What Is Assisted Living?
July 29, 2023 / Assisted Living
If you or your loved ones are beginning to age and are considering the next steps when it comes to your living situation and long-term care options, assisted living is likely on your radar. One of the most independent options for seniors looking to live in a safe and social community as they age, assisted living has many benefits for individuals who are still independent but may be looking for a place to live a more active, social life. Senior Care AZ, an Arizona senior placement agency, is breaking down assisted living: the types of facilities, the benefits, and if assisted living might be the right next step for you.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living communities are living spaces and communities for older adults who are looking to remain independent in a home-like setting but may be looking for minimal, non-medical assistance with the activities of daily living, like eating, bathing, dressing, or going to the restroom. Assisted living communities are generally split up into private, apartment-like facilities with common areas. Facilities may have dining and activity rooms, movie rooms, libraries, walking trails, or pools. Many assisted living facilities offer daily meals, social activities, and occasional outings, and some communities on the more luxurious end may contain spas, bars, and frequent outings to surrounding areas.
Types of Assisted Living Facilities
Assisted living communities vary in size and structure, with some having as few as 25 residents and some larger facilities containing upwards of 120 residents. Assisted living communities may be referred to as adult care facilities or residential facilities, but many communities are trying to steer away from the word facilities and instead use the option to refer to them as communities to inspire a more home-like feel and environment.
Benefits of Assisted Living
Assisted living allows an aging senior to continue to live independently, even if they are dealing with certain health conditions, mild memory loss issues, or mobility issues. Aging seniors can also benefit from not having to worry about home maintenance and repairs and not having to deal with transportation and everyday grocery shopping. The benefits can also be great for emotional and social wellbeing: As individuals age, engaging with their community and having social activities is excellent for cognitive health. Seniors can often end up isolated if they live in their home alone, but in an assisted living community, they have ample opportunities to engage with the other residents and participate in activities and outings.
What Services Do Assisted Living Communities Provide?
Assisted living communities generally provide similar offerings for residents, including private living quarters, home maintenance, emergency medical alert systems, daily meals, laundry and housekeeping, transportation, activities, outings, and classes. Classes may include fitness classes, art classes, technology classes, and classes on aging and home safety. Activities and outings may include educational, cultural, or religious events or services, trips to plays, concerts, guest speakers, or other opportunities for residents to engage and socialize. These services are generally included in the monthly rent that a resident pays to cover the costs of their private, apartment style living. If needed, residents can usually pay for additional assistance, such as help with the activities of daily life, on-site healthcare or pharmacy access, and beauty shop or barber services in some facilities.
Assisted Living Requirements
Applicants for assisted living generally must be living independently, have some mobility, and not require ongoing medical attention. They generally do not need medical care or round the clock supervision from staff.
How Much Does Assisted Living Cost?
Wondering how much does assisted living cost? The average cost of assisted living varies from facility to facility, and it varies greatly based on the state in which you live. In Arizona, the average monthly cost for an assisted living facility is $4,000 per resident.
Does Insurance Cover Assisted Living?
In general, private health insurance will not cover the cost of assisted living. However, many plans are different, so it is worth speaking to your insurance company to discuss the options they may offer.
Does Medicare Cover Assisted Living?
Medicare will not cover the costs of room and board or the costs of assistance with ADLs in an assisted living facility, but may pay for medical services rendered by the facility.
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living?
Does Medicaid pay for assisted living? Medicaid provides health coverage to more than 80 million Americans, including eligible low-income adults, people with disabilities, and elderly adults. It is administered by each state, so the coverage depends on your state of residence, among other factors. Many state Medicaid plans will cover the costs of nursing services and personal care assistance; however, states are not legally allowed to use Medicaid assistance to cover room and board.
Is Assisted Living Right for Your Loved One?
If your loved one is unable to continue living independently or may soon be uncomfortable living independently and wants a safe, secure environment where they can continue to be social, active, and mostly independent, assisted living is a great option to consider.
How to Choose the Best Assisted Living Facility
Choosing the best assisted living for your loved one can be hard, but it is an important decision. Beginning by checking licenses, the location and size of the facility, their offerings, and the certification of the staff is a great first step. Touring the community with your loved one and seeing how comfortable they feel in the environment is also important. If you have questions or concerns about choosing the best assisted living community, the Senior Care team can provide guidance and knowledge on facilities in the Arizona area, as well as what to look for when choosing your long-term care facility.
FAQs About Assisted Living
What Is the Difference Between Assisted Living and Memory Care?
Assisted living is a long-term care option designed for independent seniors, and memory care is a long-term care option designed specifically for individuals with dementia or other forms of memory impairment. Some assisted living communities and nursing homes may have wings dedicated to memory care.
What Is the Best Age for Assisted Living?
There is no “right” age to consider moving into assisted living. According to statistics, more than half of assisted living residents are between the ages of 65 and 85, but seniors generally enter the facility anywhere between the ages of 65 and 85.
How Long Do Most People Live In Assisted Living?
Many individuals will live in an assisted living facility for the rest of their lives, while others will live there for a few years before transitioning to a facility with more care options, such as a nursing home or memory care facility.