A smaller place to call home.

Understand the setting behind the label.

“Residential care home,” “personal care home” and “board and care” are terms you may encounter while searching. A marketing label does not establish a license, staffing level or scope of care. Ask which services the home provides and which licenses apply to that specific address.

A smaller setting may offer shared meals and familiar spaces, while room types, staffing and activities vary. Size alone does not tell you whether a home is suitable or whether assistance will be available when needed.

Questions for a smaller home.

• How many residents live here, and how many staff are present on each shift?
• Are overnight staff awake and on site? What happens if more than one resident needs help?
• Who covers staff absences, and how are new staff trained?
• Which spaces are private or shared? Can I see the room I would actually occupy?
• How are meals, activities, visitors, transport and cultural preferences handled?
• What needs can you support, and what would require a move elsewhere?

Verify the home, then compare the quote.

Confirm the legal provider name and address with Texas HHSC provider search. Ask for current inspection information and discuss any findings with the provider. Do not rely on a review score or a “licensed” label on a marketing page alone.

Reference: Texas HHSC assisted-living provider information. Checked September 14, 2026. Verify current details directly.

Use a written, itemized cost comparison for room charges, care support, medication services and move-in costs. Our educational coverage of care homes is not a list of TSLS participating homes.