When it comes to senior living options, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Adults today are increasingly seeking flexibility and variety in their retirement years, and one option gaining popularity is short-term senior living. The decision to explore a short-term stay at a senior living community can be a transformative experience, offering a unique window into a world of possibilities. Whether you’re seeking respite care, a taste of retirement community living, or simply a change of scenery, short-term stays provide an enriching opportunity.
Let’s explore the concept of short-term senior living, its benefits and why it might be the perfect choice for active adults looking to embrace adventure and flexibility in their retirement years.
Statement of Fairness: Considering senior living options for yourself or a loved one? We’re here to help at every step. And even though we specialize in Independent and Assisted Living communities, our goal is for YOU to find your best path to gracious retirement living, and part of how we achieve that is by providing reliable information on all types of senior living, not just the ones we offer. When our offerings serve as useful illustrations to a specific topic, you can find that information in the attached sidebar.
What is short-term senior living?
Short-term senior living, also known as respite care or a trial stay, offers adults the opportunity to experience the perks of senior living communities without the long-term commitment. It’s a flexible option that can range from a few weeks to several months, allowing seniors to explore new communities, make new friends and enjoy the amenities and services offered by senior living communities. It’s like taking a “test drive” of retirement living without fully relinquishing the comforts of home.
Short-term senior living is also an excellent option for various situations, including post-hospitalization recovery and caregiver respite. If family members are on vacation and regular supports at home aren’t possible, or if your home is being renovated and you don’t want to stay in a hotel, a short-term stay offers a solution.
You will stay in a private furnished apartment and have access to all the amenities and services the community offers. Short-term stays offer a range of services tailored to the individual’s needs, promoting independence and providing a safe environment for adults to thrive.
What are the benefits of short-term senior living?
The freedom to explore. One of the greatest perks of short-term senior living is the freedom it offers. You’re not locked into a long-term contract or commitment, which means you have the flexibility to explore different communities, locations, care levels and lifestyles. It’s an excellent way to try out different options and see what suits you best without feeling like you’re making a permanent decision.
Peace of mind for loved ones. Short-term senior living can also provide peace of mind to your loved ones. If your family is concerned about your well-being or need a break from caregiving responsibilities, a short-term stay in a senior living community can be a win-win solution. They’ll know that you’re in a safe and supportive environment, while you get the chance to relax and recharge.
Customized care. Many communities that offer short-term senior living also offer personalized care plans, which means you can receive the level of assistance you need, whether it’s minimal help with daily tasks or more comprehensive care. This will depend on the level of care offered at a community, whether it be independent living or assisted living or both.
How much does a short-term stay cost?
Every senior living community is different when it comes to rates, but expect to pay between $99 to $250 or more daily. In addition, ask for a copy of the community’s financial policies to see what is included in the rate versus additional fees. You may have price options based on meal plans, the amount of assistance needed and activities. Note that Medicare and Medicaid only cover specific types of short terms stays and it’s important to check with your program specifics.
Is short-term senior living right for you?
Short-term senior living isn’t just for respite care; it’s a chance to enrich your retirement experience and explore new possibilities. Here are some factors to consider when deciding if it’s the right fit for you:
Flexibility. Are you looking for a flexible living arrangement that doesn’t tie you down to a long-term commitment? Short-term stays allow you to come and go as you please.
Social interaction. If you’re seeking a more social and engaging retirement lifestyle, short-term stays offer abundant opportunities to connect with others.
Support needs. Depending on your health and support requirements, short-term senior living can be a suitable choice. Many facilities provide varying levels of care to accommodate individual needs.
Temporary respite. If you’re a caregiver in need of temporary respite or if you’d like your loved one to experience the benefits of senior living while you take a break, short-term stays can be an excellent solution.
Home. If just the sound of that word makes you feel all warm and cozy, you’re not alone.Three out of four adults aged 50 and older say they want to live in their own homes and in the same community as they grow older. The concept of “home” often holds a special place in our hearts. It is where cherished memories are created, where comfort and familiarity reside.
For many of us, the desire to age in place – to remain in our own home as we grow older – is a natural inclination. However, like any significant decision, there are both advantages and challenges to consider when opting for this path.
Right now, you may think that your current home is where your heart is. But before you make that decision, let’s consider what staying in your home would mean for you. In this article, we’ll explore the realities of aging in place, empowering you with insights to make an informed decision that resonates with your unique journey.
