Assisted Living Facilities
Choosing an assisted living facility is a very personal decision. You should focus on whether the facility feels friendly and comfortable to you. Amenities are important, but what really matters is the people you will meet there.
It is a good idea to visit multiple facilities. Take your loved one with you and pay attention to details.
assisted living facilities
Assisted living facilities, also called residential care homes or board and cares, provide housing for older adults who want to live in a home-like setting but require non-medical assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, grooming and eating. They typically offer three meals a day, housekeeping, transportation services and social activities. They can be found in all sizes, from large, national chain facilities to small privately-owned homes. Some are licensed to provide memory care, as well.
When choosing an assisted living facility, it’s important to visit several options and choose one that feels friendly and familiar. Look for common areas that encourage residents to interact with each other and staff members, as well as social and recreational activities from book clubs to art classes.
does medicare pay for assisted living
Assisted living offers seniors a place to live and socialize while receiving the support they need. The cost varies from state to state. Some states have programs to help pay for it. Many people fund their assisted living care through long term care insurance policies or with savings. Others may be able to get financial aid from the Department of Veterans Affairs or their local Medicaid agency.
Most Medicare plans don’t cover assisted living costs. It doesn’t pay for the rent of a private apartment or room or the non-medical help with daily activities like bathing and dressing. But some seniors can qualify for the Assisted Living Program through their county DSS office. The criteria for eligibility vary by state. To be eligible, the individual must require a nursing home level of care and meet income requirements.
how much is assisted living
Most assisted living facilities have a pricing structure that reflects the level of care needed, with lower levels of assistance resulting in lower fees. These fees can vary from one facility to another, but most will provide a detailed list of services and costs at the time of move-in and on an annual basis or upon a change in care needs.
As you research the different options available, it is recommended that you visit several residences and speak to administrators, staff members and residents. Be sure to ask questions regarding the cost of housing, entrance fees and monthly rent. In addition, make sure you understand the cancellation policy and what happens if your loved one requires more or less care. Then you can better determine if assisted living is the best option for your family member.
who pays for assisted living
Most assisted living residents pay for the services they receive from their personal resources, such as income, private savings, or long-term care insurance. Some seniors can also apply for government programs that help make assisted living affordable, like the Medicaid Home and Community Based Waiver. These waivers have various eligibility requirements, which include health-related assessments and a financial assessment.
Seniors may also sell their home to cover the cost of assisted living. However, it is important to note that this option will not work for everyone. If the home still has a mortgage, it will likely be more difficult to sell for enough money to cover long-term care costs. Another option is to consider a reverse mortgage. The American Council on Aging can provide a free, easy-to-use tool to find options for financing care.
assisted living vs nursing home
As the name suggests, assisted living is designed for seniors who need assistance with daily activities but do not require the level of care provided in a nursing home. Typically, these facilities have their own apartments or rooms and offer housekeeping services, meals, transportation, and social programs.
They also focus on keeping residents healthy, socially engaged, and active. This contrasts with nursing homes, which provide around-the-clock medical attention for more serious health conditions.
When choosing an assisted living facility, look beyond the superficial details. Most importantly, make sure that the place feels warm and friendly to your parent. It is important to find a place where they will feel comfortable and able to develop new friendships. If possible, tour several options to see which one fits best.
