SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
SENIOR CARE
SPONSORED CONTENT
SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS
With the future of Social Security in question , more and more financial planners are encouraging consumers to save for their retirement . But does that plan also include monies for your long-term care ?
Every older adult is different , so the senior housing choice that ’ s right for one may not be suitable for another . Fortunately there is a broad array of housing options available . The key to making the best choice is to match your housing needs with your lifestyle , health , and financial situation .
STAYING AT HOME has the advantage of keeping you in a familiar place where you know your neighbors and the community . There is a wide range of home care services that can help you maintain your independence in your own home . Non-medical home care services include light housekeeping , bathing and companion services . Rates for these services generally run between $ 20 and $ 30 per hour .
Staying at home may be a good option if :
• You are still able to take care of yourself , or have a close network of nearby family , friends , and neighbors to help .
• Your home can be modified to reflect your changing needs .
• Your physical and medical needs do not require a high level of care .
INDEPENDENT LIVING is any housing arrangement designed exclusively for seniors and includes retirement communities , retirement homes , senior housing , and senior apartments . Senior housing communities provide meals , housekeeping , laundry , activities and sometimes transportation services . Their rates run between $ 1,500 and $ 2,800 per month depending upon the type of community , location and amenities you select .
You may want to consider independent living if :
• You ’ d like to get rid of the burdens of home ownership .
• You like the idea of socializing with peers and having activity options nearby .
• You are still able to care for yourself , and do not need assistance from others .
PERSONAL CARE is a housing option for those who need help with some of the activities of daily living , or help with medications . Most facilities have a group dining area and common areas for social and recreational activities . Personal Care communities provide assistance 24 hours a day with all activities of daily living including meals , activities , housekeeping , medication administration , laundry and sometimes transportation . The average rate is $ 2,500 – $ 5,500 per month . Costs vary according to the level of daily help you require , the amenities offered and the community ’ s location .
A Personal Care community may be a good choice if :
• You can benefit from supervision and assistance with your daily personal care needs .
• You need medication administration or oversight for medical conditions .
• You enjoy daily socialization , activities and programs .
NURSING HOME CARE is the highest level of medical care for older adults outside of a hospital . Nursing Homes provide nursing care , rehabilitation and physician services 24 hours a day . While they provide assistance with activities of daily living , they also provide a high level of medical care . A licensed physician supervises each resident ’ s care , and a nurse or other medical professional is almost always on the premises . The monthly cost for long-term skilled nursing care runs from $ 8,500 - $ 11,000 per month . A Nursing Home may be a good choice if :
• Both your medical and personal care needs have become too great to handle at home or in another facility . This may be due to a recent hospitalization or a chronic illness that has gradually been worsening .
• You need a higher level of care or rehabilitation services after a hospitalization .
When deciding on the senior housing plan that ’ s right for you , it ’ s important to select the type of long-term care that best suits your medical and financial needs both today and in the future .
For more information on how to plan for your future long-term care and the senior housing options available in the Pittsburgh area , contact Juniper Village at Forest Hills at 412.244.9901 .
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