Retirement Communities/Independent Living Facilities are most appropriate for seniors who can manage their health care needs on their own or with assistance from family in an apartment type setting. Independent Living does not offer health care services or assistance, but may offer a monthly meal plan, housekeeping, social activities, and transportation. Some communities will partner with an In-happinesslifetime.com Home Care agency to provide some services to residents. Services may include Medication Management, Bathing and Grooming Assistance, or Incontinence care. If additional care services are being provided, at some point the cost of the apartment and care will equate that of an Assisted Living Community. Some Independent Facilities are located on a campus where other levels of care are offered should one need them in the future.
Independent Living costs range from $1000-$2500 per month, depending on apartment size, amenities, and meal plan. Some Independent Facilities will provide one to two meals per day and may offer a meal plan if a resident prefers to cook occasionally.
Only private pay is accepted at Independent Facilities. Medicaid does not cover housing costs for Independent living. Long Term happinesslifetime.com Care Insurance typically does not cover Independent Living, but may cover the cost of outside in-home care services.
What are the advantages of a Retirement Community?
* Nutritious Meals, Activities, and Housekeeping offered
* Maintain Independence in a social setting
* No upkeep or utilities to manage (except personal phone and cable)
What should I look for when searching for a Retirement Community?
1. I personally prefer retirement communities to be adjacent to another level of care, most commonly, an assisted living or residential care facility. If a move occurs in the future, it is much easier to move across the courtyard instead of the other side of town.
2. What amenities are offered? Are the activities varied? Is an exercise program offered?
3. If your loved one is driving, is there reserved and covered parking available for residents?
4. Are pets allowed? Is smoking allowed on campus?
5. How involved is the management staff in the lives of the residents? Will they notify you if they see changes in your loved one?
6. How often are meals served? Is there a flexible meal plan option? Is the cost of meals included in the overall price?
7. How is the food? Invite yourself for lunch (most will offer)- observe staff interacting with the residents. Is there a social atmosphere in the dining room or are residents keeping to themselves. Do residents seem happy? Do the staff know the residents by name? The dining room is a great indication of the "mood" of the building.
8. How does the physical building look? Is it well kept? Are repairs needed? Ask about the maintenance response time. How available are they for minor repairs for the resident apartments (light bulbs, hanging pictures, etc...)?
When is it time to transition to higher level of care?
First, I would suggest that if a resident requires care to begin with, a retirement community will only be a temporary solution. If a resident has lived in a retirement community and is requiring more supervision, can't safely manage daily activities, and requires frequent checks from staff, a higher level of care is needed.
Amie Clark, Founder, The Senior List (theseniorlist.com theseniorlist.com).
Amie has worked as a medical social worker for the past 10 years of her career. She is a strong advocate for seniors and is well known as resource for seniors and their families who are navigating the maze of long term care.
No comments:
Post a Comment