Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Adult Family Homes Differ From Skilled Nursing
Facilities ("nursing homes") ?
Skilled Nursing Facilities, commonly called nursing homes, are larger institutional-type
facilities which may house dozens or even hundreds of residents. These facilities offer
a high level of care to those who need more direct supervision around-the-clock by
licensed nurses. Residents typically live in shared or private bedrooms, with common
dining areas. We believe that most residents in skilled nursing facilities would be
appropriate candidates for an adult-family home setting, as the primary concern for
these resident is usually supervision and medication management (as opposed to
round-the-clock nursing interventions and medical procedures). The cost of care in
Adult Family Homes is typically less than in a skilled nursing facility. The average cost
for nursing home care in the Puget Sound area is $218 per day for semiprivate rooms
and $239 per day for private rooms.
How Do Adult Family Homes Differ From Assisted Living?
Assisted living facilities are subject to fewer regulations than Adult Family Homes and
Skilled Nursing Facilities ("nursing homes") and therefore the type of housing and level
of care offered widely varies between assisted-living facilities. Residents typically live
in self-sufficient apartment-type units without direct supervision by caregivers, but
may be offered "add-on" caregiving or nursing services at additional expense.
Assisted living facilities are usually appropriate for seniors who are ambulatory and
who do not suffer from dementia. Because most assisted living facilities provide
limited caregiving services, many residents care needs will eventually exceed what is
available
What Makes Island Elder Care Unique?
--Owned and operated by a resident Vashon Registered Nurse, who has over twelve
years of experience in geriatric and hospice nursing

---We are a Certified Dementia Specialty Adult Family Home

---We are a Certified Mental Health Specialty Adult Family Home

---We are the only Adult Family Home in the state contracted by the Veterans
Administration  

---Our last inspection by Washington State DSHS found "No Deficiencies", the highest
possible rating.

---Our staff turnover rate is very low; our caregivers have been with us for years

---Our nursing expertise, experience, and enhanced staffing allow us to serve a wider
range of complex medical needs than some adult family homes.  We have provided
care for:
---Alzheimers and other forms of dementia
---Cancer
---Heart Disease
---Stroke
---Diabetes
---Parkinsons Disease
---Feeding Tubes
---Terminal Illness/Hospice Care
---Head Trauma
---Mental Health issues including Depression and PTSD
---Respiratory Diseases requiring round-the-clock oxygen and treatments
---All levels of Dysphagia (swallowing difficulty), including special diets
What is an Adult Family Home?
In Washington state, an adult family home is a private residence which is licensed to
care for no more than six residents. Typically, adult family homes are located in single-
family homes, with each resident occupying either a private or shared bedroom.  
Before entering an adult family home, potential residents are evaluated by a
registered nurse and a detailed plan of care is created based on that person's
individual health care needs. At least one trained caregiver is always on-site,
providing assistance to residents with their daily needs including personal hygiene,
grooming, dressing, and medications.  In addition, all meals, housekeeping, and
laundry services are provided for residents.  Recreational activities are available for
residents based on their individual preferences.