Community Based Residential Facilities (CBRF)
A Community Based Residential Facility (CBRF) is licensed by the State of Wisconsin, Department of Health and Family Services under HFS 82. A CBRF provides room and board, supervision, and help for people who have trouble living by themselves. A CBRF is a type of assisted living that is a step between living at home and living in a nursing home.
Five or more unrelated adults live in a CBRF. Care, treatment, and service options as well as room and board are given to all residents. A skilled home health agency can provide nursing care. This nursing care may be covered by Medicare.
What can a CBRF offer?
- Staff to watch over you.
- Medicine management.
- Information and referral service.
- Things to do during leisure time.
- Meals and snacks provided.
- Help with cares, bathing, toileting, dressing, and mobility, if needed.
CBRFs can vary greatly in terms of size, cost, activities, staff, and staff training. A growing number of them provide care of persons with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Since many have waiting lists, it is wise to plan ahead should the need arise.
How do I pick a CBRF?
- You can find the name and site of a CBRF in your area from your hospital case managers, social workers, or discharge planners. Community social workers, your county’s aging unit, or the Alzheimer’s Association may also be helpful.
- Visit many places. Ask questions. Ask to see information about the program, an entrance agreement, a statement of resident rights and a complaint procedure. Choosing an Assisted Living Facility document can be found at http://dhfs.wisconsin.gov/bqaconsumer/AssistedLiving/pde579.pdf. This can help you compare facilities and get better information when you visit a facility. Survey information about each CBRF can be obtained from the Regional Division of Supportive Living Office by calling (608) 266-2701. You can also find out more at the Department of Health and Family Services web site. www.dhfs.wisconsin.gov/bgaconsumer/AssistedLiving/AsLivindex.htm.
- Talk with the staff about their special service plans.
- Get on the waiting list, if there is one.
How do I pay for CBRF care?
- Private pay is one choice.
- The County Human Services or Social Services Department (for numbers check your phone book under “government”) may be able to help you with funding. The Benefit Specialist in your county’s aging unit or Area Agency on Aging should be able to answer your questions.
- Private long-term care policies may be a source of payment. Check your policy for details.
- Medicare does NOT pay for this type of care.
How do I go about helping someone move to a CBRF?
- Complete all needed medical forms.
- Select a date.
- In simple terms, explain what is going on.
- Take along special items to make the room in the CBRF home-like.
- Provide background information about the resident to the staff.
What is it like after the move?
This is often a tough time for the caregiver and family. Many have mixed feelings of relief and guilt. A sense of loss is a common feeling. Visits can be hard for the caregiver, family and the resident. In some cases, visits may occur after a “settling in” time. This gives the resident time to adjust. People with memory loss may also take a longer time to adjust to their new home. At first, there may be more agitation or confusion. Working with the staff of the CBRF can be helpful. If there are problems, talk with staff. It is vital to have a good working relationship. You can help the staff to learn about their new resident. This can be done by being open and sharing feelings with the staff.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 03/28/2012
Copyright © 03/28/2012 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#5263
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