The US aging population is booming thanks to increases in life expectancy. There’s a corresponding boom in the number of assisted living facilities. Some facilities are designed like apartment buildings while others have cottages. Here are some tips on selecting a facility.
Is Assisted Living Right for Me?
Seniors who need a little help with daily chores should consider assisted living. The facility’s staff helps residents with their individual needs. Most facilities have a choice for dining. Guests may cook in their rooms or eat in the communal dining room. Go online and see what various facilities like Sunrise at East 56th have to offer. Ideally, the facility should have a lot to offer like a beauty salon, chapel, and fun trips.
Quality of Care
Ask your family to help you investigate a facility’s licensing and inspection records. Look for any red flags that indicate a person might not want to live there. The best facilities have an RN on duty to deal with medication management. The RN is available to determine whether a guest needs to see a physician.
Make several trips to a facility before deciding to move in. Visit at different times of the day and make a list of questions. Talk to residents or their families, if possible. The resident is the best source to answer questions about the quality of care. Remember, staff members are trying to find another paying resident.
The Cost
Assisted living is expensive and there’s no way around it. Statistics show the national average price for a one-bedroom is $4,050 per month. Interestingly, Missouri has the most affordable facilities at $2881 per month. A one-bedroom in a New Hampshire facility could cost you over $7000 a month.
Payment Methods
Seniors who’ve planned for retirement often use savings to pay for assisted living. In addition, 401k plans and pensions are used to pay the costs and there are those who’ve invested in long-term care insurance. Remember, consumers may not be able to purchase long-term care if they’re past 50. It’s not uncommon for seniors to cash in life insurance to cover assisted living costs. You may have bought life insurance to benefit your family. However, don’t feel guilty using the funds for your immediate needs.
Qualified military veterans may obtain financial aid from the Veterans Administration. One of the VA benefits is specifically for veterans who are disabled due to service-related injuries. Nonetheless, aid is available to help veterans live in other residential settings. Medicare does not cover assisted living, and Medicaid only pays for low-income individuals.
Specialized Care
Many seniors need specialized care for Alzheimer’s and dementia. 60 percent of all facilities offer memory care services. Further, a fourth of assisted living facilities have a dedicated area for memory care patients. Specialized care is also available for those with diabetes, depression, and Parkinson’s Disease.
Seniors also want to know that they will be safe. Federal law dictates that facilities have a safety plan. Moreover, staff members must undergo rigorous criminal background checks. The facility should have emergency plans in place in the event of a fire or natural disaster.
Assisted living is a good choice for seniors who are able to do some things for themselves. Residents can maintain a sense of independence while getting help when needed. Facilities should be safe, offer excellent quality of care, and provide specialized services.
