with daily activities, recreational programming, and some medical oversight.
- Best For: Seniors who like socializing and need moderate assistance, but not 24/7 care.
Key Point: Board and Care might be the way to go if your loved one likes small, quiet settings. Assisted Living could be the better choice if they like socializing and structured activities.
Assisted Living Arrangements Vary from State to State
Depending on the state, some assisted living residents, depending on their medical status, can live in their own apartments or rooms and share common areas.
Residents have access to many services, including:
- On-site staff and 24-hour supervision
- Assistance with personal care
- Help with medications
- Three meals a day
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Planned social and recreational activities.
Common Features Of Board & Care and Assisted Living
- Board and Care facilities provide help with activities of daily living. Most people can help with personal care, like taking medicine, using eye drops, getting to appointments, or preparing meals.
- Residents may choose which services they receive from the facility, such as help with bathing, dressing, eating, or medication reminders.
- Residents often live in their rooms or apartments within a building or group of buildings and frequently have their meals together.
- Social and recreational activities are usually provided. Some of these facilities have health services on site. Most of them do not.
- Not all assisted living facilities provide the same services. Assisted living facilities may or may not offer services specifically designed for the health needs of all residents. In many cases, assisted living residents pay a regular monthly rent and then pay additional fees for services they may require.
How Is Independent Living Different From Assisted Living?
Independent living is very different from assisted living:
- Independent living provides older adults with a carefree lifestyle. It caters to those who want to enjoy retirement with ease and convenience.
- Senior independent living usually provides various leisure services, including prepared dining, transportation, social events, and housekeeping.
- Unlike assisted living, independent adult living does not provide personal care for residents, such as bathing or going to the toilet.
- Independent living is a lifestyle choice for older adults who wish to remain active, in shape, and, most importantly, live independently.
- Some services assist people in deciding which form of senior living is right for them. However, these decisions should be guided by the elder’s physician and the family.
Board & Care and Assistant Living Locators
Most locator and referral services do not charge a fee for their services. Instead, their fee is generally paid by the facility that receives the placement and has paid for the advertising to be on its network.
If you’re looking for the right board and care facility for your loved one, one respected and established referral service is A Place for Mom.
Statistic: Aging Population Growth: By 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will be 65 or older, underscoring the growing need for senior living options.
Financial Realities: What to Expect
Caring for a loved one is priceless, but the financial cost can be steep.
Here’s what you need to know about rent and costs between Board and Care and Assisted Living Facilities:
What is the monthly rent?
- Board and Care Homes: $2,500-$4,500/month.
- Assisted Living Facilities:$4,000-$7,500/month.
What’s included in the monthly rent?
- Board and Care: Meals, laundry, housekeeping, and basic personal care.
- Assisted Living: These services plus amenities like fitness centers, transportation, and recreational programming.
What are my payment Options?
- Private Pay: Savings, retirement accounts, or family contributions.
- Long-Term Care Insurance: Check if your loved one has a policy that covers these services.
- Medicaid: Available in some facilities, but eligibility varies by state.
- Veterans Benefits: Programs like Aid and Attendance can help eligible veterans offset costs.
Difference Between Medicare and Medicaid:
- Medicare: A federal program only primarily for individuals aged 65 and older that covers hospital and medical insurance. Learn how to qualify for Medicare.
- Medicaid: Is both a state and federal program that provides additional coverage, especially for low-income individuals and those needing long-term care.
Financial Tip
Legally Protecting Your Loved One
Moving into a care facility has legal and regulatory implications:
- Read the Fine Print: Look for fees, care restrictions, and transition policies if more care is needed.
- Resident Rights: Make sure the facility respects residents’ rights, privacy, autonomy, and access to medical care.
- Regulatory Oversight: Both Board and Care Homes and Assisted Living Facilities are regulated, but these regulations vary by state. Check inspection reports and licensing.
Legal Tip
If You’re The Caregiver
Be sure to care for your emotional well-being. Practicing self-compassion is an essential part of self-care to maintain your well-being.
These decisions aren’t just about logistics – they’re about managing the emotional impact on you as a caregiver or family member.
