Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Is Memory Care Considered Skilled Nursing?

Is Memory Care Considered Skilled Nursing

Many people may be wondering what the differences are between skilled nursing and memory care. Let’s take a closer look at this senior care level below.

Is Memory Care Regarded As Skilled Nursing?

Yes, memory care is considered skilled nursing and it can also be administered by a personal care provider. The primary goal of skilled nursing services is to rehabilitate a patient’s specific health-related needs. Memory care services are designed to care for patients suffering from Dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Differences Between Memory Care And Skilled Nursing

Memory care communities feature specialized care for people suffering from Dementia or Alzheimer’s. Patients living at these facilities will have structured activities throughout the day to keep them on a routine, which often lessens stress levels. These activities will focus on cognitive stimulation, targeting memory difficulties.

Memory care offers more patient supervision than most other care levels. This is due to the fact that most people with memory-related issues have a tendency to wander. Memory care facilities are safer because doors and/or elevators are usually locked or armed with alarms. Outdoor recreation areas are typically locked and gated to keep all patients safe and accounted for.

What Level Of Care Is Memory Care?

In general, memory care is a higher level of care, but it will depend on the patient’s specific needs. These needs will be based on such things as the stage of Dementia or Alzheimer’s, if applicable. This level of care can be provided in-home or at a memory care community.

How Much Does Memory Care Cost?

The average costs for memory care ranges from $1,595 – $9,715+ a month. Prices shift depending on location, services, and elderly care needs. While many services such as meals, medication handling, and group activities will be included, others will not. I.e., residents could have access to clothe washing services, lunch trips, or beauty amenities, like haircuts or pedicures, but those could cost extra.

Why Choose Memory Care For Your Loved One

Dementia and Alzheimer’s are very familiar types of memory loss circumstances that will be included in memory care. This is a dedicated care that will go through a variety of services that will depend on the seriousness of the symptoms, like 24-hour emergency call service.

Memory care will go further than what is typically offered in assisted living. Housekeeping, the preparation of food, and clothes washing services are generally provided, but the level of needed assistance with daily activities is increased. There also may be times when daily activities are designed specifically for a person that will allow them to reconnect with their interests or old hobbies.

As the communities can recognize the care challenges for elderly people who have dementia or Alzheimer’s, they may just provide memory care or, for continuing care communities may provide a neighborhood strictly for memory care. More often than not, it is these communities that will have fixed design elements that will lower the stress for those who have dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Memory Care Facilities Near Me

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Memory Care
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Regular Post
Written by Brian B

When Should Seniors Sell Their Home?

When Should Seniors Sell Their Home

A senior’s decision to sell their home can be a complicated one with many complex factors. We’ve compiled a list of 5 considerations for every senior thinking about selling their home.

Consideration 1. What Is The Cost Of Staying At Home?

While you may have already completely paid off your home, the cost of staying there may be a bit higher than expected. There are many big costs that come with maintaining your home, such as replacing an AC unit or adding a new roof. Older homes require more maintenance needs, and the longer you live in the home, the greater the expenses become.

Another important cost factor to be mindful of is property taxes. Even if you do not have a mortgage payment, you will continue to pay these taxes while owning your home. There are a few recurring costs to consider, including the following:

  • Utilities
  • Heating
  • Cooling
  • Lawn maintenance
  • Internet
  • Trash pickup
  • And more!

Consideration 2. Can You Move Around Your Home Safely?

At-home falls are one of leading causes of injury among senior citizens. At a certain point, it will be ideal to make some safety updates to your home. Many dangers can exist in the home like basement stairs, porch steps, and other obstacles that make it hard to navigate.

Aging adults who have lost a bit of balance may be at a higher risk of tripping and falling at home. Safety needs to be the top concern for every senior struggling to decide between selling their home or staying put.

Consideration 3. What Is The Current Housing Market?

Before listing your home, it’s wise to take into account what your current housing market looks like. A hot housing market could lead to a great return on your investment. A cold market, however, is not an ideal time to list your home.