Statement of Fairness: Considering senior living options for yourself or a loved one? We’re here to help at every step. And even though we specialize in independent and assisted living communities, our goal is for YOU to find your best path to gracious retirement living, and part of how we achieve that is by providing reliable information on all types of senior living, not just the ones we offer. When our offerings serve as useful illustrations to a specific topic, you can find that information in the attached sidebar.
What does aging in place mean?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, aging in place is “the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.” Everyone wants to be in control of their own lives, and being able to make that decision for yourself gives you a sense of satisfaction and peace of mind.
The appeal of aging in place
Aging in place holds undeniable appeal, as it allows us to stay in a familiar environment where we have likely built cherished memories over the years. The appeal extends beyond physical spaces; it’s about preserving the emotional sanctuary that home represents. Aging in place empowers individuals to maintain their independence, crafting routines and rhythms that resonate with their unique lifestyles.
It fosters the continuation of community bonds, enabling the cultivation of enduring relationships with neighbors and friends. While most of us dream of living out our days in the homes we love, there are many factors that can make aging in place difficult, and choosing to do so comes with certain costs that many don’t consider. Staying at home requires thoughtful preparation to ensure a safe, comfortable and supportive environment that caters to your evolving needs.
What resources are available if i choose to remain at home?
The services you will require depend on your health and your family support system. Check your local Area Agency on Aging. They can help with assistance finding resources such as:
In-home health care agencies that offer medical services within a person’s residence, such as nurses, physical or occupational therapists or aides to assist with routine tasks
Senior centers that offer events, programs and adult day services
Health and wellness programs
Referrals to legal agencies, contractors and more
Is aging in place a good idea?
When it comes to aging in place, every situation is different. You love your home for so many reasons. You’re proud of it. Living in your own home makes you feel independent and in control. But no matter how comfortable your home is, aging in place has its own challenges. So, if you aren’t sure aging in place is ideal for you, what should you do?
Having an open and honest heart-to-heart conversation with your family can be incredibly beneficial. This kind of dialogue can shed light on your loved ones’ thoughts and perspectives, which you might not have been aware of previously.
Recognizing that their concerns stem from their love and care for you can make the discussion more comfortable and constructive. It’s essential to keep in mind that as your health needs evolve, exploring options like home health care services or long-term care becomes crucial to ensure you receive the necessary medical attention and support.
What are the disadvantages of living at home as an older adult?
Not all older adults encounter the same problems, but aging in place has disadvantages.
Home maintenance. Household chores become increasingly challenging as both you and your home age together. Finding reliable help for household chores can be a hit-or-miss experience, making it harder to ensure your living environment remains comfortable and safe.
Meals. Meal preparation becomes more complicated when cooking for just yourself or a small household. This often leads to skipping meals, resulting in inadequate nutrition and potential health issues.
Transportation. As we age, transportation becomes a growing concern. Finding rides to appointments and going out to purchase essentials can be a daunting task, limiting our ability to maintain an active and independent lifestyle.
Accessibility and safety. Getting older can cause our mobility and health needs to shift, making falls and accidents more prevalent. Aging in place may require you to implement safety measures to mitigate these risks. Modifying a home to accommodate these changes can be expensive and require extensive renovations, making it necessary to evaluate the feasibility of adapting the existing living space.
Limited access to care. While aging in place allows independence, it can become a challenge when access to necessary health care and caregiving services is limited. In case of emergencies or deteriorating health, being far from medical facilities can have severe consequences.
Loneliness. Seniors may find themselves dealing with reduced mobility, which can lead to social isolation. Being confined to the home can limit opportunities for social interactions, leading to loneliness and feelings of detachment from the outside world.
These stressors can have a significant impact not only on your physical and mental well-being but also on the well-being of your loved ones who deeply care about you.
How will my finances be impacted if I stay in my home?
Aging in place comes with costs. The things that are affordable now will only grow more expensive in five or 10 years. You’ll need to budget for the following major expenditures in addition to health care and other essentials.
More extensive remodeling can bring your bill up even further. While these changes make it easier for you to age in place, they may make your home harder to sell and affect its value.
How will my finances be impacted if I choose senior living?
That depends on your choice of retirement community. There are plenty of options to choose from, catering to almost every unique lifestyle and budget. To learn more choosing the right retirement community, read our blog.
