Information for Consumers

We encourage you to look for a general philosophy of care based on 10 principles - principles that make Personal Care residents the top priority. The residence should:

• Offering cost effective quality care personalized for the individual's needs
• Fostering independence for each resident
• Treating each resident with dignity and respect
• Promoting the individuality of each resident
• Allowing each resident choice of care and lifestyle
• Protecting each resident's right to privacy
• Nurturing the spirit of each resident
• Involving family and friends in care planning and implementation
• Providing a safe, residential environment
• Making the Personal Care residence a valuable community asset

What is Personal Care?

Personal Care care promotes maximum independence and dignity for each resident and encourages participation of a resident's family, extended family, friends and neighbors. Communities are staffed appropriately based on the resident population and are accessible 24 hours a day to meet both scheduled and unscheduled resident needs. The term “Personal Care” may also be sited as personal care homes, adult congregate living facilities, continuing care retirement communities, senior residences, etc. depending on the name chosen by the owner/corporation.

Assisted Living provides a unique combination of residential housing, personalized supportive services, socialization, nutrition and healthcare. Personal Care may offer similar amenities as independent living communities, with the additional services provided for assistance of with his/her personal care needs. It is designed to meet the individual needs of those requiring help with activities of daily living, assistance with medication distribution but do not require  skilled nursing care.

Many of the services provided will be documented as “assisting, monitoring, supervising” options for seniors residing in this alternative living environment. Depending on the community chosen, some homes offer a variety of services based on the resident’s level of care. Charges for personal care homes and Personal Care communities vary based on the accommodations purchased and the number of services required and the charges related to each service at the individual homes.

Prior to beginning your search for a new residence, it is recommended that you assess your financial ability to pay the required monthly fee.  In addition, we recommend that you speak with your medical doctor to determine whether he believes this alternative living arrangement will meet your medical needs.  Be certain to discuss with the community what options are available to you if you become debilitated and may require leaving the community.  Also ask if the community is capable of caring for your medical needs as necessary.

Personal Care Homes are licensed and regulated by the Department of Public Welfare Adult Residential Licensing Bureau, New homes are inspected prior to opening and both new construction and existing homes/communities must meet and maintain the standards mandated by the current PA Code Title 55 Chapter 2600 Personal Care Homes Regulations.

We suggest that you review our listing of Provider Members of PALA.  Each member has an exclusive page dedicated to their community that provides the consumer with the number of rooms. Services included, Community Details, Community Features, Common areas, and a photo of their community with contact information. Be sure to view their web site for additional information.

What services are usually provided?

• Companionship and independence in a secure atmosphere
• Three nutritious meals and snacks served in a common dining room
• Housekeeping Services
• Coordinated Transportation
• Varied Social and Recreational Activity Program
• Emergency Call systems
• Assistance with Medication Management
• 24-hour security with round-the-clock personal care attendants

Who lives in Personal Care Communities?

Personal Care is appropriate for senior who can no longer live on their own for reasons such as: comfort, safety, and peace of mind. It provides an important choice for consumers, and their families, who want supportive housing and services but do not require the 24-hour supervision of a skilled nursing facility. Personal Care is a community resource that allows seniors to remain active with family, friends and community. Many consumers and their families choose Personal Care because it values the independence and dignity of individual residents while providing cost effective and needed services.

Who Regulates Personal Care?

Regulations and licensure requirements vary from state to state Personal Care communities in Pennsylvania are licensed and regulated by the Department of Public Welfare - Division of Personal Care Homes. All residences must comply with fire safety regulations and local building codes.

What does Personal Care cost and who pays for it?

Rates range from $750 to $3,500 per month. The daily cost of $25 to $116 is far more affordable compared to skilled nursing homes that range between $120 to $250 per day. Most Personal Care communities' charge on a month-to-month basis, although some require long term arrangements.

Generally residents pay for their costs from their own finances. Occasionally they require the assistance of their families financial support to cover the costs related to their stay in an Personal Care Setting. Some seniors have health insurance programs or long-term care insurance to subsidize their rent.

Other individuals may be eligible for the Personal Care Home Supplement also known as SSI (Supplemental Security Income).