If you are thinking of putting your house on the market, it’s always a good idea to speak with a local realtor who can discuss your options.

Consideration 4. Can You Handle All Home Maintenance Needs?

A lot of homeowners can simply pick up a phone and call a service to take care of maintenance projects like mowing the lawn. This is not always an affordable option, though.

Aging poses a serious threat to homeowners wishing to take care of maintenance needs themselves. Maintaining a house involves significant tasks like landscaping and gutter cleaning. Homes undoubtedly become harder to maintain as the years go on.

Consideration 5. Could You Benefit From Assisted Living Care?

The time may be right for you to enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle. Assisted living communities are great for seniors looking for less stress and household chores.

These communities provide personalized care to seniors in a residential setting. Here is a quick look at services provided by most assisted living communities:

  • Housekeeping
  • Meals
  • Medication needs
  • Laundry
  • Transportation
  • And more!

Why Should You Sell Your Home And Move Into A Senior Living Community?

Let’s take a look at a few of the benefits a senior living community can provide for senior citizens.

Lower Stress Levels For Your Loved One

Assisted living helps lover stress levels in your loved one and improves the quality of life for all involved. Seniors can enjoy their independence while receiving the care and help they require while the loved ones families no longer have concerns about fulfilling their loved one’s needs.

One benefit to assisted living surroundings is that they permit seniors who may have physical issues or the early onset of Alzheimer’s or dementia to live a moderately independent way of life. The facility will usually have on-site medical care, but it will not be there 24/7. An assisted living facility will offer a care level that is suitable for seniors who do not need full-time care, but may require assistance with their meds, eating or food preparation, and other day to day activities.

Contentment And Your Loved Ones Protection

Members of the family will no longer will be concerned about their loved one getting used, falling down, getting lost because of wandering, not eating a healthy diet or taking the incorrect medication. The living facility will take every means they have to ensure your loved ones are continually safe and protected.

The Social Life Of Your Loved One

It’s not that surprising for seniors to start to become lonely as they get up in age. Loneliness in seniors may lead to a lot of complications, ranging from poor health or bouts of depression, problems being active and more.

In the assisted living facility, the residents belong to a part of a supportive, loving, and caring community. Your loved one will surrounded by seniors their own age and have numerous opportunities to socialize and take joy in the company of other seniors.

Increased Activity For Your Loved One

It’s very important that we stay active as we age. Assisted living seniors are offered a bunch of indoor activities as well as outdoor activities from strolling in the courtyard, to gardening, or picnics. Some assisted living communities will offer their residents transportation, so they can go on excursions, go to the corner market or visit the doctor’s office.

Assistance In Day-to-Day Duties

It’s very essential for seniors to have their independence, but also have the assistance they need. Assisted living communities provide their residents with help, only when needed, with daily living undertakings, such as dressing, preparing meals and eating or laundry duties.

Who Qualifies For Assisted Living

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Senior Living
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Regular Post
Written by Brian B

What Sense Is Most Affected By Alzheimer’s Disease?

What Sense Is Most Affected By Alzheimer's Disease

Which one of the senses is most impacted by Alzheimer’s disease? Generally, smell is the first sense affected by the disease, but every sense can become impaired.

Smell

Smell is typically the first sense to be impacted by Alzheimer’s. Individuals will become confused as to what exactly they are smelling. This can become dangerous at home if something is burning in the oven or on the stove.

Some common sense measures that can keep your loved one safe include:

  • Keep all cleaning supplies locked away in a cabinet.
  • Make weekly refrigerator/freezer checks to ensure all food is up to date.
  • Ensure smoke detectors are always working properly.

Sight

While the eyes may not show any physical abnormalities, the brain’s ability to interpret some images could become impaired. This could create confusion and anxiety all while not being able to recognize familiar people, places, and objects. Colors and shapes may also be difficult to process, making sudden movements quite dangerous.

