An Introduction to Adult Foster Care and AFC Home Requirements

Many of us are familiar with foster care for children in Alabama. But how many of us realize that there are adults who need a foster home as well? Through hardships or circumstances beyond their control, quite a few adults find themselves in need of a “helping hand.” Some are elderly men and women whose families are unable or unavailable to care for them. Others may be elderly or disabled young adults living on their own and cannot care for themselves.

Are these adults any less deserving of our devotion and care simply because they are older? Absolutely not. Foster care for an elderly or young disabled adult not only warms their hearts and minds (as well as yours); it also allows them to remain a vital part of our community.

Who are Adults Needing Care?

These individuals are:

  • Adults (age 18 and older) who cannot live alone nor with their natural families due to risk of abuse, neglect or exploitation.
  • Adults without families of their own, or have families that are unable to care for them.
  • Handicapped or elderly victims of abuse, neglect or exploitation.
  • Adults that can live safely in a normal family home setting, but may require assistance or supervision with dressing, feeding, hygiene or other daily life activitie

Adult Foster Care Home Requirements

Your commitment and ability are the key ingredients.

Families or individuals interested in providing foster care for adults are subject to an approval process. The main requirement is to have the ability and desire to provide the type of care needed by the person served. The following list includes a few of the requirements for AFC providers:

  • The prospective FC provider must be 19 years or older.
  • Must be able to read and write.
  • Must have a valid Alabama driver’s license and liability insurance on the automobile. Must be qualified to provide foster care by virtue of training, experience, and receive the information necessary to prepare for a rewarding experience.
  • Must have sufficient income to meet own needs.
  • Work must not interfere with providing care for the client.
  • All household members must be willing to accept the AFC client.
  • The home must have telephone access and adequate space for the client.
  • Potential AFC provider must have a substitute care provider.