How do you decide which assisted living facility suits you or your loved one? There are many options, and each will likely come with different price tags. But comparing costs can help determine what living expenses you can afford, which can ultimately help you pick the suitable senior care facility. The fact that this type of care is typically lifelong means that you must be careful about choosing the ideal assisted living community. The main goal is to end up with one that provides the needs your loved one requires without spending so much that you go broke in a short time. Remember, you will need to keep them getting the proper care for years. The assisted living community you pick should be affordable so that you can rest easy, knowing that you have provided the best you can for your loved one for the rest of their life.
To help you make the right decision, here is a breakdown of a cost comparison between home care and the cost of assisted living in Tampa, FL, which provides services such as professional memory care.
What to Know About the Cost of Assisted Living and Memory Care Services
When you first see the prices of moving into an assisted care facility, you could experience sticker shock. The expense of living at home is sometimes equivalent to assisted living, even though it may appear to be the more expensive alternative.
The goal of an assisted living facility is to help seniors maintain active, happy lifestyles by offering medical and living assistance and a social atmosphere with organized activities, physical wellness programs, and other convenient support services.
Ask About Included Services in Assisted Living Facilities
Although included facilities and services might differ from assisted living community to assisted care facility, the items mentioned above are often provided at most communities as part of the monthly charge.
Ask which services and facilities are included in the price and which are extra when selecting an assisted living facility. Three meals a day, for instance, could be included, but extras like hair appointments might not.
Home Care Cost Factors
You may have already hired outside care if you or a loved one is going through health issues that make it more difficult for you to live alone.
For instance, you might want assistance showering or getting dressed in the morning. You might require assistance with household chores or transportation to appointments and social gatherings. It’s acceptable if you cannot supply such items on your own. The cost of in-home care services varies based on the type of support you want and how frequently you require it.
Consider Using Insurance to Pay for the Service
Many consumers are unsure if the costs of assisted living are covered by their insurance. According to your insurance, for instance, if you have long-term care insurance, it can pay all or part of your fees for assisted living. Additionally, if rehab or home health services are required in assisted living, specific insurance plans can pay for them.
A financial aid program for veterans may be available. Unfortunately, assisted living is not covered by Medicare. Many people make private payments for assisted living. If you have concerns regarding assisted living coverage, it’s a good idea to speak with your insurance company.
