Is it permissible for an ARF to accept or retain a resident with an acute mental health disorder?

In the context of Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE), which includes Adult Residential Facilities (ARF), regulations clearly outline the types of residents that can be admitted. Accepting or retaining a resident with an acute mental health disorder poses significant risks that could affect the safety and well-being of all residents in the facility.

The primary focus of these rules is to ensure that the facility can provide the necessary level of care and support without jeopardizing the stability of the environment. Acute mental health disorders typically require specialized treatment and possibly hospitalization, which ARFs are not equipped to handle. Regulations are designed to protect residents from potential harm and to maintain a level of care that is appropriate to the needs of individuals within the facility.

In this context, while supervision is important in the care of residents with mental health issues, it does not mitigate the immediate risks associated with acute disorders. Therefore, facilities are prohibited from accepting or retaining individuals with acute mental health disorders to ensure a safe and supportive living environment for all residents.