Missoula families navigate care options among 4 nursing and 16 personal care homes

Missoula's senior care landscape is set for a clearer understanding as local officials discuss the distinctions between various care facilities during a recent government meeting. The meeting highlighted the differences between adult foster care homes, personal care homes, and nursing homes, providing essential information for families seeking care options for their loved ones.

Adult foster care homes are small, licensed for up to four residents, and focus solely on personal care tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and bathing. In contrast, personal care homes can accommodate more residents, sometimes exceeding 100 beds, and offer similar personal care services along with medication reminders and prescription record-keeping. However, neither type of facility provides nursing services.

The meeting also detailed the two levels of care available in personal care homes. Level A requires residents to be self-ambulatory and capable of managing their own mobility, while Level B allows for more assistance, including care for individuals who may be incontinent. Importantly, both levels lack nursing services, which are only available in nursing homes that provide 24-hour care under a physician's supervision.

Families are encouraged to consult with primary physicians to assess care needs before choosing a facility. Financial considerations are also crucial, as Medicaid can assist with nursing home costs but does not cover personal care homes or adult foster care homes. A Medicaid waiver program exists for limited community services, and interested individuals can seek guidance from case managers.

In Missoula, there are currently four nursing homes, 16 personal care homes, and approximately 10 adult foster care homes. As families navigate these options, officials emphasized the importance of asking the right questions and utilizing available resources to make informed decisions about senior care.

This meeting marks a significant step in enhancing community awareness about senior care options, ensuring that families are better equipped to choose the most suitable facility for their loved ones' needs.