For seniors seeking an active and independent lifestyle with the added benefits of community amenities and services, independent living communities stand out as an ideal choice. Typically, these communities operate on a simple monthly rent basis, encompassing all the additional perks without any hidden charges.
This transparent billing system provides a sense of reassurance, allowing you to embrace a worry-free experience. With a straightforward rental agreement, you have the freedom to relish the community’s offerings for both short- and long-term stays as part of your senior living journey.
Finding Your Perfect Balance
Ultimately, the choice between aging in place and alternative living arrangements is deeply personal and requires a holistic evaluation of the potential challenges and costs. It’s important to consider your physical health, support network, financial resources and personal preferences.
While aging in place can be a viable option, it’s crucial to approach it with realistic expectations. Balancing the desire for independence with the acknowledgment of potential obstacles is key to ensuring a fulfilling and secure future. Remember that you’re not alone in making this decision—reach out to loved ones, friends and professionals to help you navigate this journey.
By arming ourselves with knowledge, addressing challenges head-on and seeking appropriate support, we can pave the way for a rewarding future. As you contemplate this important decision, remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your journey is unique, and your choice should reflect your desires, needs and dreams.
Is it time to make the move to an assisted living community?
As adults get older, it’s important to acknowledge and address changing health care needs. Assisted living is a popular senior care option that strikes the perfect balance between independence and support. However, families often delay making a decision to move until a crisis occurs. As a result, people are forced to make decisions under pressure.
If you’ve witnessed yourself or a loved one face physical hurdles with day-to-day tasks, like cooking, cleaning, or even bathing, it might be time for a positive transformation. Start exploring residential assisted living, and you’ll discover that older adults in these residences can still enjoy an engaging, active lifestyle.
In this comprehensive blog, we will delve into the essence of assisted living, exploring the diverse range of services it offers and understanding the financial considerations involved. Armed with this knowledge, you can make a well-informed decision that ensures you or your loved one thrive in a nurturing and compassionate environment.
Statement of Fairness: Considering senior living options for yourself or a loved one? We’re here to help at every step. And even though we specialize in Independent and Assisted Living communities, our goal is for YOU to find your best path to gracious retirement living, and part of how we achieve that is by providing reliable information on all types of senior living, not just the ones we offer. When our offerings serve as useful illustrations to a specific topic, you can find that information in the attached sidebars.
What is residential assisted living for seniors?
Assisted living is a specialized residential option that bridges the gap between independent living and round-the-clock care. It is designed for seniors who require some level of assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing and medication management. These communities provide a safe and supportive environment, ensuring that residents receive the personalized care they need while preserving their dignity and autonomy. Residents are encouraged to live as independently as possible and participate in engaging social and physical activities.
Is my loved one a good candidate for assisted living?
Assisted living senior housing is ideal for older adults and individuals who:
Still want to experience a socially active lifestyle
Desire to stay independent despite chronic health conditions
Are unable to maintain their own home or drive safely
Can no longer cook nutritionally healthy meals
Need daily personal care
Require help with dressing, bathing, eating and toileting
Have mobility problems
Do not need ongoing clinical care
Feel depressed due to social isolation
Show signs of unsafe behavior, like leaving the stove on, not locking the doors, wandering, etc.
Both independent living and assisted living retirement communities are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults, offering a maintenance-free lifestyle along with a range of planned activities and communal dining experiences.
While independent living communities feature safety modifications such as nonslip flooring, grab bars and wide hallways, they are specifically designed for older adults who maintain their mobility and independence in day-to-day self-care routines. It’s important to note that independent living does not provide staff qualified to oversee residents’ medications.
Memory care or assisted living?
Memory care residences provide a haven of safety and dedicated support for seniors facing challenges such as dementia, Alzheimer’s and other cognitive difficulties. Highly trained staff diligently monitor medications and extend compassionate personal assistance, ensuring residents’ well-being. Through comforting routines and thoughtfully crafted activities, these residences offer a structured and enriching daily living experience.
In response to the growing demand for specialized care, numerous assisted living communities have embraced the concept of memory care and incorporated designated spaces to cater specifically to the unique needs of residents facing memory-related conditions.
Skilled nursing or assisted living?
Currently, approximately 1.3 million people reside in skilled nursing communities across the United States. For individuals in need of comprehensive, round-the-clock care, skilled nursing facilities employ a team of dedicated professional and technical staff to meet those needs. This highly trained team includes physicians, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses who work tirelessly to monitor residents’ health conditions and administer rehabilitative therapies. For short-term care needs, Medicare Part A can often cover the associated costs.
