The Setting of Care

Below are the care settings that hire LTC workers. 

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In-Home Care

Most adults who need care get services and support to remain at home. One of the services can be hiring a LTC worker to help with care.  Additional services and supports that may be offered depending on that client’s care needs include nursing or other professional health care, community resources such as Meals on Wheels, hospice or respite care or home modifications and assistive devices to help with independence.

LTC workers working in a client’s home are either hired directly by the person needing care or through a home care agency.  

Residential Care

Residential care is another option for a client who needs help with care.  Adult family homes (AFHs) and assisted living facilities (ALFs) are two examples of residential care. 

AFHs/ALFs

Both AFHs/ALFs provide a room, meals, laundry, supervision, and help with care. In addition, some AFHs/ALFs provide occasional nursing care and/or specialized care for people with mental health issues, developmental disabilities, or dementia.

AFHs are regular neighborhood homes that can provide care for anywhere between two to six clients. ALFs are large homes/facilities in the community that have seven or more clients. 

AFHs and ALFs are licensed by the state.  Regulations set by the state help ensure consistent, quality care and services for all clients living in AFHs or ALFs.  These regulations can be found in WAC 388-76 for AFHs and WAC 388-78a for ALFs.

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Each home, facility, or agency has its own unique business philosophy and goals.  Understanding your employer’s vision helps you get a better feel for your job and what will be expected of you.

For the health and safety of a client, complete all of the tasks assigned to you.