People can receive care in many types of residential settings. The right fit depends on what the person needs day to day.
Medicaid long‑term services and supports is one option that can help pay for care. When Medicaid is paying, the home or facility must be licensed in Washington state and able to accept Medicaid.
Explore different residential care options:
State licensed:
- Find Nursing Homes
- Find Adult Family Homes
- Find Assisted Living Facilities
Non-state licensed:
- Retirement Communities/Independent Living Facilities
- Find Continuing Care Retirement Community
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide 24-hour supervised nursing care, personal care, therapy, nutrition management, organized activities, social services, room, board and laundry.
Oversight includes:
- Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services
- DSHS HCLA Residential Care Services
Helpful Resources
- Find a Nursing Home in Washington state and view recent inspection reports.
- Learn how Washington enforces state rules and regulations.
Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman & Consumer Advocacy.
Is a Nursing Home Your Only Choice?
Some people may prefer a more residential setting or to receive care at home.
- Learn more about in-home services.
- Adults using Medicaid may qualify for the Nurse Delegation Program, which allows trained caregivers to perform certain nursing tasks.
Short-term Nursing Home Stays
Many people stay in nursing homes only for rehabilitation or short‑term recovery.
- CDC Planning for Your Discharge Checklist (PDF)
- Plan ahead for services you may need after leaving the facility.
- Talk with hospital or nursing home discharge planners, Senior Information and Assistance office, or your HCS case manager if you receive Medicaid.
Vacancy Listings
We have partnered with Room and Care so adult family homes and assisted living facilities can list vacancies at no cost. Visit Roomandcare.com to get started.
Adult Family Homes
Find an adult family home
Adult family homes are neighborhood homes licensed for two to six residents. They provide:
- A room
- Meals
- Laundry
- Supervision
- Varying levels of personal care
- Some offer nursing care or specialized support (mental health, developmental disabilities, dementia)
To explore options, learn what each home offers, and what questions to ask.
Assisted Living Facilities
Find an assisted living facility
Assisted living facilities are licensed community settings with multiple residents. They provide:
- Housing
- Meals
- Laundry
- Supervision
- Personal care
- Some offer nursing care or specialized support
Facilities serving Medicaid clients offer service packages.
Non-State Licensed Options
- Retirement Communities/Independent Living
- Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Retirement Communities/Independent Living Facilities
Find a Continuing Care Retirement Community.
These communities serve adults 55+ who are generally independent. The person is generally healthy, and any medical or personal care can be provided by visiting nurses or a home health aide. Staff at the retirement community does not take on the general responsibility for the safety and well-being of the resident.
A Continuing Care Retirement Community offers a range of housing and care options—from independent living to nursing home care—in one community. Residents sign long‑term contracts that may include:
- Housing
- Personal care
- Housekeeping
- Yard care
- Nursing care
Contracts often include entry fees or buy‑in fees plus monthly charges. Because fees vary widely, financial and legal advice is recommended.
Washington does not license CCRCs.
Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program
Find your local Ombudsmen Office
The Washington State Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program supports people living in licensed long‑term care settings. Ombudsmen help protect resident rights, work with families and staff to resolve concerns, and provide a safe way to report complaints.
Who can contact them:
- Residents in adult family homes, assisted living facilities, or nursing homes
- Their relatives or friends
- Facility staff or administrators
Why you might reach out:
A local ombudsman is a trusted resource if you have a concern you can’t resolve or need help understanding resident rights.