Board and care in Illinois describes residential facilities that provide a room, housekeeping, and meals to fewer than twelve persons who are unrelated. Residents of board and care must be capable of independent self-care. Thousands of elderly, disabled, and mentally ill persons are residents of board and care homes in Illinois.

Board and Care homes are not licensed or regulated in Illinois, although owners can voluntarily register their home. The vast majority of board and care home owners work hard to provide good care, but incidents of abuse or exploitation do occur and should be reported to the regional elder abuse agency. If there are life safety code violations or if the board and care home provides medical care beyond that allowed by law, they can be reported to the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services.

The cost of living in a board and care home varies with the location and the services provided. In some cases, the rent includes all specified services; in others, services can be an additional charge. The average monthly fee varies from $450 to $2,000 a month.

It is important to visit a home before you decide to move in. Talk with other residents. Look at the private room you may occupy. Ask about the services provided. Learn where or how laundry and heavy chores are done and how charges are determined. Most important, make sure that all the arranged services and fees are specified in the contract you sign with the facility.

Ask someone you trust to help you, or call for help from a Case Manager. Case Manager’s in Illinois can also give you a free assessment to determine your other home care options.

The Egyptian Area Agency on Aging does not endorse any specific board and care home. Information about this or any other services for senior adults can be obtained through any local senior adult center or by contacting us.

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