In contrast, assisted living communities do not offer clinical care services. As a result, these communities place a stronger emphasis on providing a variety of social activities to promote engagement and foster a cozy atmosphere for residents.
Senior Living Community Amenities and Services
What are the advantages of assisted living?
The benefits of assisted living include the combination of compassionate care that helps individuals with activities of daily living, paired with a lifestyle full of social activities, wellness programs and community outings designed to help seniors thrive. These mental and physical benefits can help you and your loved ones look forward to your next chapter. Get ready – it’s going to be a good one.
Mental Benefits
Social engagement: Assisted living promotes socialization through various activities, outings and events. Regular interaction with peers fosters a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness, contributing to improved mental well-being.
Mental stimulation: Engaging in stimulating activities like games, arts and crafts, and educational programs keeps the mind active and sharp, enhancing cognitive function and reducing the risk of cognitive decline
Reduced stress: The availability of personalized care and support in assisted living can alleviate stress and anxiety, allowing residents to focus on enjoying their daily activities and pursuits.
Emotional support: Assisted living communities provide emotional support and companionship, helping residents build meaningful connections with both staff and fellow residents.
Freedom from household chores: By relieving seniors of household chores and maintenance responsibilities, assisted living allows them to focus on activities they enjoy, leading to reduced stress and increased emotional well-being.
Improved quality of life: The combination of personalized care, social engagement and access to various amenities can significantly improve the overall quality of life for older adults in assisted living.
Physical Benefits
1. Personalized care: Assisted living provides personalized assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing and medication management. This level of support ensures that residents receive the help they need to maintain their physical health and hygiene.
2. Nutritious meals: Assisted living communities typically offer well-balanced, chef-prepared meals tailored to residents’ dietary needs and preferences. Proper nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining physical health and vitality.
3. Medication management: Trained staff help residents manage their medications, ensuring that they take the right doses at the correct times. This reduces the risk of medication-related complications and promotes better health outcomes.
4. Regular health monitoring: Many assisted living facilities provide regular health checkups and monitoring of vital signs, enabling early detection of health issues and timely intervention.
5. Fitness and exercise programs: Assisted living communities often offer fitness classes and exercise programs designed to improve mobility, strength and overall physical health.
6. Safe environment: Assisted living residences are designed with senior safety in mind, featuring features like handrails, emergency call systems and non-slip flooring to reduce the risk of falls and accidents.
The average cost of assisted living in the United States ranges from $3,500 to $7,000 per month. However, it’s important to note that the costs can vary significantly depending on the location and the level of care provided.
How does one pay for assisted living?
Savings, investments, pensions, Social Security and proceeds from home sales combine to pay for this expense, although for some, that’s not enough. While health insurance doesn’t cover these costs, long-term care policies may. If your loved one has served in the military, check with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for eligibility and benefits.
Does Medicare pay for assisted living?
Neither Medicare nor Medicare Advantage will pay for assisted living senior housing.
Does Medicaid pay for assisted living?
Low-income individuals may be eligible to use Medicaid for some costs, but benefits vary from state to state. This federal program can help pay for assisted living and memory care services. These services include:
Personal care assistance like dressing, eating, bathing and toileting
Maintenance services, including grocery shopping, meal preparation, housekeeping and laundry
Transportation
Personal emergency response systems
Medicaid will not pay for room and board.
You’ll be given brochures explaining the community’s philosophy and the services it provides when you visit. But that’s just the start. Ask for a written copy of the following:
Residents’ rights
Emergency procedures
Financial policies
Contracts
State and local inspection survey results
Newsletters and calendars of events
On your visit, look for the community’s safety features. You should see marked exits, handrails, grab bars, walk-in baths and showers, non-slip flooring and wide doorways. The community should be clean and cared for both inside and out. Also, expect to see comfortable shared spaces and smiles from residents and staff.
What questions should I ask when I visit?
Here are our top 20 questions:
How many residents live here?
What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
What kind of training do you give your staff? What are their credentials?
What are your safety measures for building security?
Can I see your emergency alert system?
How are care plans determined, and who makes the assessment?
What are the procedures for COVID-19?
How do you help your residents manage medication?
What amenities are there?
Do you allow pets?
Do you allow smoking?
Do you have a calendar of daily activities? How often are those activities scheduled in the local community?
How do you welcome new members into your community?