Making bold color contrasts in common areas can make a difference for anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s. Placing picture signs on doors and cabinets can help to identify needed items.

Taste

Whenever our ability to smell is impaired, the ability to taste is also impacted. Most dangers and cautions related to smell also apply to this sense.

Touch

Touch is also affected by Alzheimer’s. Individuals may have difficulty feeling the sensations of hot and cold.

Since this is potentially dangerous, it’s suggested to put these safeguards in place:

  • Install anti-scold devices on your plumbing.
  • Install safety devices to make stovetops and ovens unusable.
  • Keep individuals warm in the winter and well hydrated on hotter days.
  • Color code for any areas that are hot/cold, if possible.
  • Place a warning sticker on oven.

Hearing

Alzheimer’s can impact hearing even in individuals who test well when it comes to hearing. The disease causes difficulty processing certain words and sounds. This can make noises very confusing overall.

Try as hard as possible to maintain a calm and quiet environment with few distractions or background noises. Always speak to the individual slowly and use short statements.

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Dementia
1
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How Much Is Memory Care Per Month (2024)

Memory Care Cost

The average cost of memory care is $5,655 a month with costs ranging from $1,595 to $9,715 in Arizona.

Memory Care Cost Per Month

The average costs for memory care ranges from $1,595 – $9,715+ a month. Prices shift depending on location, services, and elderly care needs. While many services such as meals, medication handling, and group activities will be included, others will not. I.e., residents could have access to clothe washing services, lunch trips, or beauty amenities, like haircuts or pedicures, but those could cost extra.

Questions To Ask About Memory Care Costs

When you are considering memory care as an option, it’s vital to ask the right questions to fully understand the costs of this type of care.

Here are a few questions to ask about memory care costs:

  • What is the base cost of care and what services/amenities are included?
  • Are there any financial assistance programs available to help cover costs?
  • Are there any additional fees, such as transportation services?
  • How do costs change based on the level of care?
  • Will costs increase over time?
  • Is there a minimum stay requirement, and will there be penalties for early termination?

How To Pay For Memory Care

When a senior is suffering with Alzheimer’s of Huntington’s disease, keeping them safe and well takes precedence that could be mentally and emotionally draining on their loved ones. Concerning demeanors that can be hard to safely control, such as roaming and aggressiveness, begin to emerge. For family care takers, like spouses and adult children, fulfilling their loved one’s complicating — and changing — requirements can be a major struggle.

The following are some ways to pay for memory care:

  • Medicare.
  • Medicaid.
  • Life Insurance.
  • Long-Term Care Insurance.
  • Reverse Mortgages.

Memory Care Facilities Near Me

Why Choose Memory Care For Your Loved One?

Dementia and Alzheimer’s are very familiar types of memory loss circumstances that will be included in memory care. This is a dedicated care that will go through a variety of services that will depend on the seriousness of the symptoms, like 24 hour emergency call service.

Memory care will go further than what is typically offered in assisted living. Housekeeping, the preparation of food, and clothes washing services are generally provided, but the level of needed assistance with daily activities is increased. There also may be times when daily activities are designed specifically for a person that will allow them to reconnect with their interests or old hobbies.

As the communities can recognize the care challenges for elderly people who have dementia or Alzheimer’s, they may just provide memory care or, for continuing care communities may provide a neighborhood strictly for memory care. More often than not, it is these communities that will have fixed design elements that will lower the stress for those who have dementia or Alzheimer’s.

These elements will usually include a circular neighborhood design that permits the resident for safer wandering, memory boxes outside of their apartments, with natural lighting. About 6 out of 10 elderly people with Alzheimer’s will begin to wander around the community and it is specifically designed to lower the chances of being harmed by wandering, and that may done simply adding security alarms or doing welfare and safety checks.

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Memory Care
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Who Qualifies For Assisted Living
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Who Qualifies For Assisted Living?

