What are the requirements for an adult foster home in Oregon?

Over 18,000 seniors in Oregon reside in licensed long-term care settings, with many choosing smaller, more intimate adult foster homes. Understanding what are the requirements for an adult foster home in Oregon is the first step toward providing compassionate and compliant care.

Quick Summary

To operate an adult foster home in Oregon, a provider must meet rigorous personal, financial, and training standards, alongside ensuring their residence complies with strict state-mandated health and safety codes overseen by the Department of Human Services (DHS).

Key Points

• Provider Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 21, pass background checks, and be physically and mentally capable of providing care.

• Mandatory Training: All providers must complete a basic training course, pass a qualifying exam, and maintain current CPR/First Aid certification.

• Facility Standards: The home must meet state-mandated safety, cleanliness, and accessibility requirements, including proper fire safety equipment.

• Financial Stability: Prospective providers must demonstrate they have enough liquid resources to cover operating costs for at least two months without relying on resident payments.

• Licensing Classification: License classifications (Class 1, 2, 3) are based on the provider's experience and the level of care required by residents.

• Ongoing Compliance: Continued licensure requires annual inspections, ongoing training, and consistent adherence to all state rules and regulations.

Provider and Caregiver Qualifications

Before a license can be issued, the primary provider and all other caregivers must demonstrate they meet specific personal and professional qualifications established by the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS). These requirements ensure residents receive care from competent and trustworthy individuals.

Personal and Character Standards

• Age: Providers and resident managers must be at least 21 years old.
• Character: Applicants must be of good moral character, as determined through reference checks and interviews.
• Background Check: All providers, resident managers, substitute caregivers, and any household members 16 or older must pass a criminal background and abuse history check. Certain convictions can disqualify an applicant.
• Health and Fitness: A licensed medical practitioner must provide a statement confirming the applicant's physical, cognitive, and emotional capability to provide care.
• Language Skills: The provider must be literate in the English language to effectively communicate with residents, families, and medical professionals.

Training and Experience

Oregon mandates extensive training for adult foster home providers to ensure a high standard of care:

1. Basic Training Course and Exam: All applicants must complete a state-approved basic training course and pass a qualifying examination based on the content.
2. CPR and First Aid: Certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid must be current and maintained.
3. Annual Continuing Education: After initial licensing, providers are required to complete at least 12 hours of state-approved training annually.
4. Population-Specific Training: Depending on the residents' needs (e.g., behavioral health, dementia, developmental disabilities), additional specialized training courses are required.

Facility and Home Standards

The physical home must be a safe, clean, and accessible environment that meets all health and safety requirements detailed in Oregon Administrative Rules.

Structural and Safety Regulations

• Residency: The licensed provider or a qualified resident manager must live in the adult foster home.
• Cleanliness and Repair: The entire home, including interior and exterior, must be clean, well-maintained, and in good repair.
• Fire Safety: Functioning smoke alarms must be on each level and in each resident's room. Carbon monoxide alarms and fire extinguishers are also mandatory.
• Accessibility: Interior and exterior areas must be accessible according to resident needs. Handrails must be installed on both sides of all stairways.

Resident Rooms and Bathrooms

• Bedrooms: Each resident must have their own bed and sufficient private closet and dresser space. Windows must meet egress requirements for fire safety.
• Privacy: Bathrooms must offer individual privacy. A lockable bedroom door may be requested by the resident.
• Sanitation and Hygiene: Bathrooms must be well-maintained, clean, and equipped with safety devices like grab bars as needed. There must be an adequate number of bathrooms for all occupants.

The Licensing Application Process

Becoming a licensed provider involves a structured application and inspection process overseen by the Department of Human Services (DHS) or local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA).

1. Contact the Licensing Office: Prospective providers should contact their local DHS or AAA office to express interest and receive initial information.
2. Attend Orientation: A mandatory orientation session provides an overview of the program and licensing procedures.
3. Complete the Application Packet: The applicant must complete and submit a comprehensive application packet, including all necessary documentation and fees.
4. Background Checks: All required individuals must submit to background checks and receive clearance.
5. Home Inspection: A licensing specialist will conduct an on-site inspection of the home to verify compliance with all facility standards.
6. License Issuance: After all requirements are met and any deficiencies are corrected, the license is issued.

Understanding License Classifications

Oregon's adult foster homes are classified based on the provider's experience and the level of care they can provide. The classification determines the number and type of residents a home can admit.

Classification	Provider Experience	Resident Care Needs	Resident Full Assistance Limit
Class 1	Pass Basic Training and Exam	Needs assistance with ADLs	Up to four Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
Class 2	Two or more years experience with elderly or physically disabled adults	Needs assistance with all ADLs	No more than three ADLs
Class 3	Currently licensed health care professional OR three+ years of care experience with specific medical training	Requires full assistance with many ADLs	Four or more ADLs

Financial Requirements

Applicants for an adult foster home license must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to operate the home for at least two months without relying on potential resident income. This is documented through a financial information form and may require proof from a lending institution.

Conclusion: A Comprehensive and Compassionate Commitment

The requirements for an adult foster home in Oregon are designed to ensure that vulnerable adults receive the highest standard of care in a supportive, homelike environment. The process is comprehensive, covering personal qualifications, extensive training, robust financial stability, and detailed facility standards. For individuals with a calling to care for seniors, navigating these regulations is the critical first step towards a rewarding and impactful career.

For more detailed information on the official rules and licensing process, visit the Oregon Department of Human Services Adult Foster Home Program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who regulates adult foster homes in Oregon?

Adult foster homes in Oregon are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS) and local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), who are responsible for licensing, inspections, and handling complaints.

How long does the licensing process take for an adult foster home?

The licensing process typically takes several months, involving initial contact, orientation, background checks, training, and a final home inspection. The county has 60 days to complete the review once a full application is received.

Do I need prior experience to become a provider?

Yes, some level of experience is often required. While Class 1 licenses generally only require the completion of basic training, Class 2 and Class 3 licenses require two or more years of experience providing care to specific populations.

What are the different adult foster home license classifications?

Oregon has three primary classifications: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3. The classification depends on the provider's experience and training, which in turn dictates the level and complexity of care they can offer residents.

Are there financial requirements to open a foster home?

Yes, applicants must prove they have sufficient financial resources to operate the home for at least two months without relying on potential resident income. A financial information form is part of the application.

What training is required for caregivers?

In addition to the provider's training, all caregivers must pass background checks and may need specific training depending on their role and the resident population they serve. First Aid/CPR certification is mandatory for those working alone.

What happens during a home inspection?

During a home inspection, a licensing specialist will check the residence to ensure it meets all structural, safety, and health requirements, including accessibility, fire safety measures, and overall cleanliness.