How do you encourage your residents to participate in activities?
Do you prepare meals in-house?
Are there visiting hours? Can family members drop by anytime?
What kind of transportation do you offer? Can residents schedule it to get to appointments? How far do you travel?
How do you resolve residents’ or families’ concerns?
How do you handle situations when residents want or need to move?
How do you monitor resident and family satisfaction?
Live as independently as you want with as much support as you need
Assisted living is an empowering senior care option that enables older adults to maintain theirindependence while receiving the necessary support and care. The range of services and amenities offered in these communities ensures residents can lead fulfilling and enriched lives.
Understanding the costs involved and making an informed choice empower families to provide their loved ones with the best possible care and a nurturing environment where they can age gracefully and happily. With the right assisted living community, you can rest assured that your loved one will be well cared for, socially engaged and surrounded by compassionate individuals who prioritize their well-being.
This educational article was written by the team at Hawthorn Senior Living.
Is Independent Living the right choice for you?
As we age, the idea of maintaining our independence becomes more and more important. That’s where independent senior living comes in. If you’re considering this retirement lifestyle choice for yourself or a loved one, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of senior living.
From social activities to dining choices and unique floor plans, independent living offers a world of possibilities. So, let’s dive in and discover if it’s the right choice for you.
Our homes are filled with memories of family, friends and good times. Homes reflect who we are. Homes reflect our stories and our journeys. And while changing your living space, cleaning out your closets, and starting a new chapter can sound frightening, the move to independent senior living can be the catalyst that helps you live vibrantly while protecting your health, happiness and future.
Statement of Fairness: Considering senior living options for yourself or a loved one? We’re here to help at every step. And even though we specialize in Independent and Assisted Living communities, our goal is for YOU to find your best path to gracious retirement living, and part of how we achieve that is by providing reliable information on all types of senior living, not just the ones we offer. When our offerings serve as useful illustrations to a specific topic, you can find that information in the attached sidebar.
What is Independent Senior Living?
If you’re an older adult who doesn’t need help with daily living routines – like dressing, hygiene and medication management – independent retirement facilities were built with you in mind. These communities are designed to give older adults a sense of belonging, a safe place to live, social opportunities, and programs that meet their physical and emotional needs.
Can you relate to any of these common retirement concerns?
Being alone.
As we age, it’s not uncommon to find ourselves spending more time alone. We simply don’t have as many social connections as we used to, and being alone can be difficult.
Staying mentally and physically active.
A healthy lifestyle can prevent or slow down change to maintain energy, mental clarity and physical resilience.
Home upkeep.
If your home care still includes mowing the lawn, shopping for groceries, washing the floors, doing laundry and tidying up, your to-do list never ends. Finding reliable and affordable help takes time, research and scheduling.
Safety.
When someone rings your doorbell, what’s your first thought? If crime statistics have put you on alert, living alone can disrupt your sense of security, no matter how nice your neighborhood is or how long you’ve been living there.
Financial security.
Whether you’re a renter or a homeowner, rising housing costs and taxes can place a significant burden on your fixed-income household, according to a Bipartisan Policy Center study cited by the USDepartment of Housing.
If you’re nodding your head, you’re not alone. We talk to a lot of older adults who tell us the same things about the cost of living. The latest US census tells us that nearly a third of older adults live alone in America. That equates to about 14 million people who share your concerns.
We know the choices, research, and all the phone calls and visits can feel downright overwhelming, so let’s start with the facts about independent senior living.
What are the benefits of independent living?
Communities offer a long list of goodies. Adults looking for positive, healthy aging in independent living facilities enjoy:
Are there different kinds of senior independent housing?
Depending on your lifestyle and budget and whether you require extra services, you can buy or rent a home, condominium, townhouse or apartment, along with extra storage space.
As you begin your research on your senior living options, you’ll find three kinds of housing.
55+ communities.
A 55+ community, also known as an active adult community, is a residential neighborhood in which you buy a home designed specifically for adults age 55 and older. These communities typically offer a range of amenities and services tailored to the interests of this age group, such as recreational facilities, fitness centers, golf courses, social clubs and organized activities. The goal is to create an environment for residents who are retired or nearing retirement age. Many 55+ communities also offer maintenance-free living options for residents who prefer to spend their time pursuing hobbies and interests rather than maintaining a large home and yard.
If you buy a home in a 55+ community, you’ll have far less maintenance to do, although you may find the homeowners association fees high, and your options can be limited.
