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Transitioning to Senior Living: A Guide for Families
July 10, 2024
Comparing Costs: Senior Living vs. Living at Home
It is important for seniors and their families to consider all costs associated with moving to senior living and aging in place by remaining to live at home.
Monthly Fees in Senior Living
Senior living communities typically charge a monthly fee that includes a variety of services and amenities often overlooked when calculating the costs of maintaining a home. The most common considerations include:
- Utilities: Electricity, water, heating, and cooling are usually included.
- Maintenance: Lawn care, home repairs, and maintenance are covered.
- Meals: Many communities offer daily meals, which can save on grocery bills.
- Housekeeping: Regular cleaning services are often part of the package.
- Transportation: Scheduled transportation for shopping, appointments, and social outings.
- Healthcare: On-site healthcare services and emergency response systems.
- Security: 24-hour security and monitoring.
Costs of Living at Home
When living at home, several costs can add up, many of which might be overlooked:
Mortgage or Rent: Monthly payments for the home or apartment.- Home Insurance: This is an annual or semi-annual payment to insure your property and the contents within it against loss or damage.
- Utilities: Separate bills for electricity, water, heating, cooling, and internet.
- Property Taxes: Annual or bi-annual property tax payments.
- Home Maintenance and Repairs: Regular upkeep, including lawn care, plumbing, roofing, and general maintenance.
- Groceries and Meals: Costs of food and the time required for meal preparation.
- Transportation: Costs for owning and maintaining a vehicle or using public transportation.
- Home Health Aides: If needed, hiring aides for assistance with daily activities.
Benefits of Senior Living
Beyond the financial aspects, senior living communities offer numerous benefits that enhance the quality of life for residents.
Socialization
- Community Engagement: Opportunities to participate in group activities, events, and social gatherings.
- Friendship: Building relationships with peers can combat loneliness and isolation.
- Scheduled Activities: Regularly scheduled games, classes, and entertainment foster an active lifestyle.
On-Site Healthcare and Home Care
- Medical Services: Access to on-site healthcare professionals and emergency response teams.
- Personal Care: Assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
- Health Monitoring: Regular health checks and access to specialized care as needed.
Community and Support
- Belonging: Being part of a larger community offers a sense of belonging and security.
- Peace of Mind: Families can rest assured knowing their loved one is in a safe, supportive environment.
- Continuum of Care: Many senior living communities offer various levels of care, from independent living to assisted living and memory care, ensuring that residents' needs are met as they change over time.
Making the Decision Between Senior Living and Aging in Place
When deciding between staying at home and moving to senior living, consider both the tangible and intangible benefits. Senior living communities provide a comprehensive package that can often simplify life, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. The social, healthcare, and community advantages, combined with the convenience of included services, make senior living a valuable option for many families. Genworth provides a good calculator that will give you an idea of what care cost in your city https://www.genworth.com/aging-and-you/finances/cost-of-care/cost-of-care-trends-and-insights
By carefully evaluating all aspects and comparing the true costs, families can make informed decisions that best suit their loved ones' needs and preferences, ensuring a smooth and supportive transition to a new chapter of life.
Partners We Support
Supporting the Senior Living Industry
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