Senior Living Options Simplified

If your health or housing needs have changed, you may be considering moving to a senior residence. But how do you know which housing option is best? This is an easy guide to some of the common types of senior living options. Costs vary according to location, size of the apartment, whether it is private or shared and the level of care needed.

Independent living - An apartment building with studios and one and two-bedroom apartments. Some meals, weekly housekeeping and utilities usually are included in the rent. In addition, most independent living communities offer a full array of daily events and activities in and out of the building for no additional charge. Private-duty caregivers can be hired to come and go as needed. Monthly rental fees can range from $900-$5,000.

Assisted living - For those who need help with one or more daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, taking medication and walking. Some assisted living communities will help with incontinence. Activities, housekeeping and three meals a day are standard. Apartments include a private bathroom and a kitchenette area. Costs can range from $2,500-$5,000.

Continuum of Care Retirement Communities - Maintenance-free townhouses or condos for active seniors. As care needs increase, residents hire private-duty caregivers, and the campus usually provides assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. Sometimes an endowment fee is required upfront in addition to a monthly rental fee. Each property has a different refund policy. Monthly fees average around $2600 a month and to move into a community, individuals might also have to pay an entry fee ranging from $60,000 to $120,000 or more.

Memory Care - Those with memory impairment require special care. Dementia can cause someone to wander, so properties that provide this type of care are secure. Staff has been trained to deal specifically with the disease and involve residents in enjoyable daily activities. Costs can range from $4,000- $7,000 a month and generally include medication administration.

Nursing Home - For those with chronic and/or long term care illnesses and who require 24-hour skilled care. The state mandates the availability of regular medical supervision and rehabilitation therapy. Some short-term stays after a hospital discharge are covered under Medicare. Private-pay rate for this care is about $6,000 to $8,000 a month.

Who pays for this? - Most private pay assisted living and nursing homes are paid for with personal funds or long term care insurance. Medicare DOES NOT pay for long term care. In some cases, Medicaid will. However you have to qualify to receive the benefits. In order to do so, you usually have to deplete all your assets. Not all facilities will accept Medicaid as a form of payment so its important to know what you can afford before you start touring.

Lisa Sneddon is the Founder & President of http://www.SeniorLivingExperts.com , which offers free personalized help finding the best senior living and senior care options in Chicago and the Chicago suburbs. Our senior living advisers help relieve stress and save time by narrowing down your choices based on budget, location and care needs and then accompany your on tours as your advocate. Lisa also maintains a blog about elder care issues and senior housing http://www.SeniorLivingInfo.com

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