Continuing care retirement communities.
Independent living in a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) offers seniors the opportunity to maintain their independence while also having access to a range of supportive services as they age.
CCRCs often have a tiered system of care that allows residents to move from independent living to assisted living or even skilled nursing care if needed without having to leave the community.
What is dining like in senior independent living?
What is there to do when you live in a retirement community?
Activity Coordinators put together a full schedule of things to do with lots of opportunities to socialize. Calendars fill up with arts, crafts, games, fitness classes, parties, holiday celebrations, outings, workshops, clubs and classes. The list goes on and on.
What services do senior living facilities offer?
Depending on where you live, light housekeeping and laundry services may be available as part of your monthly payments or for an extra fee. Washers and dryers are available in some residences.
Seniors can hop on the transportation bus to local events, appointments and shopping.
Think about all the decisions you’ve made in your life. As you enter your retirement years, the decisions you make now are just as significant. When you start considering all your choices for senior living, it can be quite challenging to narrow down your options.
Depending on guidance from your loved ones can be tough, especially when their own schedules are so busy. You don’t want to put any extra pressure on them. That’s why it’s important to educate yourself about senior living communities, weighing both the benefits and drawbacks so that you can make a decision that will lead you toward your own version of happily ever after.
What is the best place to live for seniors?
Let’s start by comparing two main types of senior living communities: independent living and continuing care retirement communities, also known as CCRCs. As you consider both choices, you’ll want to be clear about the differences between the two.
Independent living communities are designed for adults who typically don’t need help with the activities of daily living. If they do need additional help, they’ll need to seek it out without relying on the community’s staff. Residents enjoy all the amenities, services, and care support offered in their monthly rental fees.
CCRCs, or continuing care retirement communities, are designed for independent seniors who anticipate needing a significant level of medical care or daily living assistance in the future. Based on that, they live in apartments or suites devoted to independent living, assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing. Before moving in, residents sign a contract and pay an entrance fee along with additional monthly fees.
The best choice for you will depend on your individual needs.
Would senior independent living be a good choice for me?
Senior independent living was designed for people who:
Are 55 and older.
Are relatively healthy and active.
Do not need help with daily routines like dressing, bathing, eating or medication monitoring.
Like to socialize and continue their hobbies and interests.
Want to live in a place of their own with freedom from home maintenance and upkeep.
What’s a day like in an independent living community?
Here’s how Bonnie Harris describes independent living at Hawthorn Senior Living.
“I love living here because the apartments are very nice. I feel like a princess when I walk into the beautiful dining room. They prepare three meals a day of delicious food, which makes me happy because I do not like to cook. The activity director is my favorite – she is one in a million. My favorite activity is trivia. I have so much fun.”
Bonnie was able to choose an apartment with a floor plan she likes. She can stay in and relax or head out and socialize with her friends. She’s always welcome to share chef-prepared meals and be served restaurant-style in the community dining room.
Because independent living seniors like Bonnie are still on the go, scheduled transportation can drive her to local events, shopping and appointments.
From cultural and educational experiences to arts and crafts workshops, clubs, and fitness classes, Bonnie stays as busy as she likes. There’s a full calendar of activities at Sanford Estates that caters to her interests and hobbies.
Why does independent living make sense?
You get all the benefits of independent senior living without the legal and financial risks of a CCRC’s contracts and costs.
What is a CCRC?
CCRC stands for continuing care retirement community. You’ll sometimes hear it called a “life plan” community. In this type of senior housing, you’ll find:
Independent living apartments, townhomes or stand-alone houses.
Assisted living apartments or studios.
Memory care apartments or studios for individuals diagnosed with dementia, Alzheimer’s or other cognitive difficulties.
Skilled nursing suites for people who need long- or short-term round-the-clock care from a professional staff who monitors health conditions and provides intensive rehabilitative therapies.
It’s hard to know what your future holds. You may never need anything more than an independent living situation. While that would be a good thing, you’d be paying for services at a CCRC that you might not ever need.
What do I need to know about contracts before I make my decision?
If you move into a continuing care retirement community, you’ll be required to sign a complex, legally binding contract and pay an entrance fee along with monthly fees. If you run out of savings or choose to move, your entrance fee may or may not be refundable to you or your estate beneficiaries, depending on your contract. If the property is sold while you are living there, the terms of your contract may change. Ask the advice of a lawyer and financial advisor to avoid hidden costs and pitfalls.
