If you’re searching for a senior community to care for a loved one, you may not be clear about what a Winston Salem NC assisted living community offers. Some people assume “assisted living community” means the same as a nursing home or retirement home. But there are some significant differences. Here are a few facts about assisted living to help you decide if this option is the best choice for your senior loved one.
1. Various Levels of Care – Not all assisted living communities are equal. Some provide lighter levels of care, such as help with bathing, grooming and dressing, while others such as Vienna Village, do all that plus assist residents with feeding or dining if necessary, and help with walking, transferring and functional mobility.
2. Each Community is Unique – When it comes to assisted living communities, one size does not fit all. That’s because each community is unique. Some have a more formal sensibility, while others offer a more home-like, down to earth atmosphere. Some centers feature towering apartment buildings, while others offer cottages or more intimate surroundings that cater to a relatively small number of residents. Even though two communities in the same city may offer the same care and services, and even look identical to one another, they may feel very different. That’s why it’s important to visit different communities to see which one you and your senior prefers best.
3. Pet Policies – Some senior living communities do allow pets, under certain weight limits and breed restrictions. Make sure you contact the communities you’re interested in to ask about their particular pet policy.
4. Assisted Living Can be Affordable – Studies have shown that assisted living is often less expensive than home health or nursing home care in the same area. The 2012 report, “A Place for Mom Cost of Senior Care Survey,” found that the national average rate for a one-bedroom apartment was $3,300 per month. Seniors who can’t afford to pay for assisted living on their own may be able to apply for financial assistance from a state agency, since 41 states offer “home and community-based waivers.” Wartime veterans and their spouses may be eligible for VA benefits to offset the cost of care as well. And more seniors are buying long-term care insurance to help plan for and finance their long-term care needs. Medicaid may also be available to supplement long-term care costs. For more information, you can visit www.eldercare.gov.