Assisted Living Facilities
Assisted living facilities, also called residential care homes or senior living communities, offer housing and services to seniors who require help with daily activities. Many have specialized units or floors for people with dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease. They also have amenities for residents with physical disabilities, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and specific medical conditions.
assisted living facilities
Assisted living is a good option for seniors who can no longer manage on their own. It can help them avoid falls and other injuries that could be dangerous to their health. These facilities are often designed with safety features like raised toilets, flat thresholds, and hallway hand railings. Some even have fitness centers, personal trainers, and group exercise classes.
However, if your loved one requires more extensive care, it may be best to opt for a nursing home instead. These facilities offer 24-hour supervision and medical care to ensure their residents’ health needs are met. They also provide meals and housekeeping services. They typically require a monthly fee for accommodations, personal care, and health-related services. However, some long-term care insurance policies cover these costs.
does medicare pay for assisted living
Many aging adults assume that Medicare pays for the cost of assisted living, which is not true. The only way Medicare may help with the costs of an assisted living facility is if a senior meets the income requirements for traditional Medicaid or receives a waiver. Other financial assistance options for aging adults include long-term care insurance, personal and retirement savings, life or home equity loans, and veteran benefits.
Individuals who wish to avoid the cost of a nursing home can purchase long-term care insurance, which typically covers short-term stays in an assisted living facility. It’s also worth consulting with a Medicaid planning professional, as they can creatively structure assets to make them exempt from asset limits for assisted living programs. This includes finding ways to make the home owner-occupied and limiting assets in non-retirement accounts like 401(k)s and 403(b). These strategies vary by state.
how much is assisted living
Assisted living facilities, sometimes known as residential care homes or adult residence communities, provide housing and personal care services. Some offer meals and housekeeping, and others have specialized memory care. Some also offer medical and nursing services. Typically, a person will pay a monthly fee for the housing and basic services. The fees may increase for more extensive services, such as memory care.
It’s important to compare prices and services before making a decision. It’s also important to visit the facility and talk with staff and residents. The National Center for Assisted Living recommends visiting a few times and observing the environment during mealtime and other activities. Many older adults use their own savings, investments, retirement account funds and financial support from family members to help pay for assisted living. Some people also have long-term care insurance, which covers the cost of care at assisted living facilities.
who pays for assisted living
Many people use private funds from personal savings, retirement accounts, investments and financial support from family members to pay for assisted living. It is also possible for seniors to sell their homes to help cover the costs of care.
Most assisted living communities offer a bundled package of services for a monthly fee, including meals, 24-hour supervision and security, activities and more. Some communities offer additional amenities like memory care for residents with Alzheimer’s and dementia, which may increase the cost.
The State of Texas’ Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) reimburses the cost of assisted living for seniors who qualify. Seniors who are looking for help covering the cost of assisted living should contact their Area Agency on Aging to determine if they’re eligible.
assisted living vs nursing home
Assisted living homes offer a variety of services that include meals, housekeeping, transportation, and social programs. These services may be included in the facility’s monthly fee or offered for a separate price.
Some facilities offer specialized services, such as memory care. Others provide residents with their own private apartments with a kitchen area and bathroom. Residents may also have access to a private physician.
If your loved one’s health has deteriorated to the point where they require more care than you or their family can provide, it might be time for assisted living. This option provides around-the-clock support, allowing older adults to enjoy their independence and freedom. It also provides a chance to connect with others and engage in activities that are beneficial to their mental and physical health.
