ASSISTED LIVING
What is an assisted living community? Many of our aging seniors think of assisted living as a nursing home. Assisted living is far from being a nursing home. It allows as much independence as possible. They are a community within a building that provides some help with activities of daily living. Assisted living is much more cost effective than privately paying for a nursing home. They will offer broader support of activities, meals and entertainment; offer a social life different from that of nursing homes.
There are many types and styles of senior living communities, from the largest buildings to residential homes. Some assisted living communities house up to 300 residents to 6 residents.
There are different levels of care. Level I for those who are self-ambulatory, able to get out of bed on their own and into the dining room. Level II for those who require assistance getting out of bed, dressing, going to the bathroom, and showering. Medication reminders and some incontinence care are also provided. Two-person aids for getting out of bed and extensive incontinence are not usually offered, which means they may need to go to a nursing facility for additional care.
As you look at senior communities, there are certain things to ask yourself. Is it necessary to make a deposit? Is the deposit refundable? Are there moving fees? What does the base rent charge cover? Is transportation to doctor’s appointments covered? How often do you offer transportation? Do you allow pets, smoking? Do you charge for personal laundry? What levels of care are offered and how much does each level of care cost? Some communities have levels 1-5 or A, B and C, or some offer a la carte services where you can choose what services you need and only pay for them.
When touring senior communities, go unannounced. Look at the residents, are they happy and taken care of? Are the employees happy and work hard? What kind of smells? Go at lunch time and have lunch with them and see how the food measures up. Check the cleanliness of the apartments. Are they short on staff? Can you bring your own furniture? Are family and friends allowed to visit?
Make sure and take into account the costs. Are you able to afford this? How long will my savings or money last? Many people live longer and live off their money. If I can’t pay my rent, will I be evicted? Some communities will accept Medicaid or state programs. Ask your local Agency on Aging what programs are available. The national average cost of assisted living for a one-bedroom apartment is about $2,900, which works out to $35,000 a year. You should also keep in mind that most assisted living communities will increase your costs each year by between 1% and 5%.
Nursing homes are an option, but are much more expensive when paid for privately; nearly double that of assisted living.
For veterans and their surviving spouses and spouses, there is the VA Aid and Aid pension that will pay for care. For a veteran $1,644, a veteran and her spouse $1,949 and a surviving spouse $1,056 per month tax-free. This will help with the cost of assisted living if approved.