Assisted Living Facilities
Assisted living facilities are a great way for your loved one to remain at home while getting the care they need. They provide assistance with daily activities, but also focus on your parent’s health needs and their personal preferences.
Choosing an assisted living facility is a big decision, and one that should be made with plenty of research. It’s important to find a community that prioritizes safety, cleanliness, and a sense of community.
assisted living facilities
Assisted living facilities are small, private, licensed residential care homes that provide personal care assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). Residents usually pay monthly rent for a private apartment or room and an additional fee for the level of care they require.
Unlike nursing homes, assisted living facilities do not offer comprehensive health care on-site. They are best suited for seniors who need assistance with ADLs but do not need the specialized medical care of a nursing home.
Assisted living facilities often provide multiple opportunities for residents to exercise and socialize. Many of these programs and classes are adapted to meet the needs of all physical abilities.
does medicare pay for assisted living
Medicare is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to people with limited incomes. The program is designed to help low-income seniors and adults with disabilities pay for medical expenses.
Assisted living facilities are not covered by Medicare. However, some private Medicare Advantage plans may provide additional services to cover the costs of assisted living.
Some states offer Medicaid to cover some of the costs of assisted living for eligible residents. The coverage varies by state, but most commonly includes custodial care and housekeeping services.
how much is assisted living
Assisted living costs vary significantly by location, age and level of care required. But in general, the cost of an assisted living apartment is around $4,500 a month.
Depending on the community’s pricing structure, this could include rent, care services and meals. It might also be a la carte, where residents can add or remove services at their own discretion.
Assisted living is often considered an affordable alternative to nursing homes. However, it can be difficult to navigate the process of funding your loved one’s room and board.
who pays for assisted living
The majority of families pay for assisted living out of pocket, with Medicaid (a state-regulated program that provides free or low-cost health care to people with limited income and resources) or through private long-term care insurance. Some also use life insurance, a reverse mortgage or retirement accounts to help cover the costs of senior care.
The cost of assisted living will vary based on the type of facility, amenities offered and the level of care needed. The national median rate is $4,500 a month.
If you qualify for Medicaid, the government will cover some of your assisted living costs if you live in an approved community or receive a waiver. However, Medicaid is a state-regulated resource and the rules vary from state to state. Some states have enrollment caps and long waiting lists to qualify for coverage.
assisted living vs nursing home
If your parent needs care beyond what can be provided at home, it may be time to look into an assisted living facility. This type of care is often ideal for seniors who need assistance but want to live as independently as possible.
Nursing homes, also known as skilled nursing facilities or long-term care homes, provide around-the-clock care for people who cannot be taken care of at home or in an assisted living community. They usually have nurses on staff 24 hours a day and physical, occupational and speech therapists.
Nursing homes have hospital beds and medical equipment, but they try to create a home-like atmosphere for residents. Many are small, private facilities with 20 or fewer residents.
