The growing trend of assisted living is giving seniors a future where they can age with dignity and independence while receiving the help they need to continue living on their own terms. Find out more about assisted living for seniors.
Assisted living is a concept in the healthcare industry that has grown rapidly in recent years. Assisted living is a wonderful option for seniors who are in need of extra care, but don’t require the 24-hour supervision that comes with a nursing home. This senior living option allows seniors to live in assisted living community-like settings and receive support with basic tasks they otherwise couldn’t manage on their own.
Assisted Living Costs
Assisted living costs can vary depending on your location, the community you’re considering, and the level of care you need. However, there are general costs and expenses associated with assisted living that are useable as guidelines when planning for life in a senior living community.
Assisted living costs include:
- Basic services, such as housekeeping, meals, transportation, and laundry services
- Meal plans that offer three meals per day plus snacks (a la carte options may be available)
- A variety of activities, such as exercise classes, arts and crafts projects, or outings into town
Is AL Covered by Medicare?
Medicare’s coverage of assisted living services is limited. Assisted living is typically not covered by Medicare because it is considered long-term care, which Medicare does not cover. However, some Medicaid programs do cover certain types of assisted living facilities under their rules.
Who Should Live In Assisted Living?
Assisted living facilities are designed to provide the highest level of care possible while giving residents the freedom and independence they need to live their lives.
Assisted living facilities have a number of resident types, including:
- Seniors who no longer can live alone, but do not need the 24/7 care provided by nursing homes
- Frail seniors who need help with daily tasks, like showering and dressing
- Seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia who need around-the-clock care, but don’t require constant supervision
What Does Assisted Living Offer Seniors?
Senior living facilities are a great way for seniors to stay in their own homes, but get help with daily tasks. Assisted living facilities provide a wide range of services and amenities that allow residents to enjoy their independence while receiving assistance when they need it most. These services include:
- Medical care coordination
- Transportation arrangements
- Shopping assistance
- Meal preparation services
- Housekeeping services
Depending on how much help you need, senior living can work out of your home or in an apartment-style setting.
The Benefits
Assisted living facilities offer a variety of services that can help seniors enjoy their golden years in comfort and safety. Here are some of the benefits:
- Personalized care – Assisted living facilities offer personalized care by trained caregivers who know how to handle any situation that comes up.
- Security and peace of mind – Assisted living communities to provide 24-hour security and emergency response systems in case something goes wrong at night or during the day when family members aren’t around.
- Activities Programs: Activities programs are available in many assisted living communities today and include everything from arts & crafts classes to walking groups. These programs allow seniors to socialize with others while enjoying themselves at the same time.
- Respite Care: Respite care allows family members some much-needed time off by providing temporary care, so they can take vacations or run errands without worrying about their parents’ safety or welfare.
Bottom-line
The goal of assisted living is to help residents maintain their independence and experience the highest level of health, safety, and comfort. This care is a wonderful option for those needing a little extra help in their daily routine.
