Assisted Living in California
Q: I am moving my 87-year-old mother to California. Her doctor told me to find her an Assisted Living facility by contacting a free Assisted Living referral agency. What is he talking about?
A: That is a very good question. “Assisted Living” is a general term used to describe housing that is designed for seniors who need help with personal care, medication management, transportation, housekeeping, food service or other activities of daily living. These are seniors who do not require 24-hour skilled nursing care. The term actually varies from state to state, as each state has its own regulations and licensing requirements for this type of housing.
In California, the Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division is responsible for the licensure and oversight of Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE), also known as Assisted Living or Board & Care facilities. At its Web site, www.ccld.ca.gov, you can locate licensed facilities by zip code, city, county or area code.
RCFEs provide care to persons 60 years of age and over or persons under age 60 who have compatible needs. Persons who have conditions such as diabetes, dementia, or incontinence may reside in these facilities if they can receive incidental medical care from licensed community providers. RCFEs with Hospice Waivers may also provide care to those who qualify for licensed hospice services. California Assisted Living facilities serve many residents and generally look like large apartment-style buildings with private units. California Board & Care facilities serve no more than six residents in home-style buildings with private or shared bedrooms and shared living and dining areas.
The California Assisted Living Association’s Web site, www.caassistedliving.org, provides a list of referral agencies that are members of the Association and a guide for screening agencies. Referral agencies should be carefully screened as they don’t provide the same kinds of services. A consumer checklist for evaluating RCFEs can also be found at the Association’s Web site.
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