If you think assisted living is only for the elderly then you best think again. Illness or injury can befall anyone at any age. When something happens that challenges your or a loved one’s independence, assisted living may be the answer. But there are some things that should be considered from safety and security to socialization when selecting a facility. What counts is finding the right facility. One that offers the necessary resources and offerings in order to feel secure at a cost you can afford. Being able to have a feeling of independence is also key. Nearly every state has several assisted living communities available. To find one close to home, a simple online search using your city’s name like this, home-style senior living Albuquerque, will provide great facility results. Then investigate and find the one that offers your desired feeling of comfort and accessibility.
In order to find the best facility for you or your loved one, there are several things you need to consider. Here are a few topics to get you started.
There Are Different Levels of Care
Assisted living facilities go by several names, such as assisted living communities or senior facilities. It is important to distinguish the differences in what level of care is provided at the assisted living facility and to choose a community that offers the most cost-effective approach to care for you or your loved one. For example, an assisted living community often offers a residential approach to deliver the same type of services you could also get from a home health agency or personal care staff.
However, some assisted living communities provide less intensive care. It all depends on the licensing of the community and can vary from state-to-state. It is important to know what level of care you need and make sure the community is able to provide this level of care.
Every Community is Unique
Once you have identified assisted living facilities that offer the right level of care, it is also important to consider the culture of the community as well. Every community has a different design and environment. Some are more formal and traditional. While others are designed to be more cozy and homey.
Not only can the design vary, but also the size of the facility itself. For example, some may be an apartment complex or smaller, more residential-like buildings that house a small number of residents. It’s important to visit communities and meet with the residents and staff, in order to find the right fit for you or your loved one’s comfort level.
Some Communities Are Pet-Friendly
If you or your loved one has a pet that they do not want to part with, you can find a senior living community with a pet policy that works for you. Many communities have policies with specific breed restrictions or weight limits. It’s important to speak to the staff. Make sure you know whether your beloved pet will be able to become a resident too. Senior living facilities don’t only allow cats and dogs, but many also welcome birds or fish too!
Cost May Vary
The cost of assisted living will vary. Costs depends on the level of care you need and the state, even the city or state region you will reside in. Based on a National Center for Assisted Living report, the median cost for assisted living in the United States is about $4,000 per month ($48,000 a year). Some states will be higher while others are lower.
Paying For Assisted Living
Without having a long-term care insurance plan that covers assisted living, once you need it it’s too late to get it. At least get it easily or reasonably. Most people don’t financially plan ahead for long term care . That leaves paying for it out of pocket or relying on Medicaid if you have insufficient assets.
Medicare does not cover assisted living. However, depending on the type of advantage plan you’ve been paying for, it may include long term care choices. Medicaid is a possible funding source if you meet your State’s income requirements.
Those of retirement age will have their Social Security and any employer pension payment to put toward the monthly cost. Anything over that fixed income will have to come from other sources. It’s common for people to pay at least part of their assisted living cost out of pocket. This is where having good personal financial habits will pay off. Investments, savings accounts, and retirement accounts can be used to close funding gaps. If going to an assisted living facility means leaving your home unused, selling it for your equity can be another good source for funding.
To find the right assisted living facility, it is important to clearly define the level of care you need and to visit several communities in order to find the environment you or your loved one feels most comfortable living in.