What Are My Options?
We help families compare assisted living, memory care, adult family homes, and in-home care options in Southwest Washington.
When starting the search for senior living or care for yourself or a loved one, it can be confusing to understand the different types of care available. Each option provides a different level of support depending on medical needs, safety concerns, and lifestyle preferences.
Below is an overview of the most common senior care options in Southwest Washington.
Adult Family Homes
Adult Family Homes are residential homes licensed through the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services that care for up to six residents. These smaller homes provide a more intimate setting and can support a wide range of care needs.
Many Adult Family Homes specialize in dementia care and are able to provide higher levels of support, including end of life care.
All Adult Family Homes require nurse oversight and a registered nurse assessment prior to admission to determine the level of care a resident will need.
Assisted Living
Assisted living communities typically offer apartment style living for older adults who need help with some daily activities but do not require full time nursing care.
Staff can assist with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and meals while allowing residents to maintain as much independence as possible.
Before moving in, a nurse from the community will complete an assessment to determine the level of care needed and ensure the resident can safely live in an assisted living setting.
Memory Care
Memory care communities are designed specifically for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
These communities are secure environments with specially trained staff, structured activities, and layouts designed to support residents with memory loss. Most have secured outdoor courtyards so residents can safely spend time outside.
Memory care is often the safest option for someone who is prone to wandering or becoming disoriented.
A dementia diagnosis and nurse assessment are typically required prior to admission.
Continuum of Care Communities
Continuum of care communities (sometimes called Continuing Care Retirement Communities) offer multiple levels of care on one campus.
These campuses often include independent living, assisted living, memory care, and sometimes skilled nursing or rehabilitation services in separate areas of the community.
This allows residents to remain in the same community even if their care needs change over time.
Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation
Skilled nursing facilities provide 24-hour medical care and supervision. These facilities have registered nurses, rehabilitation therapists, and other medical professionals on site.
Skilled nursing is typically used for short term rehabilitation after a hospitalization or surgery, but some residents require long term care at this level.
Many people transition from skilled nursing into assisted living, memory care, or an adult family home once their rehabilitation is complete.
Hospice Care
Hospice care focuses on comfort and quality of life for individuals facing advanced illness. Hospice services are provided by a specialized care team that supports both the patient and their family.
A physician referral is required to begin hospice services, and the hospice team will determine if the patient qualifies.
Hospice care can be provided in a person’s home, assisted living, adult family homes, memory care communities, skilled nursing facilities, or dedicated hospice centers.
Respite Care
Respite care provides short term stays in a care community and is often used to give family caregivers a temporary break.
This might allow a caregiver time to rest, travel, or attend to other responsibilities while knowing their loved one is receiving professional care.
Respite stays are typically less than 30 days.
In-Home Care
In-home care allows individuals to remain in their own home while receiving assistance with daily activities.
Care can range from a few hours per week to 24-hour support depending on the level of need.
Services may include help with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, medication reminders, transportation, and companionship.
In Washington State, in home care agencies are licensed and overseen by the Department of Health. We recommend working with an agency that employs trained caregivers and is licensed, bonded, and insured.
Not Sure Which Option Is Right?
Every situation is different, and the right care setting depends on health needs, safety concerns, budget, and personal preferences. Senior Living Locator helps families in Southwest Washington understand their options and navigate the decision-making process.