Planning ahead for senior care is a topic many of us don’t want to think about. Moving from a home filled with memories into a senior living community can be very emotional. However, the majority of people will have to make a decision about additional care and support at some point in their lives. It is crucial to start your planning now to avoid unnecessary stress down the road.
Creating a checklist of current costs versus the cost of living in an assisted or supportive living community is a good place to start.
Monthly fees:
First, calculate your current mortgage, home-owners insurance, and house utilities like electric, gas, water, sewer, garbage, phone, cable, and internet. How much are you spending each month on these various items? As you begin to do research at different assisted or supportive living communities, ask about what costs are part of the monthly rent, and what might be a separate charge. Is there a security deposit? Are utilities included or extra? At Evergreen communities, housekeeping and maintenance are all included. These are chores and potential expenses you will no longer have to worry about.
Groceries:
Take a look at your weekly grocery bills. You can eliminate most of these costs when moving into an assisted or supportive living community. They all provide three meals per day, and many times, snacks and all food items are included with your monthly rent.
You will also want to ask what toiletry items are included in your monthly rent and what you as a resident will be responsible for purchasing and supplying. Some communities may not include things like toilet paper or soap.
Transportation:
How do you plan to get around? Instead of paying for car insurance or a monthly car loan payment, you can utilize free transportation offered at many senior living communities. Always be sure to ask if there are additional fees for transportation. If you can afford to keep your car, most assisted living communities allow you to come and go as you choose.
Financial Assistance:
If your budget is tight and you’re struggling to determine how you will pay for assisted living, there IS help out there. Veterans and spouses of veterans may qualify for monthly benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. If you’re planning ahead, there is also the option of purchasing a long-term care insurance policy that will cover your stay for a set number of years. Supportive living communities accept Medicaid and base your rent on
For more information on services, financial assistance or our communities across Illinois, visit our website and contact the location nearest you.