While many elderly individuals would rather age at home, sometimes this becomes too challenging over time. Moving to an assisted living community makes the most sense, both financially and for care purposes. Let’s take a look at the qualifications for moving to an assisted living community.

Assisted Living Admission Requirements

Assisted living requirements can change by location, but most qualifications remain the same across the country. Below are five of the most common requirements for anyone looking to move to one of these communities.

1. Medical Needs

The main focus of the staff assessing medical needs is to ensure the community can safely take care of your loved one. Some communities may offer different levels of care that can include round-the-clock checks. However, most assisted living communities are not designed to handle complex medical needs.

Typically, assisted living will come with a nurse on duty but for limited times during the week. The role of the nurse is to oversee the care and med-tech staff, overall. If an individual’s medical needs are too complex for this living situation, they may need to move to nursing home care.

2. Cognition And Behavior

The majority of assisted living communities will have some residents with mild cognitive impairment. Assisted living may accept someone who has severe memory loss, difficulty doing daily activities, or aggressive behavior.

In these situations, assisted living may recommend memory care. These communities are responsible for protecting their staff and community members from any harm.

3. Initial Assessment

Just because you can afford and pay for assisted living care doesn’t mean every community will accept you for admission. Complete admission paperwork will explain fees, responsibilities, and rules for the community.

Nurses typically assess anyone who wants to move to the community. This initial assessment will include a recent history and physical performed by the individual’s primary care physician. Required vaccines and a current medication list are also necessities.

4. Care Plan

Care plans will outline the level of care your loved one needs. This includes nursing responsibilities, amount of assistance, medication administration, dietary needs, and all personal information.

Care plans will also include the individual’s advance directive and living will. The average monthly cost of assisted living care will depend on the level of care recommended. However, this care plan is not set in stone, and is likely to be altered over time.

5. Daily Activities

The initial assessment for the individual includes examining what daily activities he or she needs help with. Possibilities include help dressing, bathing, and other daily activities from the staff.

The expectation is that assistance with these needs can change over time, as will the total cost. Of course, the more care needed, the higher the cost.

11 Signs It Might Be Time For Assisted Living

Assisted Living Coverage Options

Cost is always one of the biggest factors when it comes to choosing the right assisted living community for your loved one. Prices for assisted living care will depend on floorplans, services, amenities, accommodations, and location. As you carefully select the type of care you’d prefer, you must know how the expenses will be covered if Medicare helps with any of the costs.

Medicare For Assisted Living

Typically, Medicare will not extend coverage for long-term or assisted living care. There are certain situations where Medicare covers qualified healthcare costs at these communities. Medicare is generally used to cover the costs of home healthcare that’s provided by skilled nursing facilities.

Medicaid For Assisted Living

In the state of Arizona, the Arizona Long Term Care System pays for care-related services for state residents living in assisted living communities. The System, however, will not pay for room and board. Assisted living residents will be responsible for different basic living costs depending on their coverage and location.

Other Financing Options For Assisted Living

There are some assisted living communities in Arizona that offer private funding options for residents. If an individual happens to have long-term care insurance, this will cover a portion of the costs associated with assisted living.

In most cases, assisted living residents pay for care out-of-pocket. They fund these services by selling assets like homes or other valuable properties. There is a wide variety of resources and ways that seniors pay for assisted living care.

Does Medicare Pay For Assisted Living

Assisted Living At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our assisted living or memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

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Does Medicare Pay For Memory Care
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Does Medicare Pay For Memory Care?

Medicare is a federally funded health insurance plan for citizens and legal residents of the U.S. who are at least 65 years of age or older. Medicare can also be utilized by individuals who have a qualifying illness or disability. Let’s take a look at when Medicare will pay for memory care costs.

The four main parts of Medicare include Medicare Part A, B, C, and D.

