When caring for an older adult becomes difficult, or they become a safety risk living alone, assisted living can be an affordable alternative to staying home. It also eliminates the stress of heavy cleaning, cooking, and home maintenance. However, financing this move can be a challenge. Many options include bridge loans, long-term care insurance, and veterans benefits.
Cost
As a business, assisted living residences struggle with the same budgetary pressures as other businesses. They generally charge an additional fee for services not included in the monthly rent to offset these costs. It can include anything from laundry service to upgraded WiFi. You’ll want to know what your loved one will pay for and how the facility tallies these charges. In most states, residents pay for assisted living through private funds, which can come from retirement accounts, investments, and pooling personal assets. Many older citizens also use long-term care insurance, which can pay for a portion of assisted living expenses. Individuals over Medicaid’s asset limit may wish to consider working with a Medicaid planning professional who can creatively structure their financial assets not to exceed the state’s maximum limits.
Staff
Assisted living communities employ administrators, case managers, and various healthcare workers. These include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and certified nursing assistants. Staff members help residents with daily activities, monitor health conditions and communicate with outside physicians. Unlike other medical facilities, assisted living facilities Missouri is designed for long-term stays, where patients may come and go every few days. Staff often develop close relationships with residents and learn their stories and lives. When driving becomes unsafe or car ownership a hassle, transportation is a valuable service many assisted living communities to offer. Residents can rest easy knowing someone else will drive them to shop, dining, events, or doctor appointments. Staff also manage medications and ensure seniors take their prescribed medication as instructed.
Meals
Generally, assisted living facilities offer three meals a day plus snacks. Many have on-site dieticians and chefs who craft meals that benefit seniors from body and mind.
In addition to a wide selection of menu choices, some communities allow residents to order online, by phone, or by mail for items they’d like to receive. It can make mealtime more fun and convenient for seniors. Most senior care community residents pay for their assisted living fees from their resources or with help from long-term care insurance. Some states have home and community-based waivers to help lower-income seniors afford assisted living.
Transportation
Assisted living communities typically offer transportation services to help seniors stay engaged in their community. During tours, ask about the types of trips included in the cost, whether or not escorts are available, and how far the service area extends. Your elderly loved one may require more help with daily activities like getting dressed, bathing, and eating as they age. These warning indicators indicate that relocating to an assisted living facility could be necessary. If you need help with the best care option for your family, consult a long-term care planning professional. These experts can help you plan for the future by analyzing your options and creating a roadmap for proper care.
Activities
Assisted living communities offer various experiences, from social activities to leisure trips. It can help seniors reduce loneliness and isolation, which are common problems for older adults who live alone. Ask about the community’s suggestions, complaints, grievance procedures, and whether it has resident and family councils. Also, ask if it offers fitness and wellness programs and how these are modified for residents with limited mobility. Academic activities like guest lecturers and classes on popular topics may be offered. Technology assistance is also commonly available. Some communities are designed to minimize falls with features like raised toilets, flat thresholds, and hallway hand railings.
