Last Updated: January 11, 2018
Assisted living communities can be pricey. An A Place for Mom Cost of Senior Care Survey recently found that the national average price for an assisted living apartment is around $3750 per month. In some regions, the cost is significantly higher.
Seniors who have few assets and a low income can apply for Medicaid, but because its eligibility requirements are strict, many families are stuck in a position where their loved one is financially overqualified for Medicaid, but also cannot afford private pay care. Seniors in this position can create what’s called a “Miller Trust,” whereby they sign most of their assets and income over to the state to become qualified for Medicaid. But this tends to be a last resort option and it can be easier to look for affordable private pay options.
Quality Assisted Living on a Budget
Here are some tips to help you find affordable assisted living communities that can be trusted to care for your senior loved one:
1. Ask about move-in incentives.
Assisted living communities may have an official price, but it’s usually not set in stone. The communities work hard to keep their occupancy high, and often offer significant discounts to encourage families to choose their community. These incentives can take many forms, including discounting rent, rent freezes and waiving the entry fee. Don’t be afraid to ask about these incentives and even to negotiate the price.
2. Consider a smaller living space.
Naturally, larger apartments are more expensive. If you have a low-budget, look at smaller living spaces. Assisted living and nursing home residents whose care is paid for by Medicaid almost always have to share rooms in any event, so whether you’re looking for affordable private pay options, or using Medicaid, it may not be possible to leave this option off the table.
3. Look at inspection reports.
You can’t determine the quality of care at a community by superficial appearances. A luxurious community may have a history of sub-standard care, while an older, more tired-looking community ma, in fact,t offer outstanding care. Viewing inspection reports may help you find a diamond in the rough. Find your local Long-Term Care Ombudsman and ask them about the histories of communities that you are considering. Many states also maintain searchable databases of licensed assisted living communities and their inspections reports.
4. Look outside of your ideal location.
Assisted living communities are all about “location, location, location.” Communities in areas with lower land value are less expensive. If you live in a big city, explore communities in the suburbs or in more affordable neighborhoods.
5. Talk to a Senior Living Advisor.
We know the pricing of each and every community in our nationwide network of assisted living communities. Our Senior Living Advisors refer only communities that match your budget so your search can be as efficient as possible. We work only with licensed communities and conduct violation-audits of partner communities to make sure we’re referring trustworthy options.
To discuss care options with an experienced advisor call: (866) 333-8391.
What advice do you have about finding affordable senior care on a budget? Share your tips with us in the comments below.
I'm hesitant to speculate, but I bet if you shared the home with another older woman it might work out, especially since it's so big. That's just an idea.
Best
Jeff
AssistedLiving.com Tean