Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) Practice Test

Can a facility accept residents diagnosed with a mental disorder that is unrelated to dementia?

1. Yes, under special circumstances

2. Yes, if they can manage independently

3. No, they cannot accept such residents

4. Only with approval from a family member

The correct answer is: No, they cannot accept such residents

In the context of Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE), the regulations and guidelines about the acceptance of residents with mental disorders that are unrelated to dementia are typically stringent. Facilities are primarily designed to serve individuals who do not require intensive medical care or specialized behavioral support. The correct response indicates that such residents cannot be accepted, reflecting the necessity for facilities to ensure that their environment is safe and conducive to the well-being of all residents. This is because residents with unmanaged mental health issues may exhibit behaviors or require interventions that a standard RCFE may not be equipped to handle. Facilities must maintain a level of stability and safety, and accepting residents whose mental health conditions could escalate or who require significant oversight may compromise that. Therefore, a facility's inability to accept residents with unrelated mental disorders underscores the importance of implementing appropriate care standards, which help in providing a secure and supportive living environment for the elderly population.