What is the Difference Between A Large Assisted Living Facility And A Smaller Board and Care Home?

Our assisted living facilities in Los Angeles feel like home.

Most people are unaware of the key differences between a large assisted living facility, which may house 150 or more residents, and a smaller board and care home.

Understanding these differences is essential to making the right choice for your loved one.

Key Takeaways

Assisted living facilities are large communities offering extensive amenities and social opportunities, ideal for active seniors.
Board and care homes are smaller, intimate settings with personalized care, suitable for seniors needing more supervision or a quieter environment.
Costs vary based on services, location, and facility type, with board and care homes often being more cost-effective.
California RCFEs must adhere to state licensing regulations and may require waivers for dementia care.

Assisted Living Facilities

Large assisted living facilities are typically designed for more active residents who can participate in community activities and navigate dining rooms and common areas independently. These facilities often resemble apartment complexes, with private or semi-private units, and include extensive amenities like fitness centers, beauty salons, and social clubs.

Residents in assisted living facilities receive help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. Meals are often served in a communal dining room, and there is usually a robust calendar of social events and outings to foster an active lifestyle.

Board and Care Homes

Board and care homes, also known as Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFEs) in California, are smaller residential homes that typically house 6 to 10 residents. These homes provide a more intimate, homelike environment where seniors can enjoy personalized attention and consistent care.

Unlike larger facilities, board and care homes often have a higher staff-to-resident ratio. At Raya’s Paradise, for example, the ratio is 1:3, allowing caregivers to provide individualized assistance. These homes are ideal for residents who may feel overwhelmed in larger settings or require additional supervision, such as those with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Key Differences

Living Environment

Assisted living facilities are large, community-based settings that promote social interaction and offer a wide range of amenities. In contrast, board and care homes are smaller, family-style residences that provide a quieter, more personalized atmosphere.

Care and Services

Both options assist with ADLs, but the level of personalized care is often greater in board and care homes due to the lower resident-to-staff ratio. Assisted living facilities, on the other hand, may offer a broader range of activities and amenities.

Cost

Costs for assisted living facilities are generally higher than those for board and care homes, reflecting the additional amenities and services offered. However, pricing varies widely depending on location, services, and the specific facility.

Regulations and Licensing

In California, both assisted living facilities and board and care homes operate under the oversight of the Department of Social Services’ Community Care Licensing Division. These homes are licensed to provide non-medical care and must adhere to strict regulations to ensure resident safety and well-being.

For board and care homes to accept residents with dementia, they must obtain a specific waiver from Community Care Licensing. This waiver ensures the facility is equipped with features like wander guards and specialized staff training to manage dementia-related behaviors effectively.

Benefits of Small Board and Care Homes

Small board and care homes like Raya’s Paradise provide a sense of community and familiarity that can be especially beneficial for seniors with memory impairments. These homes offer:

Consistent staffing to build trust and rapport with residents.
A quiet, homelike environment that reduces anxiety and confusion.
Activities tailored to individual capabilities and interests.

Benefits of Large Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living facilities cater to seniors who value independence and enjoy being part of a vibrant community. Benefits include:

A variety of dining and activity options.
Private apartments for greater autonomy.
Opportunities for socialization and active lifestyles.

Making the Right Choice

When choosing between assisted living and board and care homes, consider your loved one’s preferences, medical needs, and personality. Visiting both types of facilities can provide valuable insights into which environment will best support their well-being.