By Erin Kershaw, Certified Senior Advisor at Concierge Care Advisors
The Real Value of Adult Family Homes: It’s About the Care, Not the Curb Appeal
Choosing an Adult Family Home (AFH) for your loved one can be overwhelming. Families often feel stress and pressure to find a place that not only feels right but looks right too. When touring, it’s natural to make a quick judgment based on the appearance of the home. But while a clean, attractive space is important, the most crucial factor—the quality of care—is not always immediately visible.
During your tour, you won’t witness everything that happens behind the scenes. You won’t see caregivers helping residents with their daily routines, such as assisting with showers or encouraging them to get dressed for the day. A tour is just a snapshot of that moment in time. Had you visited thirty minutes earlier or later, the energy and activity might feel completely different.
What to Focus on During Your Tour
Rather than focusing solely on aesthetics, shift your attention to what matters most—the care provided and how well the owner and staff align with your family’s values. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your visit:
- Talk to the Owner and Staff
- Ask about the daily routine, how they manage medical needs, and what activities they provide.
- Share your concerns and ask specific questions about how they’ll meet your loved one’s needs.
- Observe the Interaction Between Caregivers and Residents
- Notice if caregivers engage with residents in a respectful and compassionate way. Are they patient? Do they seem genuinely invested in the residents’ well-being?
- Trust Your Gut Feeling
- Sometimes the most important factor is how you feel when you walk through the door. If something feels off, don’t ignore that instinct. On the other hand, if a home feels warm, inviting, and like a good fit, that can speak volumes.
- Customize Their Living Space
- Remember, the room can be decorated however your loved one likes. Even if the rest of the home’s décor doesn’t match your tastes, your loved one’s room can reflect their personality and make them feel at home.
Purpose-Built vs. Remodeled Homes: What Really Matters?
Some Adult Family Homes are purpose-built with large, modern layouts, while others are remodeled homes designed to meet the needs of seniors. Both have their merits, but it’s essential to remember: appearance isn’t everything.
- Purpose-built AFHs may offer more space and modern amenities, but a well-maintained older home with engaged caregivers can provide the same, if not better, quality of care.
- What truly matters is the owner’s dedication to their residents and the team’s ability to provide personalized care. A beautiful house can’t replace a compassionate caregiver who takes the time to understand your loved one’s needs.
The Power of Communication and Connection
One of the most critical factors in choosing an Adult Family Home is your ability to connect and communicate with the owner and staff. A strong relationship with the caregivers can make all the difference in ensuring your loved one receives high-quality care.
Make sure the staff is responsive, transparent, and open to collaborating with you. This ensures your loved one’s needs are always met, and any concerns are addressed promptly. A home may not be picture-perfect, but if the caregivers are reliable and you feel comfortable reaching out to them, that’s a sign you’ve found the right place.
Choose Care, Not Just Aesthetics
At the end of the day, the appearance of the home is secondary to the quality of care your loved one will receive. Don’t let the first impression of a home’s exterior discourage you. Instead, focus on the staff, the environment inside, and the care practices you observe. The well-being and happiness of your loved one depend far more on compassionate, attentive care than on curb appeal.
Let Us Give You Peace of Mind
At Concierge Care Advisors, we understand how overwhelming it can be to find the right Adult Family Home. Our experienced team focuses on matching families with homes that prioritize care and connection. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you find a home that feels right for your loved one—inside and out.
