Local residential care facilities are now home to 1.5 million people in this country, according to government statistics. Most, though not all, residents of local residential care facilities are elderly. The remaining population is made up of those with some form of disability, which requires the use of a residential care facility. There are a number of reasons for choosing local residential care facilities for yourself or your loved ones. Each residential care facility is slightly different. Residential care facilities for the elderly are the most common type. Many of these facilities function more like senior housing apartments than assisted living facilities, with the goal being independent living. But they have the advantage of being able to provide assisted living facilities, too. Minimal care might be to provide housing, meals, cleaning, and laundry services. Assistance with transportation or shopping is often offered, too. More extensive care from local residential care facilities may include full-time nursing care, medication checks and administration, oxygen services, and assistance in receiving local social, medical, or psychological services. Most assisted living facilities will provide assistance in getting to and from doctor or dentist visits, or may have in house health facilities. Some may provide assistance as needed with dressing or grooming. Other local residential care facilities will provide recreational trips, or personal services such as money management assistance. Whether the goal is independent living, or an assisted living facility, there are choices.
