All in Administrators

Strategies for building strong relationships with residents and their families

Building strong relationships with residents and their families is crucial for providing high-quality care in any setting. Whether you are working in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or providing in-home care, maintaining open and honest communication, involving families in the care process, and handling conflicts in a compassionate and respectful manner are all key factors in building trust and collaboration with residents and their loved ones.

Ideas for engaging and meaningful activities for residents

In this article, we will discuss some ideas for activities and hobbies that can help residents stay active and engaged, the benefits of structured and unstructured activities for older adults, tips for finding activities that are appropriate for the interests and abilities of residents, the benefits of incorporating nature and outdoor activities into the daily routine of residents, and tips for finding and organizing volunteer opportunities or community involvement for residents.

The benefits of forming a strong relationship with your local AFH Council

As an adult family home provider, it is important to stay connected with your local AFH council. This organization is a valuable resource that can provide support, resources, and opportunities for networking and professional development. By being an active member of the council, you can build connections with other providers, advocate for the needs of the industry, and stay up-to-date on important developments in the field.

The importance of staying up-to-date on industry best practices and regulations

Running an adult family home can be a rewarding and fulfilling career, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. As a care provider, you are responsible for the health, safety, and well-being of your residents, which means it is crucial to stay up-to-date on industry best practices and regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions – Adult Family Home Characteristics

Adult Family Home Characteristics

Review Chapter 388-76 WAC for current licensing requirements

The following information can help interested parties make a good decision about the type of home to buy, rent, or lease for use as an adult family home.The applicant must consider what type of residents they will serve to determine if the structure and characteristics of the home are appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions – Building Inspections

Building Inspection

Review Chapter 388-76 WAC for current licensing requirements

If you are applying for an adult family home license, you must submit with your application a copy of the adult family home building inspection checklist that verifies the home has “PASSED” the local building inspection. See WAC 388-76-10695 and 388-76-10700.

Frequently Asked Questions – AFH Provider – Self Assessment

Self Assessment for Potential Adult Family Home Providers

The following assessment was primarily developed by a group of adult family home providers with many years experience in running adult family homes. It is the intent of the assessment to give you as clear a picture as possible of the considerable demands of running an adult family home.

Frequently Asked Questions – AFH Building Requirements

Building Requirements

What are some of the standards that my home must meet when the licensor makes the initial inspection visit?

You must be able to show or verify the following for your home (this list does not reflect all requirements).

  • The home:

Meets current building code requirements for a single family dwelling (no apartments or condominiums

Frequently Asked Questions – AFH Alternative Scenarios

Education Alternatives

If I do not meet the minimum education requirements, are there other alternatives?

See WAC 388-76-10130. There are no exceptions to these requirements.

  • Successful completion of government-approved public or private school education in a foreign country that includes an annual average of one thousand hours of instruction over twelve years or no less than twelve thousand hours of instruction (this is equivalent to grades 1-12 in the United States);

Frequently Asked Questions – AFH Application

What are some of the application requirements that I must meet to be licensed as an adult family home provider?

  • $2,750 fee must be turned in with the license application;

  • For a change of ownership (CHOW) for a currently licensed AFH, submit a written letter from the current licensee saying that they are willing to give up their license when and if your license is approved;

  • Copy of your AFH Orientation Certificate taken within the last 12 months;

  • Copy of Washington State Business License

Training Requirements and Classes (All)

The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services website provides guidance on training requirements & classes. “CareLearn Washington provides access to professional online training, including DSHS approved continuing education, for long-term care professionals in adult family homes, assisted living facilities, and enhanced services facilities. Visit CareLearn...

Marketing Ideas for AFH Providers

If you are a Provider, this is the perfect time to make sure that your community knows about your AFH. The best part is that no matter where you live, there are lots of resources and opportunities just waiting for your business to shine. It is just a matter of getting started! Here are some easy marketing ideas to help get more eyes on your business.

Why is AFH Branding Important for Your Business?

Every business is unique, and every brand needs to reflect that in order to stand out from the crowd. The importance of branding cannot be understated. If you’re just starting out with your business or have recently made some changes, it’s a good idea to check your branding and make sure everything remains intact and consistent across all platforms.

Brand identity is crucial for any business because it signals to customers what type of company you are, who you are as an organization, and what your values are. Your brand also creates trust between your business and your target market by communicating the values that you stand for, who you serve, and how you serve them.