Senior Living Options Comparison
| Type of Care | Setting & Size | Staff-to-Resident Ratio | Level of Care Provided | Best For | Why Choose an Adult Foster Home Instead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Foster Home (AFH) | Small home (up to 5 residents) | 1 caregiver for every 1–5 residents, with a nurse on call | 24-hour personalized care from consistent caregivers | Individuals needing daily assistance, supervision, or behavioral support | — Feels like family — More one-on-one attention — Home-like, calm environment — Affordable compared to larger facilities — Access to on-call nursing guidance for health changes or medication needs |
| Assisted Living | Large community (30–100+ residents) | About 1 staff for every 10–15 residents (varies by shift) | Help with meals, meds, bathing, and light mobility | Seniors who are mostly independent but need some help | AFHs offer closer supervision, faster response time, and more flexibility for changing needs |
| Independent Living | Apartment-style community | Minimal (typically no caregivers on staff) | No personal or medical care; focus on social life | Active, healthy seniors who need convenience, not care | AFHs better for those who begin needing hands-on help or daily reminders |
| Residential Care Facility | Mid-sized licensed facility (10–40 residents) | Typically 1 staff for every 8–12 residents | 24-hour care, similar to AFH but less personal | Those who need help but prefer a larger setting | AFHs offer quieter settings and consistent caregivers familiar with each resident |
| Memory Care | Secured facility specialized for dementia | Around 1 staff for every 6–10 residents | Structured routine, safety features, specialized dementia care | Those with moderate to severe dementia or wandering behaviors | AFHs can offer memory care in a smaller, calmer setting with individualized attention |
| Nursing Home (Skilled Nursing Facility) | Large medical facility | Varies; 1 nurse/CNA for 10–20 residents | 24-hour nursing and medical care, rehabilitation | Individuals needing IVs, wound care, or continuous medical monitoring | AFHs are better suited for long-term living with personal care and comfort, not intensive medical treatment |