Is a home for the aged the same as assisted living in Michigan?

Not exactly. Michigan licenses homes for the aged and adult foster care homes. "Assisted living" is a common term that some licensed homes use for themselves. When you tour a home that calls itself assisted living, ask which state license it holds.

What is the difference between adult foster care and a home for the aged?

They are licensed under different laws. A home for the aged serves residents 55 and older in a facility of 21 or more. Adult foster care homes can serve adults of any age who are aged or have mental illness, developmental disabilities or physical disabilities, and range from 3 residents to more than 20.

Can a home for the aged care for someone who needs nursing care?

State rules allow a resident who needs continuous nursing care to remain if the resident receives services from a licensed hospice program or home health agency. Each home also sets its own policies, so ask the home what it can do.

How many residents can an adult foster care home have?

A family home can have 3 to 6, a small group home 3 to 12, a large group home 13 to 20, and a congregate facility more than 20.

Is adult foster care cheaper than a home for the aged?

It depends on the home. Michigan does not set private-pay prices. Compare written fee schedules and what each fee includes.

How do I check if a Michigan home is licensed?

Use the LARA search for adult foster care and homes for the aged. The profile shows license status, dates, type, capacity and available inspection reports.

Who do I contact if I think a resident is not being cared for properly?

File a complaint with LARA at 866-856-0126, report abuse or neglect at 855-444-3911, or call the Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman at 866-485-9393. Call 911 in an emergency.

Can Home Help pay for care in an adult foster care home?

No. The MDHHS Adult Services Manual says Home Help cannot be approved for a client living in a licensed or unlicensed foster care home.

Is checking a Michigan license free?

Yes. The LARA license search is public and costs nothing.

Is there a difference between assisted living and a licensed home in Michigan?

"Assisted living" is an informal umbrella term, not a license type. Michigan issues homes for the aged licenses and adult foster care licenses, so ask each home which license it holds.

Can I read inspection reports without the home's permission?

Yes. Reports shown on a facility's public profile are open to anyone.

What if I cannot find the home on LARA?

Try the street address or a former name. If that fails, ask the home for its license number and search by it. A home that refuses to give you its license number is a serious warning sign.

How often should I check?

Check before you tour, again before you sign, and whenever a concern comes up.

How can I get a home's corrective action plan?

LARA's facility profile page says corrective action plans can be requested under the Freedom of Information Act.

What types of activities are included in social programs at Dreams Estate?

Our social programs include arts and crafts, music therapy, exercise, outings, and social events.

Are activities suitable for seniors with limited mobility?

Yes, all activities are designed for accessibility with staff support.

How often are community outings organized?

We organize weekly outings in Detroit.

Can family members join social events?

Yes, family participation is encouraged.

Melvie Ada Berkery, Author at Dream Estates

Melvie Ada Berkery

Melvie Ada Berkery, JD, is the Founder and CEO of Dream Estates Assisted Living, a landmark senior care community in Detroit, Michigan. Combining a legal background with over a decade of leadership as the Executive Director of St. Marie's Hospice, Melvie is dedicated to redefining residential care for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Her work has been recognized by the City of Detroit for driving compassionate, high-quality, and community-centered healthcare solutions. Melvie advocates for dignity in aging, family peace of mind, and clinical excellence.

Melvie Ada Berkery

Melvie Ada BerkeryView all posts

How Much Does Memory Care Cost in Michigan?

Does Medicaid Pay for Assisted Living in Michigan?

How to Check a Michigan Assisted Living License

What to Pack for Assisted Living and What to Expect in the First 30 Days