Choosing Assisted Living Facilities
If your loved one is finding it challenging to keep up with the responsibilities of maintaining their home, an assisted living facility may be an option. But with so many options available, how can you make the right choice?
Consider creating a list of needs and wants. Then, narrow down your choices to facilities that offer both.
assisted living facilities
Assisted living is home-like housing for older adults who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and maintaining good hygiene. These facilities typically offer meals, housekeeping, laundry, and transportation services. They also offer social programs and activities to enhance mental stimulation, physical health, and social connections.
Residents pay a monthly rent for their private apartment and an additional fee for the level of care they need. This facility-based care is available in a variety of settings, from simple to luxurious.
When choosing an assisted living facility, visit the location and observe how the staff interacts with the residents. Also, check the facility’s licensing report and ask about suggestions, grievances, and complaints procedures. Many states regulate assisted living and have online complaint databases.
does medicare pay for assisted living
Medicare does not pay for the cost of living in an assisted living residence. However, New York’s Medicaid program may cover some of these costs if you meet income and asset eligibility requirements. Medicaid also provides home care services through the MLTC waiver or HCBS program, which helps delay nursing home placements. These programs are generally not entitlement programs and have limited spots available.
Those who wish to apply for Medicaid assistance should consult with a long-term care planning professional. These professionals can help you creatively structure your assets to ensure you can access Medicaid benefits. In New York, the Assisted Living Program allows married couples to exempt the value of their home from consideration. This can be beneficial for couples who require care but one spouse remains healthy.
how much is assisted living
Unlike a home mortgage or monthly rental payment, assisted living rates include more than just housing costs. They also cover meals, housekeeping and personal care services. A person’s individual needs will determine which charges are added to the base price. For example, help with specific activities of daily living (ADLs) might be charged as an extra.
Many assisted living facilities do not list their prices on their websites, and those that do often give only a range or starting price. To get a more accurate pricing quote, a family member should talk to the residence directly.
It’s important to find a community that offers affordable options for seniors, and that you and your loved one can afford long term. It is also helpful to have a backup plan, such as long-term care insurance, or Medicaid.
who pays for assisted living
As you consider options for your loved one’s care, you’ll want to know who pays for assisted living. Most people pay out of their own private resources (private pay). This can be from personal savings or from funds provided by family members.
Assisted living residences also provide on-site access to healthcare and pharmacy services. This can be a lifesaver when driving becomes unsafe or just too much of a hassle.
Some residents may be able to get help from their local Medicaid program. This assistance can cover some or all room and board costs in an assisted living residence. However, the requirements, qualifications and coverage options vary by state. For more information, New York families can contact their county department on aging or a Medicaid planning professional.
assisted living vs nursing home
Assisted living (also known as adult care or residential care) is a place to live for seniors who need some help with daily tasks but do not need the round-the-clock medical supervision that is provided in a nursing home. These facilities, which can range in size from a few dozen people to 120 or more, provide personal care services such as meals and laundry, and they also offer assistance with bathing and medication management.
To ensure that you find the right home for your loved one, make sure to visit several locations and talk with staff members. You should also ask about the facility’s suggestions, complaints and grievance procedures. It is also important to find out whether it has a plan for dealing with emergencies, such as an accidental fall.
