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How to compare Assisted Living costs



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What is the cost of assisted living? Rates will vary between regions, states and communities. Here are some general guidelines for comparing assisted living costs. Rates can range between $3750 and $3848 per month. The assisted living rates in Columbia and Jefferson City are slightly higher than that of the national average. The cost of assisted living in St. Louis and Columbia, Missouri, is less than $3000 a month, but still under the national average.

Rates vary depending on where you live.

Assisted living costs vary from state to state, but they're generally affordable for the average senior. Additional fees can include move-in deposit, cleaning fees, or pet fees. Additional fees include move-in deposits, cleaning fees and pet fees. The cost of living tends also to rise by between 3-6 percent per year. The majority of people pay for assisted housing with personal funds. Medicaid and longterm care insurance options are available. Reverse mortgages are another popular way to finance assisted living.


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Region

The cost of assisted living varies widely by region and community. The cost of renting can be higher in certain areas than others. Also, the care level can impact the rent. In addition, the price can also differ depending on the apartment type, age of the community, and state regulations. Luxury two-bedroom apartments can cost upwards of $6,000 per month or more, and smaller studio apartments can cost as little as $3,000 per month.

Community

It can be challenging for an older adult to find a community that offers assisted living services. Community assisted living costs can vary depending on how much care your loved is requiring. Care providers will usually assess your loved one's needs and budget before quoting a rate. Community representatives may ask you questions and meet with your elderly relative to determine the level of care your loved one needs. Assisted living pricing is often the next step, and understanding the cost structure of assisted living communities can reduce the uncertainty surrounding the costs.


Care level required

The costs of an assisted living facility are determined by how much care the person needs. The costs associated with assisted living facilities will depend on the level of care required. A person who needs more assistance might only require help managing their medications or aid in walking. A nursing assistant may be enough for this person. Higher levels of care may require more support and one-on-1 attention. These residents may need additional assistance in toileting, grooming, personal hygiene, and other areas.

Asset limit

The state where the resident lives determines the asset limit for assisted-living. The Medicaid program in the state imposes an asset limitation on individuals. For example, if one spouse has $16,800 of assets and the other has $6,000., the total combined amount cannot exceed $15,000. This limit can be higher if there are multiple assets. In certain cases, an individual can still have assets over the asset limit to qualify for Medicaid.


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Tiered or a la carte pricing

Different services can be charged at different assisted living facilities. Some communities will have a minimum fee and others will charge for additional services, such as physical therapy or medication management. This can make assisted living expensive. But, some facilities offer an all inclusive pricing model which allows for budgeting. Basic services, such as transportation and housekeeping, are included in the fee. Some also charge for personal care separately, based on accumulated hours.



 



How to compare Assisted Living costs