When you move into independent living like Hawthorn Senior Living, you’ll sign a simple rental agreement. This allows you to enjoy the community as a short- or long-term senior living option.
Do all CCRCs make you sign a contract?
Yes. CCRCs all have contracts. These buy-in contracts typically come in three forms and determine the amount you’ll pay as an entrance fee.
1. Extensive life-care contract (Type A). Assisted living, along with medical and nursing care, will be provided at no extra cost to you. You are prepaying for health care services that you may or may not need in the future.
2. Modified contracts (Type B). You’ll receive medical services for a limited time and up to a certain dollar amount. If you need more care in the future, your costs will rise.
3. Fee-for-service contracts (Type C). This is a pay-as-you-go model, and while this is the least expensive amount initially, the monthly fees keep adding up as the services you need increase.
What do I need to know about costs before I make my decision?
The decision to live in a CCRC means you’ll be making a major upfront financial investment in the form of an entrance fee and paying even more money in monthly charges. This can mean spending the majority of your lifetime savings. Many people use up the profits from their house sale, pensions, long-term care insurance and other retirement savings to make that large initial investment.
When you move into independent living at Hawthorn Senior Living, you’ll pay only month-to-month rent. You’ll never be charged an entrance fee or additional monthly fees. You get to keep the nest egg you’ve worked so hard for throughout your lifetime.
Download our Senior Living Cost Worksheet to create a snapshot of your current budget. Then compare those amounts to the entrance costs and extra monthly fees you will be responsible for at a CCRC.
What’s the difference between independent living at a CCRC versus traditional independent living?
Level of care:
Independent living communities do not provide personal care. At CCRCs, you’ll find housing for independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing.
Cost:
Independent living communities are usually less expensive than CCRCs.
Commitment:
Independent living communities typically do not require a long-term commitment, while CCRCs often require a one-year or longer commitment.
Location:
Independent living communities are often located in suburban or rural areas. CCRCs are most often located in metropolitan areas.
How do I make the choice between senior independent living on its own or as part of a CCRC?
Although a CCRC has a higher cost and contract, the advantages are:
Although you may never need assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing, you have the option to stay in the same community if your health changes.
You can plan and prepare for your future care needs in advance.
A CCRC can accommodate you and your spouse if you have different levels of health or mobility, although you may not be able to live in the same apartment.
Before you visit continuing care communities, take a look at your current budget. Will you be able to cover the upfront costs of moving in as well as the monthly fees? Our free senior living cost sheet can help you get an estimate of the costs associated with different types of senior living arrangements.
Choose an independent living retirement community if:
You want to feel at home in a place where you feel loved and connected.
You want to live out your retirement years without all the work of home ownership.
You’re looking forward to staying active and involved in your community.
You are a healthy and independent active adult who is comfortable managing your own care.
You don’t want to pay a higher price for care that you may never need.
Signing a complex contract with a high financial obligation sounds risky to you.
Should I make the move to senior living?
Forget about the old notions that you may have had about retirement homes. Senior living communities are now active places that cater to the interests and needs of older adults. While there are many types of senior living to consider, making an informed decision means comparing the important differences between communities.
What are the benefits of moving to senior living?
Here are just a few of the good things about a retirement community.
Socialization:
Being around other people is good for you – both mentally and physically. Retirement communities provide many great opportunities to socialize with your family and other community members. Activity directors plan games, classes, parties, holiday celebrations, outings and more. These fun events make it easy for you to stay active and engaged while living your best life.
Security:
Security is of utmost importance in a retirement community. With emergency alert pendants, secure apartments and fall prevention measures in place, seniors can rest assured that their safety is paramount. Whether the community employs security guards or has gated entryways, residents enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are protected from potential harm.
Amenities:
Retirement communities often feature a variety of amenities, such as dining rooms, swimming pools, fitness centers, hair salons and libraries. These amenities are hubs of activity and key to helping you thrive in your new home.
Care:
Some retirement communities offer continuing care, which means they provide various services depending on people’s needs. Independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing support seniors in their well-being and daily living.
You’re invited to visit us at Hawthorn Senior Living.
At Hawthorn Senior Living, we like to keep things simple – simply wonderful, simply fun and simply the right choice for independent senior living. We’re ready to answer all your questions. Come for a visit and enjoy one of our delicious meals. We can’t wait to meet you.