Caregiver and Wellness Advice
- Allow Yourself to Grieve: Moving a loved one into care can feel like a loss, even if it’s the right decision. Give yourself space to process the needs of your loved one.
- Lean on Others: Talk to friends, join a caregiver support group, or talk to a counselor. You don’t have to do this alone.
- Appreciate The Small Wins: Every good thing – finding a safe, welcoming place or seeing your loved one adjust – is worth acknowledging.
Make an Action Plan:
Choosing the best possible care facility for your loved one requires planning:
Step 1: Assess Your Loved One’s Needs
- Physical Considerations: Mobility, medical conditions, daily care needs.
- Emotional Needs: Socializing, privacy, activity level.
- Financial Considerations: Budget constraints, funding options.
Step 2: Research and Visit
- Visit at least three facilities to compare environments, services, and costs.
- Ask lots of questions. See our list of questions to ask at the bottom of the article.
Step 3: Involve Your Loved One
- Include the elder in discussions to ensure their preferences and concerns are addressed.
Step 4: Make a Decision and Plan the Move
- Finalize your choice, manage the logistics, and prepare your loved one for the transition with open communication and support.
Reality Check: You’re Not Alone
It’s expected to be uncertain or second-guess yourself. Transitioning to any senior care takes time for both you and your loved one.
Remember:
- Adjustment periods are normal. It may take weeks or months for everyone to get into the new rhythm.
- There’s no “perfect” option, but with care and diligence, you can find the best fit for your family’s unique needs.
People Also Ask
How do I know which option is best for my loved one?
Assess their physical, emotional, and financial needs. Visiting multiple facilities can help you make an informed choice.
Can Medicaid help cover the costs of senior care?
Medicaid coverage varies by state and depends on the facility type. Check eligibility requirements in your area.
What if my loved one needs more care in the future?
Choose a facility with flexible care options that can adapt to changing needs, such as transitioning to memory or skilled nursing care.
Are Board and Care homes regulated?
Yes, but regulations vary by state. Review inspection reports and ensure the facility is licensed.
Three Common Fears About Senior Care Options
Fear #1: I’m worried my loved one won’t like the new place.
Fact: Adjustment periods are normal, and with the support from staff and family we can help them feel at home.
Fear #2: We are on a tight budget, and I’m worried that costs and fees can get out of hand and be too expensive for us to cover.
Fact: Long-term care insurance, Medicaid, and Veteran’s benefits can help offset costs, and financial planning can make care manageable. Sometimes frugality can even lead to economic happiness.
Fear #3: I heard that facilities don’t care about their residents – it’s all a big show.
Fact: State regulations and accreditation standards must be complied with, and most senior care facilities are subject to inspection.
Questions To Ask When Touring The Facility
- How many residents live here, and what is the staff-to-resident ratio at this location?
- What types of health care services are provided at this location?
- What are the qualifications of the staff?
- Are all staff members trained in first aid and CPR?
- What type of safety monitoring measures are in place?
- Are residents allowed to personalize their rooms and bring personal belongings?
- What activities and social programs are offered?
- Do you provide medical transport for doctor office visits?
- What type of meal plans do you offer residents?
- Can you itemize all fees and costs and what services are included?
- What are your guest policies and visitation hours?
- What procedures are in place for handling medical emergencies or changes in health?
- How are families kept informed, and how often do you update the families on a resident’s health status and well-being?
Conclusion: Choosing with Compassion
Choosing a senior care facility can be emotionally challenging, but it’s a testament to how much you love your aging family member.
Whether you choose a Board and Care Home, an Assisted Living Facility, or even a skilled nursing facility, what matters most is that your loved one feels safe, heard, and supported.
You’re not alone in this process. Community resources, elder care professionals, and support groups are here to help you every step of the way.
Watch the following video related to assisted living costs and what you need to know from SeniorLiving.org:
References and Sources
SLM | Tips on Choosing Assisted Care Homes.
5 Key Benefits of Assisted Living.
Senior Care Options | Vermont Estate Planning Attorneys.
