Housing Definitions


Assisted Living Facilities: a combination of housing and personalized supportive services offered in a residential home-like setting, and designed to respond to the individual needs of those who require help with activities of daily living.  Some assisted living facilities may be licensed as “residential care facilities.”  The Assisted Living Waiver is a Medicaid program that helps pay for assisted living services in a certified facility.  Eligibility is limited to those currently in a nursing home or those receiving Medicaid home care services, who otherwise may become permanent nursing home residents.  See Agency Programs for more information about the Assisted Living Waiver.

Independent Living Facilities, subsidized: include apartments, individual homes, cottages and condominiums. Conveniences and minimal services may be available on site. Individuals must meet the income guidelines to qualify for a “subsidized” facility; rent is based on the individual’s income.

Independent Living Facilities, non-subsidized: include apartments, individual homes, cottages and condominiums. Conveniences and minimal services may be available on site. “Non-subsidized” includes market and tax credit rates.  In a tax credit rate, the rental amount is based on the pre-set income limits in the area, not on the individual’s income.

Adult Foster Home: Accommodations and personal care services are provided in a residential home to one or two adults who are unrelated to the owner of the residence.  Generally, the owners are the primary caregivers.  Residents may be left unsupervised for up to 6 hours/day.  Certified by the Area Agency on Aging, each home must meet certain requirements.

Group Home: Accommodations, supervision and assistance with personal care is provided by trained staff.  Supervision of self-administration of medication is also provided.  Many serve residents with mental illness or behavioral problems.  Homes are licensed by the Ohio Dept. of Health for 6-16 residents.

Adult Family Home: Accommodations, assistance with activities of daily living and assistance with self-administration of medications is provided for 3-5 residents in a homelike atmosphere.  Continuous supervision is available by staff.  Many serve residents with mental illness or behavioral problems.  Certain requirements must be met to maintain licensure by the Ohio Dept. of Health.

Residential Care Facilities: include nursing homes, and assisted living facilities in which 17 or more individuals are served.  Supervision and personal care service is provided for those who cannot meet their own needs secondary to physical or mental impairment.  Accommodations are widespread and vary with each facility.  Facilities may be owned by a large corporate entity or may be family owned/operated.  All sites are licensed and surveyed by the Ohio Dept. of Health.

These definitions are general guidelines. It is recommended you check with the individual facility for an accurate description of housing options, services and amenities.