  • Medicare, Part A: This plan covers inpatient hospital care, nursing home care, skilled nursing facility care, and home health care.
  • Medicare, Part B: This plan covers medical necessities like equipment, testing, occupational therapy, and outpatient care. Physical exams and cancer screenings will also be covered.
  • Medicare, Part C: Helps pay for vision insurance, dental insurance, mental health services, and prescription medications.
  • Medicare, Part D: Will provide access to an outside insurance company’s network of pharmacies for a monthly premium.

What Is Memory Care?

Dementia and Alzheimer’s are very familiar types of memory loss circumstances that will be included in memory care. This is a dedicated care that will go through a variety of services that will depend on the seriousness of the symptoms, like 24-hour emergency call service.

Memory care will go further than what is typically offered in assisted living. Housekeeping, the preparation of food, and clothes washing services are generally provided, but the level of needed assistance with daily activities is increased. There also may be times when daily activities are designed specifically for a person that will allow them to reconnect with their interests or old hobbies.

As the communities can recognize the care challenges for elderly people who have dementia or Alzheimer’s, they may just provide memory care or, for continuing care communities may provide a neighborhood strictly for memory care. More often than not, it is these communities that will have fixed design elements that will lower the stress for those who have dementia or Alzheimer’s.

These elements will usually include a circular neighborhood design that permits the resident for safer wandering, memory boxes outside of their apartments, with natural lighting. About 6 out of 10 elderly people with Alzheimer’s will begin to wander around the community and it is specifically designed to lower the chances of being harmed by wandering, and that may done simply adding security alarms or doing welfare and safety checks.

How Much Does Memory Care Cost?

The average cost of memory care is $5,655 a month with costs ranging from $1,595 to $9,715 in Arizona.

The average costs for memory care ranges from $1,595 – $9,715+ a month. Prices shift dependent on location, services, and elderly care needs. While many services such as meals, medication handling, and group activities will be included, others will not. I.e., residents could have access to clothe washing services, lunch trips, or beauty amenities, like haircuts or pedicures, but those could cost extra.

Memory Care Cost

When Medicare Will Or Will Not Cover Memory Care Costs

The majority of qualified individuals will be automatically enrolled in Medicare, Part A and B, but there are some cases where you must enroll manually through the Social Security Administration. Those who have paid enough in Social Security and payroll tax may not be forced to pay the premium for Medicare, Part A. Medicare, Part B, C, and D will require premiums which depend on the coverage level selected.

Medicare will cover some, but not all, costs related to a memory care facility. Medicare will typically cover the following:

  • Meals.
  • Inpatient hospital care.
  • Semi-private rooms.
  • Medications.
  • Hospital supplies.
  • General nursing care.
  • Diagnostic testing.
  • Skilled nursing care (100 days).
  • Hospice care.

Alternative Financing Options For Memory Care Costs

There are a few other resources for individuals to use in order to pay for memory care. Some residents may already have an insurance plan that covers Alzheimer’s disease care and other impairments. Individual retirement benefits could also provide a source of payment for a variety of medical needs.

Personal savings/assets can be used to help pay for memory care. There are also a variety of private organizations like a local Alzheimer’s association that offer programs to assist qualified individuals in paying for care services.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Does Medicare Pay For Assisted Living
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Does Medicare Pay For Assisted Living?

What financing options do Medicare, Medicaid, and others provide for assisted living residents? Let’s take a look below.

Assisted Living Coverage Options

Cost is always one of the biggest factors when it comes to choosing the right assisted living community for your loved one. Prices for assisted living care will depend on floorplans, services, amenities, accommodations, and location. As you carefully select the type of care you’d prefer, you must know how the expenses will be covered if Medicare helps with any of the costs.

Medicare For Assisted Living

Typically, Medicare will not extend coverage for long-term or assisted living care. There are certain situations where Medicare covers qualified healthcare costs at these communities. Medicare is generally used to cover the costs of home healthcare that’s provided by skilled nursing facilities.

Medicaid For Assisted Living

In the state of Arizona, the Arizona Long Term Care System pays for care-related services for state residents living in assisted living communities. The System, however, will not pay for room and board. Assisted living residents will be responsible for different basic living costs depending on their coverage and location.

