All in Employees

Creating a Culture of Continuous Learning among AFH Staff

In the ever-evolving landscape of Adult Family Homes (AFH), where the needs and challenges of residents are continuously changing, the demand for skillful, informed, and up-to-date staff is paramount. Beyond just professional growth, continuous learning fosters an environment where creativity thrives, solutions emerge, and challenges are approached with an informed mindset. So, how can AFHs instill a culture of continuous learning among their staff? Let's explore.

Legal Aspects of AFHs: Ensuring Compliance and Safety

Operating an Adult Family Home (AFH) comes with immense responsibility, not just to provide quality care to residents but also to ensure that the facility adheres to the legal framework designed to safeguard both residents and the institution. Grasping the legal aspects of AFHs is crucial, as this understanding ensures compliance, optimizes safety standards, and fortifies the reputation of the facility. This article provides a deep dive into some essential legal dimensions every AFH operator must be aware of.

Best Practices for Medication Management in AFHs

In Adult Family Homes (AFHs), ensuring the health and well-being of residents is paramount. A cornerstone of this care lies in the meticulous management of medications. Given the complexity of multiple medications for various ailments, accurate and organized medication management is critical. It minimizes risks, enhances efficacy, and ensures residents’ safety. This article delves into the best practices for medication management in AFHs.

Inclusive Care: Addressing the Needs of LGBTQ+ Elderly Residents

Inclusivity is a hallmark of compassionate and comprehensive care. As society progresses in understanding and acceptance, it's essential that care environments, especially for the elderly, reflect this evolution. For LGBTQ+ seniors, finding a welcoming and understanding Adult Family Home (AFH) is vital for their well-being. In this article, we explore the nuances of inclusive care for LGBTQ+ elderly residents and why it's paramount in today's care landscape.

Maintaining Resident Dignity: A Key Pillar of Adult Family Home Ethics

Adult Family Homes (AFH) are environments that cater to adults who require specialized care and support. While these settings focus on healthcare and day-to-day assistance, an ethical dimension often overlooked is the maintenance of resident dignity. Maintaining the dignity of residents is not just a moral imperative but is instrumental in ensuring their overall well-being and quality of life. In this article, we’ll unravel the significance of resident dignity and how it is a cornerstone of AFH ethics.

The Evolution of Elderly Care: Past, Present, and Future Trends

The dynamics of how societies care for their elderly members are a reflection of cultural, technological, and societal advancements. From family-centered systems to institutionalized care, the journey of elderly care has undergone numerous transformations. In this article, we will explore the evolution of elderly care and what we can anticipate for the future.

The importance of staying up-to-date on industry best practices and regulations

Running an adult family home can be a rewarding and fulfilling career, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. As a care provider, you are responsible for the health, safety, and well-being of your residents, which means it is crucial to stay up-to-date on industry best practices and regulations.

How To Find & Hire The Best Caregiver

All of the strategies that I have outlined here work together to help create a more complete picture for candidates. The more complete the picture, the better chance that you will have of attracting candidates—candidates who will not just be a great fit for your company but will also be interested in your company. This is important because your pre-employment marketing campaigns are likely to cost less than your post-employment marketing campaigns.

Training Requirements and Classes (All)

The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services website provides guidance on training requirements & classes. “CareLearn Washington provides access to professional online training, including DSHS approved continuing education, for long-term care professionals in adult family homes, assisted living facilities, and enhanced services facilities. Visit CareLearn...

DSHS Background Checks - 2021

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services pays for all Long Term Care Worker Background checks.

There are established background check procedures for the following types of facilities:

  • Adult Family Homes, Assisted Living Facilities, and Nursing Homes

  • Medicaid contracted Home Care Agencies

  • Private Pay Home Care Agencies

  • Individual Providers (IP) - Non Developmental Disabilities Administration

AFH - New Hire Reporting

How soon will I need to report new hires or rehired employees?

The DSHS website states that “Federal and state laws require you to report all newly hired and rehired employees to the Division of Child Support (DCS) within 20 days of hire or rehire, regardless of their age or the numbers of hours worked. A newly hired employee is one who has not worked for you before, one who has returned to work for you after a separation of at least 60 consecutive days, or one who has started working for you under a new Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN).”