30 Questions to Ask When Looking for a Group Home

Takeaways

• Choosing a group home for an individual with a disability requires careful consideration of various factors, including the services offered, cost, quality of the facility, location, and how the home supports individual preferences and autonomy.
• A comprehensive list of questions covering these areas can help individuals and their families make an informed decision and find a suitable living arrangement that meets the specific needs and preferences of your loved one with the disability.

Group homes are a common residential option for people with developmental disabilities who need help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, laundry, and preparing meals. According to one report from 2022, 15 percent of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities receiving publicly funded services live in group homes.

The types of group homes available across the United States vary considerably. Some residents find that group homes allow them to be more independent and connected to community. Others have raised concerns that life in a group home offers fewer opportunities for personal choice.

Whether a particular group home is right for a person with a disability can depend on the nature of the disability, how much help the individual needs, how the group home is run, and what kind of support and services it provides.

People with disabilities and their families should thoroughly research group home options, as well as alternatives like assisted living and in-home care, before committing to a move to group living.

The following questions can help guide people with disabilities and their loved ones in deciding if a group home is right for them.

Questions About Services and Supports

Since the level and types of supports and services can vary across group homes, finding an option that best meets the needs of the person with a disability is important. First, it can be helpful to list the kinds of services and supports the person prefers, highlighting those that are essential and asking about them when taking a tour.

Here are some questions that can help individuals and families learn more about a group home’s services and supports:

• Can you describe the services and supports offered?
• What meals are provided, and who prepares them?
• Is there a dedicated cleaning staff, or are residents expected to pitch in?
• How many staff members are there, and do they live at the facility?
• Does the home offer transportation to appointments, community events, etc.?
• Are staff available to help with activities of daily living (ADLs) like getting ready for the day, taking a shower, or going to the bathroom?
• How are prescription medications administered?

Cost Considerations

In addition to services offered, finances are a crucial consideration for many with special needs and their families. The cost of living in a group home setting can depend on several factors, such as where it is located and the level of services and care provided.

• What is the breakdown of monthly fees, and how much is the total cost per year?
• Is this a private facility? (Note that private group homes can cost upwards of $100,000.)
• Does my state offer a Medicaid Home and Community Services waiver?

Quality of the Group Home

Assessing the quality of the group home is an essential part of the research process. To determine whether the group home meets your expectations, speak with present and former residents and their families as well as staff.

• How often is the home cleaned?
• Does the owner of the group home live on the property?
• How large are the rooms?
• Do residents have to share rooms, or do they get their own room?
• Has there been any history of mold, pests, etc.?
• Is there outdoor space for residents to use and, if so, who maintains it?
• Is the home certified by a legitimate state agency?
• How long has the group home been in business?
• Is there a succession plan for ownership?

Location

Where someone lives has a significant impact on the quality of their life. The community where the group home is located can be an important consideration. For those with disabilities, safety, accessibility, and inclusiveness are all key factors.

• Are there crime statistics available for the area?
• Is it safe for residents to walk alone?
• Are there accessible sidewalks on the grounds and in the surrounding community?
• Where are the nearest parks, libraries, stores, and other amenities?
• How far away is the home from family, friends, religious institutions, and community centers?
• Will the location be familiar to my disabled loved one, and do they like the location?

Individual Preferences and Autonomy

Finally, consider how the group home would support the autonomy of your disabled loved one. People with disabilities have a right to safe accommodations with the least restrictions possible.

• How often can residents leave the facility?
• Can residents access food and snacks when they wish?
• Are specific rules in place at the home?
• Is there a process for responding to complaints, requests for changes, or accommodations?
• Can residents access things that make life more meaningful and enjoyable, like community activities, volunteer or work opportunities, or religious services?

Learn More

Asking questions about a long-term care facility or group home’s services, cost, quality, location, and resident autonomy can all help shed light on whether it will be a good fit for your loved one’s specific needs and preferences. For additional insights, the following articles discuss other housing possibilities:

• Shared Living Arrangements for Adults With Disabilities
• Accessory Dwelling Units Promote Independence Near Family
• Low-Income Housing for People With Disabilities