Other Financing Options For Assisted Living

There are some assisted living communities in Arizona that offer private funding options for residents. If an individual happens to have long-term care insurance, this will cover a portion of the costs associated with assisted living.

In most cases, assisted living residents pay for care out-of-pocket. They fund these services by selling assets like homes or other valuable properties. There is a wide variety of resources and ways that seniors pay for assisted living care.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

More Articles About Senior Living

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What Are The 7 Stages Of Frontotemporal Dementia
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

What Are The 7 Stages Of Frontotemporal Dementia?

Frontotemporal dementia results from damage to neurons located in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Also referred to as frontotemporal disorders (FTD), symptoms of this disease include unusual behaviors, as well as emotional issues.

The 7 Stages Of Frontotemporal Dementia

Frontotemporal dementia, like most forms of dementia, will ultimately progress slowly. According to NIA.NIH.gov, this disease often affects individuals aged 40-60. Let’s look at the stages of this disease.

Stage 1. No Symptoms

Stage one will see the individual exhibit no symptoms whatsoever.

  • During stage one, the disease has not progressed to the point where any changes are noticeable.
  • Individuals will present themselves as completely healthy and normal, at this time.

Stage 2. Mild Symptoms

Mild symptoms will pop up during the second stage of this disease. Most dementia patients will experience memory problems as the first sign of the disease. However, this is not the case with frontotemporal dementia.

  • Patients may experience some slight changes in both social interactions and overall personality.
  • Symptoms are still very subtle during this stage.
  • A diagnosis may even be missed during stage two.
  • Some symptoms could simply be classified as stress.

Stage 3. Some Cognitive Issues

This stage is where cognitive issues are generally noticed by friends and family.

  • Changes can include declining social skills and use of language.
  • Functional and working memory will also begin to decline.
  • Obsessive behaviors can occur at this stage of the disease.
  • Symptoms displayed during stage three typically alarm loved ones.

Stage 4. Visible Symptoms

There is clearly something wrong with the individual at this point in time. Previously unrecognized signs are now obvious.

  • The individual will have trouble with normal, everyday interactions.
  • Language skills continue to decline.
  • A diagnosis made at this point could still be considered an ‘early onset’ diagnosis.
  • It’s possible some treatments could be provided to the individual, which may not work during later stages.

Stage 5. Full-Time Care Needed

This stage is typically considered the disease’s mid-point. The individual will ultimately need round-the-clock care at this point.

  • Language will be on a severe decline.
  • Poor social skills.
  • The individual may not react appropriately to most situations.
  • The disease really starts to accelerate during stage five.

Stage 6. Severe Cognitive Problems

Loss of bodily control, cognitive issues, and a decline in judgement will all occur during this stage.

  • Poor impulse control is another symptom experienced, which calls for the 24/7 caretaking.
  • Pronunciations issues will persist.
  • Individuals may try to completely isolate themselves.

Stage 7. Final Stage

The final stage is, unfortunately, the most difficult stage for the individual and loved ones.

  • Individuals will become withdrawn and struggle to communicate.
  • Assistance will be needed for every task.
  • Motor and verbal abilities will disappear.
  • Refusal to cooperate is quite common at this point.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

More Articles About Senior Living

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Retiring In Arizona Pros And Cons
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Pros And Cons Of Living In Arizona

More and more people are flocking to Arizona for the plethora of sunshine, strong economy and scenic views. If you are currently searching for “living in Arizona pros and cons“, this will be your guide!

What To Know About Living In Arizona

What should you know about the great state of Arizona before moving there? Let’s take a look at a few things that make the valley so unique.

Some Like It Hot

If you don’t mind the hot and dry summers, then you will love Arizona’s weather overall. Typically, the climate is dry and sunny throughout the year, with the winters and springs offering mild temperatures. From October to April, Arizona is a paradise for those looking for outdoor activities. The state in general sees a large influx of tourists during these months. Monsoon season is June through August, bringing some much-needed rainfall to the valley.

