What’s Included in the Cost of Senior Living
While most seniors and their families focus on the cost of senior living, what matters most is the value: just what are you getting? Turns out, quite a lot, from important services, amenities and experiences to intangible delights that can make this the absolute best time of your life. Here’s a closer look.
The cost of senior living: start with the basics
As you are considering your options, be sure to ask each senior living community what is included in their basic monthly fee: rent, utilities, cable, meals, life-enrichment activities and housekeeping. Group transportation services are also usually part of the package, as are amenities such as a library, fitness center, game rooms, arts and crafts studios, and other areas both indoors and outdoors for gathering with friends and family.
Also usually included:
- Personal care. In many communities, assistance with activities of daily living (such as bathing, dressing, grooming and medication management) may be covered by the cost of senior living. This could include a personalized care plan for each resident that is reviewed on a regular basis. In addition, it’s important to remember the priceless value of continuous monitoring of each resident’s health and wellbeing.
- Dynamic wellness programs. Healthy aging is what life in a senior living community is all about. Senior-friendly exercise equipment, group classes, walking groups, nutritional counseling and more—the emphasis is on helping you maintain your independence for as long as possible. Plus, you have the extra advantage of sharing the experience with others who are on the same path. You’ll inspire each other!
- 24-hour assistance. All day and all night, regardless of the weather, weekends and holidays. A very important benefit that is included in the cost of senior living is the reassurance that someone is on hand 24/7 to offer assistance if needed. Not only does that allow the resident to enjoy a stronger sense of safety and security, but it also offers families reassurance as well.
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- Opportunities for socializing. Isolation is proven to be harmful to an older adult’s mental and physical health. That’s taken care of in a senior living community. Classes, parties, hobbies, clubs, discussions, happy hours, outings, volunteering, holiday celebrations and so much more—all included and all available just steps away. No need to drive in bad weather or after dark. Just check your activities calendar and open your door: you’re almost there!
- Scheduled transportation. Instead of having to maintain a car, pay for gas, drive in traffic or even worry about how you will get to a physician’s appointment, as a resident of senior living, you have the benefit of scheduled transportation at no extra charge.
- Possible additional costs. Each community varies, so it’s a good idea to check up front about possible additional costs. For example, special outings, beauty/barber shop fees, pet deposits, and so on.
Now consider what staying at home could cost you
Bills, bills, bills. Maintenance of a home can start to feel like there’s a hole in your pocket and the money just keeps falling out. Appliance repairs. Yard maintenance. Plumbing issues. Heating and air conditioning upkeep. Painting that’s peeling. It can feel like it never ends— because it doesn’t!
Plus, there’s the “costs” that come with having to take care of all this yourself. Not only in terms of dollars, but in the hassle and stress of overseeing maintenance. Add the inherent dangers of you or another older adult attempting to go up ladders or crawl through attics to take care of issues. And this doesn’t even begin to cover the other expenses of everyday life: groceries, gas, fitness memberships, taxes, utilities, security and more.
What else is included in the cost of senior living? Precious peace of mind
You’ve chosen a lifestyle filled with companionship, stimulation and wellness. You’ll be surrounded by interesting people eager to share experiences. A cheerful and experienced staff will be on hand to assist when needed, 24 hours a day. You have a sound plan in place, offering both you and your family peace of mind both now and in the future. Priceless!
Senior living, the LSS Senior Living way
At LSS Senior Living, our goal is to offer seniors quality care and comfort in a friendly and warm environment that feels like home. We offer a continuum of services to lend a helping hand when you need them. Find out more about our communities:
Speak to an advisor today. We’re here to help. We’re here to help. We’re here to help. Learn more about planning to fund senior living – download our free “Financial Planning for Retirement Living” guide.
