What Is a Type C Assisted Living Facility?

A Type C assisted living facility is a four-bedroom residence contracted by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to provide adult foster care services. These facilities provide a high level of care and supervision for seniors with complex physical, medical or emotional needs. Residents are unable to continue living independently in their own homes. Understanding the different types of assisted living proves beneficial in helping seniors and their families make informed decisions about the type of long-term care that best suits their needs.

As defined by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS), assisted living facilities offer food, shelter, personal care services, medication administration and other day-to-day assistance for four or more unrelated people. Across the state, assisted living facilities (ALFs) fall under one of three designations: Type A, Type B or Type C. Licensing focuses on the scope of care a facility offers and its capacity to assist residents in an emergency that warrants evacuation.

Type A facilities care for seniors who do not require routine attendance during sleeping hours and have the physical and mental capacity to follow directions and evacuate unassisted in an emergency. Type B facilities cater to older adults who require nighttime attendance, assistance transferring to and from a wheelchair and need help under emergency conditions. Type C facilities, with no more than four beds, function as adult foster care facilities for seniors unable to live on their own due to physical, mental or emotional limitations.

As per DADS regulatory standards, Type C assisted living facilities must adhere to certain guidelines and requirements regarding staffing ratios, training requirements, safety protocols and environmental standards.

These facilities require providers and residents to live in the same household with shared common living areas. The residence must be safe, equipped with the appropriate safety features and include a dining room and laundry facilities. Bedrooms should follow sizing requirements and be accessible to the provider’s room in case of emergency. Providers must be on-site 24 hours a day to supervise and assist with personal care tasks. Inspections occur at least annually, ensuring facilities maintain compliance with state standards.

Like all assisted living facilities, Type C facilities provide personalized services tailored to residents’ individual needs. This includes assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing and grooming, as well as medication management and reminders. Staff may also offer incontinence care, feeding assistance and behavioral monitoring as needed. Additionally, Type C facilities serve at least three meals daily, with food options tailored to their dietary requirements. These communities provide transportation to medical appointments and errands.