helpful Resources
Because Choosing the Right Home Shouldn’t Be Overwhelming
We understand that finding the right home and level of care for your loved one is a deeply personal journey — one that can bring both hope and uncertainty. This page was created to offer helpful tools, checklists, and guidance to make that process easier. Here, you’ll find important resources designed to inform, support, and empower you as you explore your options.
Whether you’re just beginning your search or preparing for admission, our goal is to help you feel confident and cared for every step of the way.
Wexford County Council on Aging (WCCOA)
Serving Cadillac and surrounding areas, this county-level agency offers programs like Meals on Wheels, incontinence product assistance, medical equipment lending, and senior support services. Wexford County Council On Aging+1Michigan Area Agency on Aging / State Aging & Adult Services
Acts as the umbrella for local aging services. They help families find home- and community-based support, navigate Medicaid waivers, and connect with resources throughout Michigan. areaagencyonaging.org+2Michigan+2MI Choice Waiver Program (Medicaid HCBS Waiver)
A Medicaid waiver program that allows individuals who need nursing-home level care to receive services in their home or residential setting instead. It can cover supports like bathing, dressing, transportation, and case management. The Senior Alliance+3Michigan+3Michigan+3Reliance (MI Choice/Community Care Partners)
Reliance helps administer the MI Choice Waiver in certain counties. They provide case management, assessment, care planning, and connect program participants with needed services. relianceccp.orgLocal Veteran Services / VA Offices
For veterans or surviving spouses, local VA offices (or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs) can offer benefits, aid & attendance, pension, and long-term care support. (Contact the nearest VA regional office.)Doctor’s Offices & Care Facility Referral Networks
Your primary care physician, geriatrician, or hospital discharge planners often maintain a list of reputable assisted living homes and care options in the area. Ask them for referrals.Real Life Living Services (RLLS)
A nonprofit agency in Cadillac that provides in-home care, personal assistance, and community support services. They help bridge care needs for those living at home. Real Life Living ServicesComfort Keepers (Cadillac, MI)
A home care provider offering companion care, mobility assistance, meal preparation, and more. Useful as a resource if someone is not ready—or not eligible—for a residential setting. Comfort KeepersCaregiver Support Groups & Regional Networks
Local caregiver groups, Alzheimer’s/dementia support, Parkinson’s networks, etc., can provide emotional support, shared experience, and practical advice. E.g. Northwest Michigan Caregiver Support Groups list groups in Cadillac. Aging Agency of Northwest MIMichigan.gov / State Directories & Resources
The Michigan state website offers resources to locate licensed adult foster care homes, long-term care facilities, waiver programs, official regulations, and contact information.
What to Expect When Moving Into an AFC Home
Moving into an Adult Foster Care (AFC) home can feel like a big change — for both residents and their families. The first few days are all about getting comfortable, building trust with staff, and becoming familiar with new surroundings. Residents are encouraged to bring personal belongings, favorite blankets, and familiar items that make their space feel like home. The staff will assist with unpacking, medication setup, and getting to know each resident’s daily preferences — from meal times and routines to hobbies and interests.
Families can expect open communication during this time. Most AFC homes, including Pleasant Lake Lodge, have a structured onboarding process to review care plans, medications, and any special needs. The first week often includes gentle orientation, meeting other residents, and joining group activities. It’s normal to feel emotional during this transition, but our team is here to make the process smooth, supportive, and filled with reassurance — helping residents feel safe, valued, and part of our community from day one.
Questions to Ask During a Tour
Visiting a potential home is one of the most important steps in finding the right care environment. Asking the right questions helps families feel confident and ensures the home can meet their loved one’s needs. Some key questions to consider include:
What level of care do you provide (personal care, medication management, mobility assistance, etc.)?
How many staff are on duty during the day and overnight?
What training do your caregivers receive?
What types of meals and activities are offered?
How do you handle emergencies or changes in health?
Are medical professionals available on-site or by visit?
What is included in the monthly rate, and what services are additional?
Don’t hesitate to ask to see living spaces, bathrooms, common areas, and outdoor spaces. Take note of how staff interact with residents — genuine warmth and patience are just as important as the physical environment. At Pleasant Lake Lodge, we encourage families to ask anything they wish; transparency is key to making a decision that feels right for everyone involved.
Signs It Might Be Time for Additional Support
Knowing when it’s time to seek more care can be difficult — especially when your loved one insists they’re managing “just fine.” However, there are often gentle signs that additional support could make their life safer and more enjoyable. Watch for frequent falls or unsteadiness, missed medications, spoiled food or poor nutrition, changes in hygiene, confusion, or forgetfulness that affects safety. Emotional signs — like withdrawal, loneliness, or frustration — are just as important to notice.
Another signal may be the toll it takes on family caregivers. When caring for your loved one starts to affect your own health, sleep, or relationships, it’s a sign that professional help may be needed. AFC homes offer relief and reassurance by providing 24-hour care, healthy meals, medication management, and companionship. At Pleasant Lake Lodge, we believe asking for help isn’t giving up — it’s ensuring your loved one gets the attention, dignity, and quality of life they truly deserve.
How to Talk to a Loved One About Moving Into Care
Discussing the move into assisted living or an AFC home can be one of the hardest — and most emotional — conversations for families. It’s natural for your loved one to feel anxious, defensive, or even hurt by the idea. The key is approaching the topic with compassion, patience, and reassurance. Start by expressing concern for their safety, comfort, and well-being rather than focusing on what they can’t do anymore. Phrases like, “We just want to make sure you’re safe and cared for,” or “We want you to have company and support every day,” can shift the tone from loss to love.
Involving them in the decision-making process also helps. Tour homes together, show photos, and highlight the benefits — home-cooked meals, social activities, caring staff, and less worry about daily tasks. Encourage them to share what’s most important to them in a new home so they feel heard and included. At Pleasant Lake Lodge, we’ve seen many residents blossom once they experience the comfort and connection of a supportive environment — but that transition begins with a heartfelt, respectful conversation.
Understanding the Difference Between AFC, Assisted Living, and Nursing Homes
Families often use these terms interchangeably, but each type of care setting serves different needs.
An Adult Foster Care (AFC) home, like Pleasant Lake Lodge, provides 24-hour personal care in a small, home-like setting. Residents receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, meals, and medication management. AFC homes emphasize independence, dignity, and comfort in a community-based environment with trained caregivers, not medical staff.
Assisted Living facilities are typically larger communities that offer similar support services but with more amenities and social activities. They often cater to more independent seniors who still benefit from some assistance with daily routines but want apartment-style living and more structured recreational options.
Nursing Homes, on the other hand, provide the highest level of medical care outside of a hospital. They are staffed by licensed nurses and focus on rehabilitation, medical monitoring, and complex health management for individuals with significant medical or physical needs.
Choosing between the three often depends on your loved one’s physical abilities, health conditions, and desired lifestyle. For those who need help with daily living in a family-style environment, AFC homes often provide the perfect balance of support and independence.