When it comes to assisted living, one size does not fit all. This is why it is important to do some homework prior to meeting with a facility director or taking a tour. Since you (or a loved one) will most likely remain at this residence long-term, it is important to select a place where all of your needs and wants are met. Assisted living apartments and condos vary widely in their offerings. Some offer activities and field trips, while others do not. Some offer to take you to the doctor when necessary, and some do not. Many facilities have a limit as to how many visitors you can have at a time, while others just ask you to be respectful of other residents. Understanding what assisted living is, what services are usually standard, what the typical costs are, and how to select a good one is a great place to start your research.
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted Living Facilities are condos, small homes, or apartments where adults who are basically independent but just need a little help now and again can go to live. However, many Assisted Living Facilities also offer a tiered care program so that as you age and require more assistance or care, you do not have to move, but rather just move to another level of care within the same facility. Basically, Assisted Living Facilities help you with tasks that you can no longer handle by yourself. Almost all Assisted Living Facilities have some form of accreditation or licensing in order to operate.
Typical Services at Assisted Living Facilities
You can expect to have your own private apartment, house, or townhouse at the Assisted Living Facility. Meals are provided, and most facilities allow you to choose how often you would like to participate in the meal plans. Some Assisted Living Facilities will deliver the meals to you, while others require you to enjoy your meals in the large dining area onsite. Support staff are generally available 24/7 and sometimes offer services such as laundry, light housekeeping, and help with basic daily activities.
In addition, some Assisted Living Facilities provide these services as well:
- Health monitoring
- Transportation
- Medication reminders
- Recreational activities and social opportunities
- Security services
What will an Assisted Living Facility Cost?
Assisted Living Facilities will cost you less than a nursing home, but on average, expect to spend around $25,000 -$50,000 a year. That is about $138 dollars a day. If you were staying at a nursing home, you would be paying approximately $290 a day. Additional services you add on will, of course, incur extra charges. While some insurance policies cover a percentage of the cost, most do not. Medicare and Medicaid do not at all. However, many agencies and organizations now exist to assist with the cost of senior living, so it is still possible to move into an Assisted Living Facility even if you do not personally have enough money. Thinking you will rely on Medicare or your Social Security payments to cover your monthly fees will lead to disappointment. Currently, the average Social Security Payment barely covers the cost of moving in. Typically, there is a one-time move-in free, which can run between $1,000-$5,000.
Types of Assisted Living Facilities
Maybe you do not need a full-time living situation but rather, just need a little extra help at home. Many seniors opt to have in-home care, so they can live in their house for as long as possible. There are many places to find someone who can check in on a regular basis and assist with light housekeeping, cooking, transportation to medical appointments and shopping. A good place to look for such individuals, who have been background checked and verified, is Care.com. However, check with your local Chamber of Commerce, as it is likely there are caregiving businesses located near you.
Senior Group Homes
Senior living communities consist of a smaller group of apartments, condos or smaller stand-alone tiny houses. These facilities are smaller, with fewer residents, but they promote a sense of community and interaction that many seniors lack in a stay-at-home situation. Residents in these types of facilities can live fairly independently and only require assistance with a few things.
Alzheimer’s and Memory Care Facilities
If your family member suffers from dementia of some form, then this type of care facility offers round-the-clock assistance. They are secure so that residents who become confused cannot wander out and get hurt. Medication is administered, and many facilities work with residents to try to slow the progression of dementia. This is a full-time, full-care type of facility.
Respite Care Facilities
This type of assisted living facility aims to give the senior caregiver a temporary break. For example, if you live with your daughter and she needs to leave town to visit her children, then you can go to the care facility until your daughter returns. This is similar to adult daycare, where you go for a few hours at a time while your caregiver runs needed errands.
Retirement Communities
Many active adult retirement communities also have several levels of care offered. Most retirement communities are geared toward those aged 55 or above. In the most cost-effective level, the resident does not require 24/7 medical attention, and daily care services are not needed. Transitional housing is often offered for those who are becoming less independent. Senior communities are often in a large area and may include shops, grocery stores, recreational activities, and more.
Choosing the Right Assisted Living Facility
One of the best tools you have for selecting a good assisted living situation is a pencil and paper or an excel spreadsheet if you prefer. Create a list of must-have amenities. Here are some to get you started:
- Must allow pets.
- Must allow more than one visitor at a time.
- Must have social activities.
- Offers transportation to medical appointments
- Offers light housekeeping
- Offers a meal plan
- Transitional housing for when you are not as independent
- How close is the facility to your family and friends?
- Are you able to move your favorite things into the apartment?
- Are there spiritual activities, such as prayer service offered?
Most facilities now have websites where you can access the handbook for the facility. Check the policy on those seniors who have physical disabilities. Read online reviews of the facility to get an unbiased report of how this facility is viewed by others with real experience there. Make sure to find out the level of training caregivers and workers receive. Are they fingerprinted and is a background check run?
