Senior Care First
Senior Care First
When beginning the search for a senior living community for your loved one, it's important to have a clear understanding of the costs involved. The overall price of senior living can vary depending on the community or home, location, and the current care level, however, there are a few key factors to consider when planning for these expenses.
To simplify, here are the main components to keep in mind when exploring pricing for assisted living:
The base rate refers to the fundamental cost of living in a senior community. This includes the room, utilities, maintenance, meals, and access to community activities. Essentially, it covers the basics of what you would expect from the community, such as housing, food, and social engagement.
“ It's essential to understand what is included in the base rate and what will incur additional charges, as well as when to expect an increase based on a change in the care needs.
Personal care needs encompass the daily assistance your loved one may require, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility assistance. These services are often priced separately and based on the amount of time a caregiver spends with each resident. Each community sets its own pricing for these services, so it's essential to understand what is included in the base rate and what will incur additional charges, as well as when to expect an increase based on a change in the care needs. Some communities may have an 'all inclusive' rate, meaning that the care fees are included in that monthly rate. There may be an additional or higher cost for dementia care due to the specifics of the extra supervision and support required as well as the addition of specially trained staff.
Some individuals require medication management, especially if they are on multiple medications (e.g., 4+ medications) or need specialized care such as insulin injections or glucose monitoring. If your loved one requires medication management, this can be an additional cost that varies depending on the complexity of the medications, number of doses, etc.
Each community or home may have an Entrance Fee also called a Community or Admission Fee. This fee is a one-time fee charged either before admission or at the time of admission. It is a partially refundable fee within the first 90 days.
It is usual for Senior Living communities or homes to increase rates annually for cost of living increases. You should ask what the average increase has been over the past 3 years to help with budgeting. It is better to learn this before entering into any financial agreement.
“ We have advisors who are well-versed in the pricing and nuances of local senior communities and can help families navigate the complexities of cost and care.
It's important to feel empowered and informed when choosing a senior living community. In addition to the key components above, will the choice provide the lifestyle and support that will improve the quality of life for that senior?
One of the most beneficial aspects of Senior Care First's platform is that it connects families with local Senior Care Advisors like us. We have advisors who are well-versed in the pricing and nuances of local senior communities and can help families navigate the complexities of cost and care. This personalized service not only saves time but can provide a much more tailored experience, ensuring that families find the best possible match for their loved one's needs and budget at no additional charge, the referral fees are built into the structure and do not change or alter pricing.
Certified Placement Specialist
American Senior Home Finders
Donna Rybacki is the Founder of American Senior Home Finders with over 20 years of experience helping families navigate senior care options. As a Certified Senior Advisor® and Senior Placement Specialist with RCFE Administrator Certification, she specializes in connecting seniors and their loved ones with ideal living solutions tailored to their unique needs and budgets.