Skip to content
  • Why ECP
    Read about ECP's mission and values in proving a complete software solution for assisted living and long-term care communities.
    See what our valued customers have to say about their personal experience with ECP.
    ECP is a rapidly growing software service that provides industry leading community management solution.
    View the list of industry standard certifications that we're proud to have achieved.
  • Solutions
    BY INDUSTRY
    Discover why ECP is the preferred assisted living software, helping communities thrive and provide better care.
     
    Understand how ECP aids in providing person-centered care to improve residents' quality of life.  
     
    Save time and grow your business with the leading Assisted Living eMAR.
     
    Automate and grow your Independent Living communities.
     
    Explore the tools available to help improve the quality of care for individuals with disabilities.
     
    Learn how ECP can benefit Adult Family Homes, Group Homes, and Small Assisted Living Communities.
    ECP provides a complete workflow solution for your business, from lead to resident to revenue.
     
    Take a look at the tools ECP provides to gain complete oversight into your communities.  
     
    Improve your workflow and spend more time caring for your residents with the inudustry's leading clinical software.
     
    Learn how ECP helps reduce time spent charting, providing more quality time with residents.
     
    Identify prospects that align with your goals and increase occupancy rates.  
     
     

     

  • Products

    Reduce medication errors with safer med passing and enhanced oversight.

    Capture leads, build relationships, and grow occupancy.
    Confidently care and ensure better care.

     

    Track every step from decision to move-in day, all in one place.
    Capture every service, every payment, every time.
  • Resources
    Review common questions to find the answers you're looking for.
     
    Our library of informative guides to ECP products and solutions as well as industry-related topics.
     
    View a list of upcoming webinars and events.
    Connect seamlessly with pharmacy partners and favorite tools through ECP's integrations.
     
    Read these success stories from our customers.
     
    ECP helps senior living communities turn daily care into measurable outcomes that support value-based care partnerships.
    Build seamless, reliable connections to ensure accurate data exchange.
     
    Stay in the know with ECP updates and industry knowledge.
    Browse our comprehensive library of standard and state custom reports.
     
    Stay informed with official updates, product enhancements, and industry contributions from ECP.
  • Integrations
  • Contact
  • Customer login
Request a demo
Search icon
Request a demo
All posts

Act 218 vs. Act 368: The Differences Between AFC and HFA in Michigan

Picture of Abby Kimmelman   Abby Kimmelman  ·  2 minute read

When it comes to choosing the right care setting for elderly loved ones in Michigan, it's important to understand the differences between Adult Foster Care (AFC) and Home for the Aged (HFA). The licensing requirement for these can be found in Act 218 of 1979 for AFC and Act 368 of 1979 for HFA. Both options offer unique benefits and cater to various levels of care needs. In this blog, we will explore the different types of care provided in AFC and HFA settings to help you make an informed decision.

Adult Foster Care (AFC)

Adult Foster Care (AFC) is a community-based residential care option in Michigan that is designed for individuals who require varying levels of assistance with daily activities but wish to maintain a more home-like environment. Here's a closer look at the type of care provided in AFC:

  1. Personalized Care Plans:

    • AFC homes emphasize personalized care plans tailored to each resident's specific needs and preferences.
    • Caregivers in AFC facilities work closely with residents to create individualized care plans that address everything from medication management to meal preparation and mobility assistance.

  2. Smaller Scale, Home-like Environment:

    • AFC homes are typically smaller in scale, accommodating a limited number of residents (no more than 20).
    • The smaller size fosters a close-knit, family-like atmosphere, where residents often build strong bonds with both caregivers and fellow residents.

  3. Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs):

    • AFC homes excel in providing assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
    • Caregivers ensure that residents receive the necessary support to maintain their independence and dignity.

Home for the Aged (HFA)

Home for the Aged (HFA) facilities in Michigan offer a higher level of care and support, catering to individuals who may have more complex medical needs. Here's an overview of the type of care provided in HFAs:

  1. Comprehensive Medical Services:

    • HFAs are equipped to provide a broader range of medical services, including skilled nursing care, therapy services, and medical monitoring.
    • Residents with chronic conditions or complex health needs benefit from access to on-site medical professionals, including registered nurses.

  2. Larger Facilities:

    • HFAs are typically larger in scale and can accommodate a higher number of residents (often 20 or more).
    • These larger facilities may have specialized care units, such as memory care units for residents with Alzheimer's or dementia.

  3. More Institutional Setting:

    • Unlike AFC homes, which are often located in residential neighborhoods, HFAs are usually situated in commercial areas, leading to a more institutional feel.
    • The larger size and layout of HFAs may make it less conducive to building close-knit relationships among residents.

Choosing between Adult Foster Care (AFC) and Home for the Aged (HFA) in Michigan depends on the specific needs and preferences of your loved one. AFC offers a home-like environment with personalized care plans and a smaller scale, emphasizing assistance with daily activities. In contrast, HFA provides comprehensive medical services in a larger, more institutional setting. Both AFC and HFA options aim to provide quality care and support for Michigan's elderly population, ensuring their safety, dignity, and quality of life as they age gracefully.

If you are interested in learning how ECP can improve quality of care, fill in your email below for a personalized demo.

Note - The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. ECP makes no warranties as to the accuracy of this content and does not commit to updating it as regulations change. Readers of this website should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal or compliance matter.

 

Form CTA

Back to blog
All posts