Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How Often Should You Visit A Parent In Assisted Living?

How Often Should You Visit A Parent In Assisted Living

It’s important to visit your parent in assisted living as often as you can. Your presence will offer reassurance as your parent adjusts to a new living situation. Let’s take a look at how you can determine when to visit, as well as a few schedule examples.

How To Determine How Often To Visit A Parent In Assisted Living

The majority of assisted living communities welcome friends and family to visit residents as often as they wish. Consider these few factors when determining how often you should visit your parent.

Your Parent’s Preferences

While you may want to visit your parent each and every day, they may relish their independence at this time. Talk to your parent to see exactly how often he or she would like you to visit.

Adjustment Period

It’s no secret that your parent will go through some sort of adjustment period when first moving into an assisted living community. It may take some time to meet new people and settle into a new routine. Visiting more frequently at this time can help your parent adjust to the new living situation.

Overall Health

Frequent visits can be beneficial when your parent is experiencing a health concern or medical condition. Each visit will allow you to observe any changes in their health or behavior.

Coordinated Schedules

It’s recommended to coordinate your schedules when there are multiple family members that wish to visit. This way your parent can have constant support without feeling overwhelmed when the whole family shows up together.

Activities And Events

Always try to coordinate visits on special occasions like birthdays and holidays. Most assisted living communities will host special events and activities for all to participate.

Suggested Visiting Schedules

Of course, there is no universal schedule for visiting a parent in assisted living care. Below are simply a few schedule suggestions.

Weekly Visits

Weekly visits can offer a consistent and reassuring presence for your parent. This visiting schedule is best for keeping up on any mental or physical concerns.

Bi-Weekly Or Monthly Visits

If weekly visits are not possible for you, this sort of schedule can still offer a stable presence.

Special Occasions

Always try to be there for the meaningful days like birthdays and anniversaries.

When Should You Avoid Visiting A Parent In Assisted Living?

While regular visits are undoubtedly beneficial, visiting during certain times may not work well with your parent’s well-being. For instance, seniors with mild cognitive impairments could become distressed when visited. If this is the case, you may want to restrict the frequency of your visits.

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.

Assisted Living
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Best Low Stress Jobs After Retirement
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Low Stress Jobs For Retirees

Are you looking for some work after retirement, yet want to keep the stress to a minimum? Here are a few of the best low stress jobs after retirement.

Tour Guide

There may not be a more relaxing and enjoyable job after retiring than guiding tours. With this role, you’ll likely be interacting with fun and excited tourists. Share your knowledge of the area or certain landmarks as a paid tour guide. A great benefit of this job is the flexible hours since most tours will run at nights or on the weekends.

Data Entry

Perhaps working as a tour guide doesn’t appeal to you since you’ll have to leave the home and interact with lots of people. If you’re instead interested in working from home, then a data entry position could be a perfect fit. Data entry appeals to many because you won’t have to deal with customers all day, unlike customer service representatives. All you might need for this position is a laptop and basic computer skills.

Customer Service Representative

Many people do miss the social interaction that was created in the workplace. For these type of retirees, customer service roles are ideal. In these positions, you will either speak with customers on the phone or interact with them online. A large majority of these positions went remote during the pandemic, so there should be many openings.

Writer

Previous experience or not, writing can be a great outlet for retirees. For those looking to start out writing, there are plenty of online opportunities. Some gigs may not pay at first, but the experienced gained will come in handy. Consider performing the role of editor if you have years of experience.

Musician

You might have ditched many hobbies once your career took off, but retirement is the time to pick those fun hobbies back up! If playing an instrument was a big part of your past, you can now implement it into your present and future, as well. Place an ad or look for any musicians wanted in the local area. Sure, the pay might not be great, but this is about the joy of music.

Pet Sitting

There are many ways to get more animals in your life. Thanks to numerous websites and applications, dog walking or pet sitting is just a click away. Busy adults nowadays are looking for people to walk their dog(s) during the workdays. You can even offer to watch the animals overnight.

Career Coach

The younger generation is constantly seeking career advice. That is where you could come in! Consider the idea of helping those in need of career coaching. If you’ve seen it all during your working days, then share your knowledge, including resume and interview tips. Online video platforms like Zoom and Skype can be used to do this job from home.

Career Coach

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

Retirement
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Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How To Build A Wheelchair Ramp Over Steps

How To Build A Wheelchair Ramp Over Steps

Use this step-by-step guide to safely build a wheelchair ramp for your loved one.

How To Plan Your Wheelchair Ramp

Start out with a list of tools/equipment you’ll need for this project. Gather the following things:

  • Hammer.
  • Drill.
  • Concrete anchor screws.
  • Wood glue.
  • Cutting tools like a hand saw, table saw, circular saw, or jigsaw.
  • Measuring tape and level.
  • Plywood or deck material for the ramp and landing.
  • Various lengths of screws.
  • Carriage bolts.
  • Lumber for posts, joists, and edges.

Steps To Building A Wheelchair Ramp

Before starting any project, check the ADA recommendations and requirements for wheelchair ramps. Next, carefully follow these steps to create your DIY ramp.

Step 1. Completely Clear The Area

  • DO NOT overlook this very important first step toward building a ramp.
  • Clear the area entirely.
  • Remove any debris or obstacles that could obstruct the DIY building process.
  • Ensure the ground is level at this time.
  • Pour the concrete foundation for the ramp.

Step 2. Build Your Frame

  • Construct a sturdy frame from the treated lumber you purchased for the project.
  • This frame will serve as the foundation of the ramp’s surface.
  • Make sure your frame is level and anchored securely to the ground using anchor footings.
  • Cut wood joists (2x6s are the recommended length) of your DIY ramp.
  • You must cut an angle along the bottom of the joists at the point where they will rest on the ground.
  • Secure them to the existing threshold using either brackets or sturdy screws.
  • You’ll have to construct posts in order to secure the ramp and any side railings by digging post holes or connecting the railings to the ramp for additional stability.
  • Make sure the posts are tall enough to support railings that are at least 34 inches above the surface of the ramp.
  • Always check your local codes for stability and safety regulations.
  • Use carriage bolts to attach posts to support joists and add cross-bracing, if desired.

Step 3. Install Plywood

  • Attach sturdy plywood to the frame’s top to create the surface of the ramp.
  • Ensure the plywood is fastened securely and level to provide as smooth a ride as possible.
  • Use your circular saw to cut sheets of 3/4-inch plywood for the ramp’s full length.
  • Glue and screw the sheets together for each segment of the ramp.
  • Place your plywood atop the ramp’s base and secure this using screws.

Step 4. Add Handrails

  • You may need to install handrails along the sides of the ramp depending on local building codes.
  • Top the side posts with your desired material.
  • You will also want to create a guardrail or bumper along the ramp’s bottom edge.

Step 5. Create Landings

  • Incorporate landing platforms at both the top and bottom of the ramp and at any other point where the ramp changes directions.
  • These platforms offer a resting area, which makes it easier to navigate turns on a wheelchair.
  • Cut sheets of 3/4-inch plywood into five-foot lengths to serve as landings on the top and bottom.
  • These must be at least as wide as your ramp and at least 60 inches long, allowing space for wheelchairs to completely turn around.

Step 6. Add Non-Slip Surface

  • Once the construction of the ramp has been completed, perform a thorough inspection to see if there are any loose screws or potential issues.
  • Once the ramp’s surface is even, you can add anti-slip tape or a thin rubber layer.
  • Make any necessary adjustments to ensure user safety at all times.

Wheelchair Ramp

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

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.

Assisted Living
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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
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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

Assisted Living
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