Are you considering moving your elderly family member to a place with assisted living facilities? Deciding to transition a family member into such a place can be challenging but it is often needed as the person grows older.
Senior assisted living is an excellent choice for older adults who require help with some daily tasks but still wish to retain autonomy.
Assisted living at home allows senior family members to stay in a familiar place, but regular care and 24/7 professional assistance are not available.
Understanding the benefits, costs, and policies of assisted living facilities is extremely important to making the right decision regarding the care of your loved one.
This guide will explain everything important about assisted senior Living, starting with the major services provided, eligibility criteria, and costs involved.
What Is Senior Assisted Living?
Seniors Assisted Living is a unique type of housing that provides personal attention to the elderly, including help with activities of daily Living (ADL) like bathing, dressing, and even monitoring medications.
It differs from nursing homes regarding the extent of medical care offered. Nursing homes help seniors recover from medical ailments or rehabilitative therapies, unlike assisted living facilities, which help older people live more independently.
Freedom is an essential part of life, even in old age. Assisted Living promotes a sense of autonomy for seniors while ensuring that professionally trained staff is always present in case the tenants require help.
What Services Do Assisted Living Communities Offer?
Assisted living communities offer room rentals every month. Additional fees are typically applied for help with daily activities, mobility, or other services as needed. Rentals tend to cover the following services:
Private Living Quarters: Apartments range from studios to one/or two bedroom apartments complete with kitchenettes according to the community’s pricing model.
Home Maintenance & Repairs: Management is responsible for landscaping and appliance maintenance, such as air conditioning or dishwasher maintenance.
Nutritious Meals: The rent usually covers up to three meals daily, with snacks available throughout the day and night.
Emergency Medical Alert System: Many residences are pre-equipped with an emergency call facility to summon staff or other emergency services as required for such events.
Laundry & Housekeeping: Laundry and cleaning services are usually included.
Scheduled Transportation: Free transportation for grocery shopping, medical appointments, and other essential errands is often provided.
Activities & Outings: Activities may include educational sessions, cultural events, social and recreational activities, plays, and informative and recreational lectures.
Classes: Many communities offer painting, writing, yoga, fitness, technology, and home safety classes.
Additional Services (for an Extra Fee)
The following services may be offered for some additional charges
- Help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Support with nutrition, personal hygiene, clothing management, and medication scheduling.
- On-Site Healthcare or Pharmacy: Healthcare professionals or pharmacy services are available at an added cost.
- Beauty & Barber Services: Salon and barbershop services are rendered at an added cost.
- Upgraded WiFi: Increased internet speeds can be arranged at no extra fee.
What Are the Requirements for Assisted Living?
Eligibility Criteria for Assisted Living
The usual age for assisted living eligibility is 65. Some communities may admit younger individuals, considering their health requirements. The primary requirement for assisted senior living is the need for assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating, to a reasonable extent while still being independently functional.
Health Assessments and Documentation
Seniors seeking Assisted Living require health checkups to determine the level of care they require. These assessments include checks on their existing health conditions, medication needs, and cognition levels. The objective is to construct a care plan that guarantees the client receives the right care and support.
Personalization of Care Plans
Every resident in an assisted living facility receives a tailored care plan that details the services they are expected to require. This care plan is prepared according to the resident’s individual needs, preferences, and lifestyle. It undergoes regular revisions to record changes in the resident’s health or care needs.
Legal and Financial Considerations
Families must be prepared to submit certain medical and financial documents prior to admitting a loved one into an assisted living facility. Government funding programs like Medicaid may also require financial verification to determine eligibility.
How Much Does Assisted Living Cost?
The cost of assisted living facilities varies greatly by location, state, and the amount of care needed. Geographic location also affects the price.
For example, Seattle and Washington, D.C., have higher median monthly prices, at $6,750 and $6,000, respectively. Other cities like Miami ($3,500), St. Louis ($3,750), and Charleston, South Carolina ($3,600), have more affordable facilities.
