Consumer Guide: Finding and Choosing an Adult Family Home

In Wisconsin, the Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) licenses and regulates assisted living facilities. Each type has a directory. In the adult family homes (AFHs) directory, you can find details about each AFH.

There's also a Glossary for Assisted Living Directories that helps define complex terms.

View AFH directory as a PDF

View AFH directory in Excel

What is an adult family home?

An AFH is a type of assisted living facility. It's a place where adults (aged 18 and older), who aren't related to the caregiver, live. AFH residents also get care that's beyond room and board. This can include up to seven hours per week of nursing care per person.

What services do AFHs offer?

AFHs offer services that may help with:

  • Advanced age.
  • AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).
  • Alcohol and other drug use.
  • Correctional clients.
  • Dementia.
  • Developmental disabilities.
  • Mental health problems.
  • Pregnancy (if also in need of counseling).
  • Physical disabilities.
  • Terminal illness.
  • Traumatic brain injury.

How are AFHs regulated in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, AFHs are licensed and regulated by type:

  • Three-bed and four-bed AFHs - These are regulated by DQA. They get licensed based on Wis. Admin. Code. ch. DHS 88.
  • One-bed and two-bed AFHs - These are regulated by each county's Human Services department.

All licensed AFHs must follow these laws:

AFHs that don't follow state laws can get their license taken away (based on Wis. Stat. ch. 50).

Adult family home resources

Expand the section that applies to you to view a list of resources. Select a link to learn more.

Last revised March 4, 2025