Frequently Asked Questions
How do we get paid?
We will always remain objective and focus our referrals on your needs, regardless of compensation.
When is it time to start looking for a senior living community?
Our services are complimentary. We are compensated by the home care companies and communities. This means this does not affect the rate you pay.
Far too often, people make the move to a senior living community and wish they would have made the decision much sooner. It is easier to make the choice to move while you still have a sense of independence and are able to make your own decisions about downsizing and lifestyle choices. In addition to senior living communities having a wide variety of opportunities to get involved and meet new people, living at a comprehensive community will allow you to age in place and lessen the burden of care on your family.
What is the difference between a rental program and entrance fee/buy-in program?
Under a rental agreement, the resident typically pays a modest one-time Admission or Community Fee. They execute a rental agreement that may be month-to-month or for a specified term. Rent is paid monthly and should the resident desire to leave for any reason, they generally are required to give 30 days notice and relieved of any and all financial commitments. It is always recommended to have an attorney review all residency agreements.
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Under the Buy-In (Entrance Fee) arrangement the resident pays a significant fee for the right to live in the Community. It is not uncommon for the deposit to be several hundred thousand dollars. The amount also varies depending upon the apartment size selected. The Buy-In affords the senior the right to live within the Community during their lifetime and it may afford them priority access to higher levels of care within the Community, should such services exist. In addition to the Entry Fee Deposit, the resident will be charged monthly fees that, in most cases, are similar in amount to those charged in Monthly Rental Communities.
What is Life Care?
Life Care is a plan that gives you the security of knowing you’ll never need to move again should your health care needs change. It’s a financial advantage as well. The concept was pioneered by Life Care Services, LLC, in the 1960s. Today, Life Care is among the most popular contract options in senior care and retirement living. Residents pay a one-time entrance fee and monthly service fees, and are then given priority access to 24/7 skilled nursing care with virtually no additional expenses. Life Care provides peace of mind and significantly reduces worry about the affordability and availability of long-term care services such as assisted living or memory care in the future. With the lifetime security of Life Care, you’ll know just where to go and who will take care of you.
What is the difference between assisted living and a nursing home?
In general, a nursing home provides specialized medical and personal care in a clinical setting, whereas assisted living provides personal care and support in a community social setting. Both offer help with activities of daily living – bathing, grooming, incontinence and medication reminders – but nursing home residents have more complex health conditions that require intensive medical care and monitoring.
Understand the Real Cost of Care
When planning for retirement, it helps to have realistic expectations about what different living arrangements might cost. Figures can vary by region and services offered, but they highlight the importance of building a plan that accounts for both current lifestyle preferences and potential future care needs. Thinking ahead now can help reduce decision-making stress down the road.
Does Medicare pay for assisted living?
Independent living and assisted living are typically not covered under these government programs; however, Medicare may pay for some covered care services that can be helpful. Because Medicare and Medicaid are federal programs, you can find more information about your coverage options at medicare.gov or medicaid.gov.