Three Tips for Cutting the Cost of an Assisted Living Facility
When it comes to a person’s aging parents, it is important to know that one day they may need assisted living. And even if you are planning to take care of your parents, unexpected situations occur many times when you may need assisted living support for them. So, it is important that you start planning now.
One thing you should do is to search online. You can search for assisted living senior, assisted living senior care, assisted living units, assisted living support, or just assisted living. From there, you will then get a full array of choices. There will be more information to see how assisted living works, and you can find trustworthy organizations that can lead you in the right direction for your loved ones. You can check the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and more to find out which assisted living senior companies are safe and have high standards.
With 10,000 Baby Boomers retiring each day in 2014, more and more children are having to decide how they’re going to take care of their aging parents. Children who live nearby and those who have the time do so typically choose to take care of their parents themselves. What if you’re not one of those people, though?
Choosing to find your parents a great senior citizen housing option can be the best way to go. That said, according to SeniorHomes.com, the cost for assisted living facilities is higher than ever before. The average facility now charges $3,550 per month. How can you possibly afford the best assisted living facilities for your parents when they’re charging so much? Start by following these tips to lower rates.
How to Make Assisted Living Facilities More Affordable
- Choose the Right Senior Housing Options
The first step to saving money on your parents’ housing is knowing what they actually need. For example, if they just need a home that’s easy to take care of and one which will give them plenty of opportunities to socialize with their peers, go with a retirement community or an assisted living center. If they are in need of frequent medical attention, however, you need to look for a nursing home. There are huge differences in pricing between these different options. Consulting with your parents’ doctors before choosing a location can ensure you’re not spending money on an option your parents don’t actually need.
- Get Away from the City
As the online guide to senior living Paying for Senior Care details, not many Americans realize that they’ll pay premiums on assisted living facilities if they’re located in big cities. If you can, try finding reputable facilities in a nearby rural area. Sure, you’ll have to drive a bit farther when it comes time to move and when you want to visit your parents, but the monthly savings are more than worth this little bit of inconvenience.
- Start Investing in Long Term Care Insurance Now
Did you know that your parents can get long term care insurance that will help cover the costs of assisted living facilities? As the Assisted Living Federation of America points out, this type of insurance won’t be available to those who are planning to move into a facility soon, so you’ll need to plan ahead at least a couple years. If you can do so, you’ll be able to pick just about any facility you want, without having to worry too much about the cost.
What are some of the things you did to help get the cost of your parents’ senior housing under control? Share your advice with us in the comment section below. More on this.
