Choosing Assisted Living Facilities
Assisted living residences offer residents a home-like environment without the responsibility of cooking, cleaning and raking leaves. These residences typically provide three meals a day and housekeeping services as part of their base rent and included services.
To choose an assisted living facility, visit the location at different times-during activities and mealtimes, for example-and talk with administrators, staff and current residents. It’s also important to consider the cost of the facility.
assisted living facilities
Assisted living is a residential option for seniors that provides meals, housekeeping, and 24-hour supervision. It also offers transportation, activities, and a safe environment.
Many people choose to move to assisted living when their physical health declines and they no longer want to worry about cooking, cleaning, or raking leaves. It’s also a good choice if a person can no longer drive safely or is having trouble navigating stairs or getting to medical appointments.
Assisted living communities typically offer a variety of social and recreational activities, such as group fitness classes, art workshops, and book clubs. Some offer guest lecturers and university professors to teach popular topics. They also have amenities that promote accessibility and mobility, such as raised toilets and hallway hand railings.
does medicare pay for assisted living
Many seniors choose assisted living for the convenience and social interaction it provides. They can also rely on the assistance of staff with daily tasks like bathing and dressing that become difficult to manage at home. Those on limited incomes may be eligible for assistance with the cost of living at an assisted living facility through Medicaid’s Assisted Living Program. Other options for funding the costs of assisted living include long-term care insurance and reverse mortgages. Veterans can also receive help paying for long-term care and assisted living with Aid & Attendance benefits.
If you are unsure of how to pay for the cost of assisted living, speak with an elder law attorney. They can assist you with applying for Medicaid, understanding your rights and disputing denied claims.
how much is assisted living
In addition to considering what amenities are important to your loved one, it’s a good idea to ask for a copy of the facility’s contract. This will detail fees, services and admission and discharge policies.
Some communities charge a single monthly fee; others may provide services on an as-needed basis. Depending on your loved one’s needs, this might make more financial sense for you and your family.
Be sure to visit a few different facilities, and take your loved one with you when possible. It’s important for them to feel comfortable in their new home. Also, make a point to talk to staff and residents about the community. It’s an opportunity to learn about what life in a Life Plan Community is really like.
who pays for assisted living
A majority of seniors who reside in assisted living use their personal income and assets to pay for the routine services that are provided. These services include emergency response systems, daily scheduled activities, physical and occupational therapy, medical social service, medication management, and transportation. Some assisted living communities also offer additional services for an extra cost, such as specialized laundry and equipment for Alzheimer’s or dementia patients.
In addition, some senior residents are able to use their Medicaid benefits, though this will vary by state. Some states have enrollment caps and long wait lists, while others allow a small portion of assisted living costs to be covered by Medicaid funds. If you’re interested in this option, visit your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more.
assisted living vs nursing home
While the terms “assisted living” and “nursing home” are often used interchangeably, they’re actually two different types of care. Nursing homes focus on managing medical needs, while assisted living is all about promoting holistic well-being with daily social engagement, nutritious meals, and activities.
Generally, a person moves to an assisted living facility when they can’t live alone but don’t need the round-the-clock health care provided in a nursing home. Residents have their own apartments or rooms, and staff are available around the clock to assist with daily tasks such as bathing and dressing. They also provide access to community meals and activities. Many states offer home and community-based waivers to help lower the cost of assisted living. It’s a good idea to visit these facilities and talk about options with your loved one before making the decision.
