Our seniors today are fortunate. They have many housing options that were not available even just a few years ago. They can gracefully “age in place” with the assistance of electronic devices for safety and convenience. Or they can have caretakers or health care professionals make scheduled visits to their homes. There are also companies that can place a person in the home to help with day to day needs of all kinds.
Multi-generational living arrangements is also a great option for many families. Mom, dad or grandparents coming to live with their kids or grandkids. They have the extra room or an ADU unit in the back yard or the basement gets finished for them. Many families purchase a duplex style home or ones with a “mother-in-law” unit so the seniors can maintain their autonomy but still be close enough to be cared for if necessary.
The greatest change for senior housing is in senior housing communities. It is nothing less than revolutionary. Gone are the days of the sterile, cold nursing homes. Modern senior housing communities are as varied as the seniors who live in them. They are bright and vibrant. They range from the “resort” style of communities where the residence come and go as they please like snowbirds up to full care facilities where all meals are served, and nurses are on site 24/7.
Senior communities’ services range from independent living to assisted living to full care to dementia care. Many communities offer these services in the same location so the Senior can remain in the same familiar surroundings with people they know.
Residence can have amenities to choose from like a pool, exercise room, community dining and activity rooms, movie theaters, walking trails. Some even have bowling alleys and lounges. Seniors can either purchase or rent their units depending on the community.
Unfortunately, these communities are not inexpensive. Prices can range from $4000 to $10,000 per month and more. It depends on the services and amenities the senior needs, wants to enjoy and can afford. This housing expense can be daunting for the whole family.
On the bright side, there are many ways to cover the cost of these expenses. Probably many more than you are aware of. The money spent for our loved one’s housing and care must be carefully planned. The goal is maximum results with minimum stress for everyone.
The vast array of available options is why I specialize in senior housing. Call me when you have questions on this subject. I will be happy to talk with you about it
