Questions, answered

Frequently asked questions

If you've never placed a loved one in care before, you probably have a lot of questions. Here are the ones we hear most often. Don't see yours? Call us at (503) 400-1010.

Real homes, real answers

We have answered these questions for hundreds of families.

And we will gladly answer yours, in plain language, with no pressure. Browse the list below or pick up the phone.

What is an adult foster home?

An adult foster home is a licensed residential care setting that serves a small number of adults (typically up to 5) in a real home, with 24-hour care and supervision. It's an alternative to assisted living or nursing facilities — more personal, more home-like, and often more affordable.

How is AAA Shepherd's different from assisted living?

Assisted living communities are typically large facilities with dozens or hundreds of residents, scheduled activities, common dining areas, and care provided by staff working in shifts across the whole facility. Our adult foster homes care for only a handful of residents at a time — real homes with private bedrooms, home-cooked meals, family-style living, and the same trusted caregivers day after day.

What does adult foster care cost in Oregon?

Costs vary based on level of care needed and room type. The median cost of adult foster care in Dallas, Oregon is roughly the same as or less than assisted living. We're happy to discuss specifics — call us at (503) 400-1010 and we'll walk through pricing for your situation.

Do you accept Medicaid?

We can discuss Medicaid coverage and other payment options during your initial consultation. Call us and we'll talk through what works for your family.

Is the home truly staffed 24/7?

Yes — and our overnight caregivers are awake and present, not just on call from another room. This is one of the most important features families look for, and we don't cut corners on it.

Can my loved one age in place with you?

In most cases, yes. With 24/7 awake staffing and hospice partnerships, we can support residents through many levels of need — from independent assistance to advanced dementia and end-of-life care.

Do you take residents with dementia or Alzheimer's?

Yes. We have experience caring for residents through all stages of dementia, including those who have lost mobility, speech, or recognition. Our small home environment reduces confusion and supports memory cues that big facilities cannot.

Can you support hospice care?

Yes. We partner with local hospice providers (Willamette Valley Hospice and others) and provide the daily presence and care that lets residents remain in our home through end of life.

What if my loved one needs care such as catheter management?

We're trained to handle a wide range of medical needs: catheter care, ostomy care, insulin and diabetic management, Hoyer lift transfers, and more. See our services page for the full list.

Can families visit anytime?

Yes. Family is welcome any time. Many of our families visit weekly or daily, and we have heard from countless families that visiting feels like coming home.

How do I know if AAA Shepherd's is the right fit?

The best way is to visit. We welcome tours — call (503) 400-1010 or schedule a visit online. Many families do a respite stay first to see how things go before committing long-term.

Where are your homes located?

We have two homes in Dallas, Oregon: 397 SE Ironwood Avenue and 130 NW Reed Lane. Both are in residential neighborhoods, not on busy streets.

Do you accept respite (short-term) stays?

Yes. We accommodate short-term respite care — anywhere from a few days to several weeks — so family caregivers can rest, travel, or recover. It's also a great way to try us out before committing long-term.

Are you Oregon-licensed?

Yes. We hold Oregon adult foster home licenses through the Oregon Department of Human Services. Nicole Carter is our owner and operator, and Whitney Workman is our administrator.

How do I schedule a tour?

Three ways: call (503) 400-1010, email aaashepherdsch@gmail.com, or use our online tour scheduling form. Tours typically take 30-45 minutes and there's no pressure or obligation.

Have a different question?

We're happy to talk through anything specific to your loved one's situation. There's no obligation and no pressure.

Schedule a Visit (503) 400-1010