All in DSHS

Incorporating Holistic Care: The Physical, Emotional, and Mental Aspects

Holistic care is a concept that goes beyond traditional medical practices to embrace the entirety of a person's well-being. It acknowledges that true health is more than just the absence of physical ailments; it encompasses emotional stability, mental clarity, and a vibrant spirit. In this article, we delve into the significance of incorporating holistic care, focusing on its three core pillars: physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

The Evolution of Elderly Care: Past, Present, and Future Trends

The dynamics of how societies care for their elderly members are a reflection of cultural, technological, and societal advancements. From family-centered systems to institutionalized care, the journey of elderly care has undergone numerous transformations. In this article, we will explore the evolution of elderly care and what we can anticipate for the future.

Strategies for maintaining a safe and healthy environment in your adult family home during a pandemic or other health crisis.

Maintaining a safe and healthy environment in an adult family home is always important, but during a pandemic or other health crisis, it becomes even more crucial. As a caregiver or owner of an adult family home, it's your responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of your residents. In this article, we'll discuss some strategies for maintaining a safe and healthy environment in your adult family home during a pandemic or other health crisis.

Tips for creating an effective care plan that meets each resident's individual needs

When it comes to providing care in a long-term care facility, creating an effective care plan is crucial to ensuring that each resident's individual needs are met. A care plan is a written document that outlines a resident's current health status, medical needs, and goals for care. It serves as a roadmap for staff members to follow in order to provide quality care to each resident. In this article, we will discuss tips for creating an effective care plan that meets each resident's individual needs.

The role of communication in building strong relationships with elderly residents

Effective communication is essential in building strong relationships with elderly residents, both in nursing homes and adult family homes. It allows caregivers to understand the needs and concerns of their residents, and it helps to create a sense of trust and connection.

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 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

Frequently Asked Questions – AFH Provider Responsibilities

Management Responsibilities

What are some management responsibilities for operating an adult family home?

The following is a partial list of some things the provider must do.

  • Know and comply with all AFH applicable laws and rules;

  • Meet the assessed care needs and preferences for each resident which may include, but is not limited to:

o Assisting with personal hygiene, dressing, bathing, toileting, body care, walking and moving from one spot to another,

o Providing nutritious meals,

o Offering activities other than television,