Alternative Residential Placement

Alternative residential placement may be needed when a loved one is unable to return home for care

Some people are unable to return home following discharge, either temporarily or permanently. For example, a family may not be able to meet the care needs required for the person due to family, social, financial, or cultural issues. In these situations, alternative residential placements may be appropriate. Use and availability of these services vary by state. The medical needs of a person in alternative residential placements are directed by medical professionals.

Examples of alternative residential placements for adults with brain injury may include:

Skilled nursing facilities (SNF)

SNFs (also known as nursing care facilities) provide care in specialty-licensed units of hospitals, nursing homes, or as a standalone residential facility. A SNF may be an appropriate option for individuals with brain injuries who have had extensive inpatient rehabilitation yet need more care and assistance than is available through home health services or community-based programs. Rehabilitation therapies and nursing care are provided at SNFs. The primary goal of care at an SNF is to maintain and improve function, which generally occurs at a slow rate over a long period.

Intermediate Care Facilities (ICF)

ICFs provide beds, meals, and skilled nursing care for people who have disabilities but do not need the level of care offered in a hospital or an SNF.

Transitional facilities

In general, transitional facilities are designed for people who need skilled nursing support after being discharged from the hospital but before they are ready to return home.

Medical group homes

Medical group homes are single-family homes in residential neighborhoods in which a group of people (with varying disabilities and health conditions) live together and receive supervision and care. The amount of medical care available varies between medical group homes.

Residential schools

Residential schools can be public or private institutions. They are designed with a special educational curriculum to meet the needs of children with a variety of disabilities and other health conditions.

Compassionate answers. Real support. Every step of the way.

Contact the National Brain Injury Information Center at 1-800-444-6443 to speak to a specialist about:

• Help with care needs
• Legal and financial resources
• Services in your community