Residential Care Homes
What is a Residential Care Home?
Residential care homes—sometimes called board and care homes, or group homes—offer a more intimate alternative to large assisted living or nursing facilities. These homes are typically located in residential neighborhoods and care for a small number of residents, usually in a cozy, family-like setting.
They provide help with daily living tasks, personal care, medication support, and meals—all in a place that feels more like home than a medical facility. For families looking for a quieter, more personalized care option, residential care homes can be a comforting solution.
Why Families Choose Residential Care
Residential care homes—sometimes called board and care homes, or group homes—offer a more intimate alternative to large assisted living or nursing facilities. These homes are typically located in residential neighborhoods and care for a small number of residents, usually in a cozy, family-like setting.
They provide 24-hour staffing help with daily living tasks, personal care, medication support, and meals—all in a place that feels more like home than a medical facility. For families looking for a quieter, more personalized care option, residential care homes can be a comforting solution.
Key Features of Residential Care Homes
Small, Home-Like Setting
Usually housing 6 or fewer residents, these homes offer a quiet, less institutional feel that many families find comforting.
24/7 Support and Supervision
Caregivers are available around the clock to provide help with personal needs, ensuring residents are safe and well-attended to.
Personalized Care
With fewer residents, care is tailored to individual routines, preferences, and health needs.
Homemade Meals and Daily Assistance
Residents enjoy home-cooked meals and receive help with daily activities like dressing, grooming, and medication.
State Licensing and Safety Standards
These homes are regulated by state agencies and must meet specific requirements for training, cleanliness, and resident safety.
Cost of Residential Care
Residential care homes are often a more affordable option than assisted living or nursing homes, especially for families paying out of pocket. Costs can vary based on the level of care provided, the location, and the services included—such as meals, personal care, medication management and transportation.
Most residential care homes are privately owned and operated, offering either private or shared rooms in a home-like setting. While these homes are typically paid for privately, some families may qualify for financial assistance through Medicaid (depending on the state), long-term care insurance, or veterans’ benefits.
Benefits of Residential Care
Residential care homes offer many benefits that make them a practical and compassionate choice for families, including:
- A calm, less clinical environment
- More personalized attention and companionship
- Affordable pricing compared to larger facilities
- Medication management and healthcare coordination
- Assistance with personal care and daily routines
- A sense of familiarity, especially for those who are overwhelmed by larger settings
- Social connection in a small, supportive group
Frequently Asked Questions About Residential Care Homes
What is a residential care home and what services are included?
A residential care home—also known as a board and care home—is a small, home-like setting where older
adults receive personalized support with daily activities. These homes typically care for a small number of
residents, creating a quieter, more intimate environment compared to larger communities.
Services often include assistance with bathing, dressing, medication management, meals, housekeeping, and 24-
hour supervision. Because of the smaller setting, residents often receive more individualized attention. If you
are comparing different types of support, you can also explore other long-term care services to better understand
how residential care fits within the broader care journey.
How much does a residential care home cost?
The cost of a residential care home can vary depending on location, level of care, and the home itself. In many
cases, residential care homes can be more affordable than larger assisted living communities due to their smaller
size and lower overhead.
Monthly costs typically include room and board, meals, personal care, and supervision. Some homes may
charge additional fees for higher levels of care. To better understand pricing and compare options, you can
browse residential care homes directly through our directory and see what is available in your area.
What is the difference between a residential care home and assisted living?
Residential care homes and assisted living communities offer similar types of support, but the main difference is
size and setting. Residential care homes are much smaller—often with just a handful of residents—while
assisted living communities are larger and offer more amenities and social programming.
Because of their size, residential care homes often provide more personalized, one-on-one care in a home-like
environment. Assisted living, on the other hand, may be a better fit for individuals who enjoy a more active,
social community setting. You can explore both residential care homes and assisted living options to determine
which feels like the right fit.
Who is a good fit for a residential care home?
Residential care homes are often a good choice for individuals who need help with daily activities but do not
require ongoing medical care. They can be especially beneficial for those who prefer a quiet, familiar
environment or who may feel overwhelmed in larger settings.
This option is also often well-suited for individuals with dementia or those who benefit from consistent
caregivers and a lower resident-to-staff ratio. If you are unsure which level of care is appropriate, exploring
different care options can help you better understand what your loved one may need.
Does Medicare or Medicaid cover residential care homes?
In most cases, Medicare does not cover residential care homes, as they provide non-medical, custodial care
rather than skilled medical services.
Medicaid coverage varies by state, and while it may help cover certain services, it typically does not pay for
room and board. Because coverage can differ, it’s important to review your state’s specific programs and
explore all available financial options when planning for care.
Can someone stay in a residential care home as their needs increase?
Many residential care homes are designed to support residents as their needs change over time. In many cases,
individuals are able to “age in place,” meaning they can remain in the same home while receiving increased
levels of personal care and support.
As care needs grow, additional services can often be added, such as more hands-on assistance with daily
activities or enhanced supervision. Some residential care homes can also coordinate with outside providers to
bring in additional support, including hospice care, allowing residents to remain in a familiar and comfortable
environment during later stages of life.
However, if a resident develops complex medical needs that require ongoing skilled nursing care, a transition to
a higher level of care—such as a nursing home—may still become necessary. Understanding how a home
supports changing care needs can help families plan ahead with greater confidence and peace of mind.
How do I choose the right residential care home?
Choosing the right residential care home is a deeply personal decision. It can help to consider factors such as the
level of care provided, staff experience, the home’s environment, and how comfortable and supported your
loved one feels during visits.
Because these homes are smaller, paying attention to caregiver interaction, cleanliness, and the overall
atmosphere can be especially important. You can begin your search, compare homes, and connect directly with
providers on longtermcarefinder.com to find an option that truly feels right for your family.