Planning Ahead: A Consumer's Guide to Assisted Living Facilities

Paying For Assisted Living       

Costs for assisted living residences vary greatly, and depend on the size of rooms, amenities, services provided, and location.  Calculating the approximate cost is important as well as understanding what happens if private, personal funds are depleted.  While Medicare does not cover assisted living, certain health care services may be available under specific, limited circumstances.  Supplemental Security Income may cover some costs and residences may participate in grant programs, the Medicaid program or offer internal assistance programs. The residence’s management should be able to answer your questions concerning available assistance programs.

In addition, several private health and long term care insurance policies include assisted living/residential care coverage.  However, the majority of assisted living costs are paid through personal finances of residents and/or their families.

Residences should willingly provide consumers with key information regarding base rates, specific fees for additional services, occupancy levels, staffing, and ownership. Obtaining this information is crucial in choosing the appropriate assisted living or residential care residence.