Residential care refers to long-term care given to adults or children who stay in a residential setting rather than in their own home or family home. There are various residential care options available, depending on the needs of the individual. The ability of a person to feed oneself. Dressing: The ability to select appropriate clothes and to put the clothes on. Personal hygiene: The ability to bathe and groom oneself and maintain dental hygiene, nail, and hair care. Continence: The ability to control bladder and bowel function.