More Than Just A Desert

There is far more to this state than its desert landscape. Mountain ranges are always within eyesight, with colorful cacti surrounding urban areas. With 433 cities in Arizona, residents will find a variety of canyons, lakes, forests and skyscrapers.

Monsoons And Haboobs

Every area experiences inclement weather, and the valley is no exception. June to September is Arizona’s monsoon season, where residents will experience strong winds and rainstorms. Haboobs, which are large dust storms, generally follow in the monsoon’s footsteps.

It Does Snow In Arizona

The northern half of this state will experience some snowfall during wintertime. Areas like Phoenix and Tucson will remain warm year-round, but cities like Flagstaff and Sedona can become winter wonderlands.

The Wild West

Long before Arizona was even a state, it was home to some of the world’s most infamous outlaws. Many historic gunfights and showdowns occurred in the valley, as well. Many of these old western towns remain preserved, which makes for some great day-trips.

Diverse Food And Drink

Have you ever tried a Sonoran dog or cactus jelly? Well, if you move to Arizona you will have try some of their diverse food and drink offerings. Try a Sonoran dog and wash it down with the desert-inspired prickly pear margarita.

The Grand Canyon State

The world’s greatest wonder, otherwise known as the Grand Canyon, is located in Arizona. Residents can enjoy breathtaking views of the mile-deep gorge that spans 277 miles.

Growing Population

The affordable cost of living combined with a booming job market have made Arizona a premier place to live. Phoenix is listed as the 5th-largest city in the country. Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Sedona continue to grow due to many retirees settling in these areas.

Phoenix, Arizona

Living In Arizona Pros

  • Pro #1: Most Sun In The U.S.
  • Pro #2: Less Tax Burdens
  • Pro #3: Scenery
  • Pro #4: Sporting Options

Find out why so many people are deciding to call Arizona home!

Most Sun In The U.S.

This is not an exaggeration, this is a fact! According to the NOAA, Arizona residents experience more sunny days than anyone in the country. And this includes the sunshine state of Florida! Arizona typically experiences 299 sunny days per year. The rest of the U.S. averages only 205 sunny days each year.

Less Tax Burdens

Arizona offers less tax burdens for residents compared to other states. Allowing residents to keep as much of their income as possible has helped the valley grow exponentially for several decades.

Scenery

Arizona offers much more than gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. The valley of the sun is home to some of the best scenic hiking trails in the world. Sedona is home to the famous red rocks, plus mountain ranges, lakes and desert beauty can be seen all over the state.

Sporting Options

Known as a golfer’s paradise, the valley offers many world-class resorts and destinations. From Sedona to Tucson, retirees’ can enjoy their favorite hobby in style. The PGA’s Waste Management Phoenix Open is played annually in Scottsdale, as well. There’s more than just golf in Arizona, though! Residents also enjoy watching teams in all four major sports, including the Diamondbacks (MLB), Cardinals (NFL), Suns (NBA) and Coyotes (NHL).

Living In Arizona Cons

  • Con #1: Extreme Heat
  • Con #2: Snowbirds
  • Con #3: Monsoons/Haboobs

Read more about a few drawbacks of living in the valley.

Extreme Heat

From October to April, it’s nearly impossible to find a more comfortable place to call home. The summertime, though, can bring some extreme heat to the area. Arizona frequently hits triple-digit heat during summer days. The good news is an escape is not far away! If you live in Phoenix, a short two-hour drive north can get you to Flagstaff, where the month of July experiences an average temperature of 82 degrees.

Snowbirds

Many people, especially retirees, desire a place like Arizona because it seems very isolated and secluded. This is certainly not the case during the cooler months. This time of the year will bring a lot of tourists to the area. Known as “snowbirds”, these tourists will cause an increase in traffic from October to April.