Insurance Coverage for Assisted Living
Long-Term Care Insurance
Most health insurance plans do not cover assisted living. However, long-term care insurance plans tend to offer coverage, given the terms of your policy.
If you are a wartime veteran or married to one, you might be eligible for the benefits offered by the Veterans Administration’s Aid and Attendance program.
Medicare and Assisted Living
Medicare does not cover long-term stays at assisted living facilities. It does provide some coverage for short-term care after hospitalization. However, Medicare will not subsidize long-term living costs in an assisted living facility or a nursing home.
Medicaid and Assisted Living
Medicaid coverage for assisted living varies by state. The Medicaid program generally covers long-term care services such as personal care assistance, but room and board are not typically covered.
Eligibility for Medicaid is income-based, and you must meet state-specific income requirements to qualify.
Considerations for Affording Assisted Living
The price of assisted living is influenced by several elements. You need to consider
Factors Influencing Price: Region, services available, and level of care required.
Research Local Options: Understand what assisted living options are available in your area.
Explore Funding Programs: Look into programs that make assisted living more affordable.
Determine Insurance Coverage: Consider the lack of coverage by some insurers for Assisted Living.
What Are the Benefits of Assisted Living?
Comprehensive Care for Daily Activities
Assisted Living offers basic day-to-day self-care routines like bathing, dressing, grooming, and eating. The service is provided so that your loved one can exercise some level of independence. With this support, elderly people can effectively perform their hygiene and self-care routines.
Socialization and Community
One key benefit of assisted Living is the opportunity for socialization and community involvement. Most communities provide programmed events, clubs, and trips that keep older adults alert both mentally and physically. The community feeling within the place also helps combat loneliness and enhances belongingness, which is an important aspect of emotions.
Peace of Mind for Families
For family members, knowing that their loved ones are in a safe and secure environment brings peace of mind. Elderly assisted living facilities have open services around the clock (24/7), ensuring that the aged person is always attended to and protected from any form of hazard, especially in the middle of the night or during emergencies. This form of support helps family members know that the elderly people under their care are always professionally supported.
Health and Wellness Monitoring
Seniors in assisted Living are regularly monitored for their physical and mental health. These communities usually offer services like rehabilitation, medication supervision, and regular health checkups. These services provide prompt treatment effectively and seamlessly during their residency period.
Accessibility and Mobility Support
Assisted living facilities are designed to accommodate the mobility needs of elderly individuals. They often feature ramps, handrails, and wide hallways to ensure seniors can move around comfortably. Caregivers are available to assist residents who need help with walking or transferring from a bed to a wheelchair.
When Assisted Living Might Not Be Suitable
Assisted Living might not be suitable for your loved one in the following cases:
24/7 Medical Supervision. Assisted Living may not be suitable for patients needing constant medical care.
Serious Medical Conditions: Patients with critical medical conditions like advanced Alzheimer’s disease may need specialized care beyond what assisted living facilities offer.
Severe Disabilities: Patients with significant physical disabilities may require more comprehensive care than assisted living facilities provide.
Alternative Care Options: Skilled nursing facilities or hospice care may better meet these individuals’ medical and personal needs.
Conclusion
Comprehending what senior assisted living is and its advantages is important when making a decision to move your loved one. Although expenses and qualifications differ, families should consider the available assisted living options according to their needs and personal preferences.
They are sure to provide better, professional care than at-home assisted Living, where you have to manage everything on your own.
The Perfect Assisted Living Solution for Your Loved Ones
In New Orleans, St. Francis Villa provides seniors with a warm, caring, and protective environment. We invite families to visit to learn about the tailored care options they can choose from.
If you’re considering assisted living for a loved one, schedule a tour at St. Francis Villa today to discover how we can provide exceptional care for your family. Our compassionate team is here to answer any questions and guide you through the process.
