What Is a Group Home and How It Can Benefit Your Loved One with Dementia?

Today, I want to introduce you to a type of living facility that’s often overlooked but can be a great option for older adults who need assistance with daily activities, especially those living with dementia. Whether your loved one has dementia or not, a group home could be the perfect solution if aging at home is no longer possible.

Let’s face it—most older adults prefer to age and even die at home, and family members want to make that happen. But sometimes, home care just isn’t feasible. When that happens, most people think about assisted living, memory care, or nursing homes. However, there’s another option you may not have considered: the group home. Let’s dive into what a group home is, its pros and cons, and whether it could be the right choice for your loved one, especially if they have dementia.

What Exactly Is a Group Home for Dementia Care?

You might be wondering, “What’s a group home?” Group homes look like regular houses you’d see in your neighborhood. Here in Phoenix, Arizona, I’ve seen many of them, and you wouldn’t even know they’re care facilities unless you looked closer. They’re residential homes licensed by the state that provide care to individuals who need help with daily activities, much like assisted living or memory care facilities. The difference? The group home offers a smaller, more intimate, and home-like setting, which can be especially comforting for someone with dementia.

Have you ever heard about group homes before? Let me know in the comments!

Why Group Homes Are Great for Dementia Patients

One of the biggest advantages of group homes for dementia care is the staff-to-patient ratio. This ratio is often much better than what you’d find in a larger facility like assisted living or memory care. Dementia patients often require more hands-on, personalized attention, and in larger facilities, this can be challenging to provide.

To give you some context, I recently toured several skilled nursing facilities, and their staff-to-patient ratios were 1:11 or 1:12. That means one staff member is responsible for 11 or 12 people! If you’ve ever cared for someone with dementia, you know how much attention they require. In contrast, group homes typically have a ratio of 1:7 or 1:8. It varies, but you’re more likely to get individualized care in a group home—something that’s essential for people living with dementia.

Home-Cooked Meals and a Cozy Environment

Another perk of group homes, especially for those with dementia, is the home-cooked meals. In many group homes, meals are prepared just like they would be in a family home. This is a huge benefit because people with dementia often respond well to familiar, comforting environments and meals.

If you’re touring a group home, make sure to ask about their meal plans. The food tends to be healthier and more varied compared to what you’d find in large, institutional settings. These little touches can make a big difference for someone with dementia, as familiarity can help reduce anxiety and confusion.

Medical Attention and Limitations

Now, one downside is that group homes generally don’t have medical staff on-site. Unlike nursing homes or memory care facilities, you won’t find doctors available 24/7 in a group home. However, the caregivers in these homes can assist with medications, bathing, dressing, and other daily tasks.

If your loved one with dementia requires significant medical care, a group home might not be the best fit. It’s important to assess your loved one’s health needs before making this decision. Keep in mind that all residents must go through an application process to ensure that the facility can meet their care requirements.

Cost Differences: Group Homes vs. Nursing Homes

Here’s where group homes really shine—cost. The national average for a long-term care facility is around $120,000 per year for a shared room. That’s a huge financial burden for many families. In contrast, group homes are much more affordable. In Arizona, for example, a shared room in a group home costs around $3,000 per month, while a private room runs about $4,000. That’s a significant cost saving, especially for long-term dementia care.

Home-Like Setting: A Key Benefit for Dementia Patients

One of the standout features of group homes is how homey they feel. People with dementia often respond better to familiar, cozy environments rather than the more clinical settings of nursing homes or large assisted living facilities. In a group home, they can enjoy a quieter, more personal atmosphere, which can help reduce anxiety and make them feel more at ease.

If you’re worried about how holidays or special occasions might feel in a care facility, a group home might be the answer. The smaller, more intimate environment means that these moments can feel more personal and special—just like they would at home.

Are There Enough Activities for Someone with Dementia?

In terms of activities, larger nursing homes and assisted living facilities often have full activity programs with coordinators. Group homes may not offer as many structured activities, but they do still have options. Some group homes take residents on outings, such as trips to the casino or the botanical gardens. But keep in mind, these activities will vary from one home to another.

For someone like my dad, who isn’t interested in group activities like bingo or crafts, a group home would work just fine. However, if your loved one is very social and craves constant engagement, a larger facility might be a better fit. It all depends on what your loved one enjoys.

Is a Group Home Right for Your Loved One with Dementia?

So, how do you know if a group home is the right choice for your loved one with dementia? Here are a few things to consider:

1. Level of Care: Does your loved one need medical attention beyond what a group home can provide?
2. Budget: Group homes are often more affordable than larger facilities, making them a great option for families with financial constraints.
3. Personality: Does your loved one thrive in a quiet, home-like setting, or do they prefer a more social, active environment?

Final Thoughts on Group Homes for Dementia Care

Ultimately, choosing the right care facility for your loved one is a highly personal decision. You’ll need to weigh the pros and cons and, ideally, tour several facilities before making a choice. Group homes can offer a more personalized, home-like environment, which can be incredibly beneficial for someone living with dementia. The individualized attention, home-cooked meals, and affordable costs make them a great option for many families.

So, have you ever considered a group home for your loved one with dementia? Maybe you’ve toured one or had a loved one live in one? Share your experiences in the comments below!