Monsoons/Haboobs

Every area experiences inclement weather, and the valley is no exception. June to September is Arizona’s monsoon season, where residents will experience strong winds and rainstorms. Haboobs, which are large dust storms, generally follow in the monsoon’s footsteps.

Sedona Arizona

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Written by Brian B

What Is The Average Monthly Cost For Memory Care?

Memory Care Cost

The average cost of memory care is $5,655 a month with costs ranging from $1,595 to $9,715 in Arizona.

How Much Does Memory Care Cost Per Month?

The average costs for memory care ranges from $1,595 – $9,715+ a month. Prices shift depending on location, services, and elderly care needs. While many services such as meals, medication handling, and group activities will be included, others will not. I.e., residents could have access to clothe washing services, lunch trips, or beauty amenities, like haircuts or pedicures, but those could cost extra.

Questions To Ask About Memory Care Costs

When you are considering memory care as an option, it’s vital to ask the right questions to fully understand the costs of this type of care.

Here are a few questions to ask about memory care costs:

  • What is the base cost of care and what services/amenities are included?
  • Are there any financial assistance programs available to help cover costs?
  • Are there any additional fees, such as transportation services?
  • How do costs change based on the level of care?
  • Will costs increase over time?
  • Is there a minimum stay requirement, and will there be penalties for early termination?

How To Pay For Memory Care

When a senior is suffering with Alzheimer’s of Huntington’s disease, keeping them safe and well takes precedence that could be mentally and emotionally draining on their loved ones. Concerning demeanors that can be hard to safely control, such as roaming and aggressiveness, begin to emerge. For family care takers, like spouses and adult children, fulfilling their loved one’s complicating — and changing — requirements can be a major struggle.

The following are some ways to pay for memory care:

  • Medicare.
  • Medicaid.
  • Life Insurance.
  • Long-Term Care Insurance.
  • Reverse Mortgages.

Memory Care Facilities Near Me

Why Choose Memory Care For Your Loved One?

Dementia and Alzheimer’s are very familiar types of memory loss circumstances that will be included in memory care. This is a dedicated care that will go through a variety of services that will depend on the seriousness of the symptoms, like 24 hour emergency call service.

Memory care will go further than what is typically offered in assisted living. Housekeeping, the preparation of food, and clothes washing services are generally provided, but the level of needed assistance with daily activities is increased. There also may be times when daily activities are designed specifically for a person that will allow them to reconnect with their interests or old hobbies.

As the communities can recognize the care challenges for elderly people who have dementia or Alzheimer’s, they may just provide memory care or, for continuing care communities may provide a neighborhood strictly for memory care. More often than not, it is these communities that will have fixed design elements that will lower the stress for those who have dementia or Alzheimer’s.

These elements will usually include a circular neighborhood design that permits the resident for safer wandering, memory boxes outside of their apartments, with natural lighting. About 6 out of 10 elderly people with Alzheimer’s will begin to wander around the community and it is specifically designed to lower the chances of being harmed by wandering, and that may done simply adding security alarms or doing welfare and safety checks.

Memory Care Vs Assisted Living

Undertaking a life change can be scary and stressful—possibly a little fun too. For example, if you’re moving into an assisted living community, you might miss your home but are looking forward to forging new roads and friendships and simply making life easier. However, what if you’ve started to notice that your memory is not like what it used to be? You may have heard about “memory care” and might be wondering if it would be appropriate under your circumstances and if you can get it in an assisted living facility. Here are some explanations on what assisted living and memory care are.

An assisted living facility is one in which its residents largely lead their lives independently. They do get a little assistance for needs that differ from person to person, possibly with mobility, meal planning, transportation, hygiene or medication. You might be ready for assisted living if it is becoming hard or dangerous for you to go up and down the stairs at home or if driving is starting to get risky.

Assisted living can be in a residential-type neighborhood or large building. Some facilities allow pets and can also consist of laundry as part of the rent or for an extra fee. Learn more about assisted living and take a look at our assisted living checklist.

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

 

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