Assisted Living Texas Style
Assisted Living in Texas is both similar to what can be found in other states, yet at the same time unique.  As is true in most states, Assisted Living Facilities are communities that will provide food, shelter, and basic assisted care to four or more persons, unrelated to the owner.  Under the direction and supervision of a doctor, their services will often go beyond just providing food, shelter and laundry.  Note that in Texas,  Adult Foster Care Homes are listed as Type C Assisted Living Facilities.

In Texas you will find the following types of Assisted Living designations:
  • Type A facilities may only accept residents who are able to evacuate the premises unassisted, are able to follow directions under emergency conditions and do not require routine attendance during nighttime sleeping hours.
  • Type B facilities may accept residents who do not qualify for a Type A facility, but only if these residents are not permanently bedfast.
  • Type C facilities are 4-bed facilities that meet the minimum standards and rules for enrollment in the Adult Foster Care home program.
  • Type E facilities are similar to Type A but are limited to no more than 16 beds, and are not required to have the same type of fire alarm system that Type A facilities have.

The Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) regulates assisted living facilities as well as conducts routine inspections of licensed facilities and also conducts complaint investigations in these facilities.