They are alternatives for persons who do not need the skilled levels of care provided by nursing homes. Any home that provides services to three or more adults unrelated to the owner of the home, must be licensed if it provides room and board and personal services, protective oversight and social care for persons who can no longer live independently. These facilities provide a home- like environment, and supportive services such as meals, laundry, personal care with bathing and dressing, assistance in taking medications, activities, transportation and other services. These are personal care boarding homes owned and operated for chronically mentally ill persons. There are about 55 currently operating.
Regulations allow a maximum of sixteen residents in each such facility.
These persons should not need continuous nursing care, but, because of their current disability, are unable to live independently and require a protective home environment. The Colorado Department of Human Services must approve the treatment programs for these facilities. State laws govern the operation of assisted living facilities and personal care boarding homes. and include Residents Rights. The Health Facilities Division surveys these homes regularly and conducts complaint investigations. The local ombudsman is available to help with problems as they arise.