Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2012 Residential Services	Dec. 31, 2011 Residential Services	Dec. 31, 2012 ResCare HomeCare	Dec. 31, 2011 ResCare HomeCare	Dec. 31, 2011 Youth Services	Dec. 31, 2012 Youth Services	Dec. 31, 2012 Workforce Services	Dec. 31, 2011 Workforce Services	Dec. 31, 2010 Workforce Services
Summary of changes to goodwill
Goodwill, net at the beginning of the period	$ 267,697	$ 247,305	$ 147,648	$ 138,180	$ 62,500	$ 52,303	$ 24,102	$ 24,829	$ 32,720	$ 32,720	$ 32,720
Goodwill added through acquisition	19,389	20,458	16,226	9,518	3,163	10,213	727
Other	1,179	(66)	1,179	(50)		(16)
Goodwill, net at the end of the period	$ 288,265	$ 267,697	$ 165,053	$ 147,648	$ 65,663	$ 62,500	$ 24,829	$ 24,829	$ 32,720	$ 32,720	$ 32,720