Group homes are small, residential facilities located within a community and designed to serve children or adults with special needs. These homes usually have six or fewer occupants and may or may not be staffed 24 hours a day by trained caregivers.

Most group homes are standard, single-family houses. One of the goals of group home living is to increase the independence of residents. Group home staff members may teach residents daily living and self-care skills, providing as little assistance as possible. Daily living skills include meal preparation, laundry, housecleaning, home maintenance, money management, and appropriate social interactions. Staff may also assure that residents receive necessary services from community service providers, including medical care, vocational training, education, and mental health services.

Group homes may provide varying services for different target populations. It’s important to understand the services provided and the rules that will be required of you if you live in a group home setting.