If you are determining where you will live during your senior years, there are several factors you must consider and others you will want to consider. Key factors are your medical, physical, and mobility needs. As health problems increase and mobility decreases, many aging adults elect to move into senior living communities or assisted living options. These settings afford fewer responsibilities, easily accessible assistance from trained professionals, and peace of mind.
Most seniors will also want to consider factors connected to their emotional comfort and personality fit. You may have family whom you want to remain near. You may enjoy living in a close-knit community, where you can connect with peers and enjoy life. You may want a personal residence, where you can retreat. You may have a pet whom you want to keep in your care. These are all factors that may not be necessities but could certainly add to your quality of life and sense of well-being.
When considering your senior living and assisted living options, look for places that meet your needs and that offer at least some of the qualities you would like to have. Most modern options do have private residences, public spaces, planned activities, chances to interact with peers, and some are even pet friendly. Once you have identified the places that fit your interests, your next concern may be costs.
Of course, it does little good to find the right residential option if the costs far exceed your budget. So, you may be considering costs from the outset, and then looking at exact pricing once you have narrowed down your options. Many senior living and assisted living communities do offer various options that can match different budgets. You may also be surprised to learn how affordable this setting can be when you consider that the costs include most or all your typical living expenses.
It is likely that most seniors carry a number of bills and debts. These can include a mortgage or rent, utilities, health insurance, medical costs, groceries/food, and transportation. For those that have a home, the responsibilities of upkeep and unexpected expenses like home repairs can be not only costly, but stressful as well. In a senior living community, your assisted living costs may be lower or at least easier to manage, because all your costs will be rolled into one bill.
Typical assisted living costs cover your residence, utilities, bus transportation, and meals. The residential amenities like planned activities and the use of public spaces are also included. Many communities offer the option of having a roommate to reduce costs. Some amenities, such as housekeeping services, are optional to also help match various budgets. Some of your costs may even be covered by insurance.
Before making a decision about where to spend your golden years, be sure to do the research on your options and assisted living costs. You may be surprised to learn you have many more options within your budget than you previously thought. Having these options can allow you to choose what fits your needs and interests, so that you can enjoy a high quality of life.