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Families who know their loved ones need a helping hand may have witnessed them struggling to perform daily tasks, prepare meals or manage the household.

When determining how best to provide the services that could improve the quality of their life, two primary options are often considered:

  1. Remaining at home and bringing in additional care
  2. Making a new home in an assisted living community

Comparing both the value and costs of each choice can guide you in making the best decision for you or a loved one.

Cost Assumptions to Avoid

To accurately evaluate and compare the costs of each choice, create a list of the services and amenities that support an enriched life. Set up a column for these expenses for both the existing home and home in an assisted living community. The total sum will provide a fair representation of how the two options compare financially.

It’s also important to be aware of and avoid making these common missteps:

  1. Assuming it is always more affordable to remain at home if there is no mortgage.
  2. Not fully accounting for all the services and amenities included in the cost of assisted living.
  3. Not correctly comparing the costs between the services and amenities if remaining at home with moving into a community.
  4. Not accounting for the value of time when family members are left to manage the care of their loved ones.

The Cost of Assisted Living Versus Remaining at Home

Actual costs for assisted living communities and home care agencies vary widely depending on the company, the level of services provided and even the geographic location. Talking to specific communities and organizations for price information will result in a more accurate cost comparison and eliminate relying on speculation.

The following are basic amenities and services that contribute to a well lived life, as well as which features you might expect to be responsible for in an assisted living community or if remaining at home:

An accessible residence

The cost of assisted living includes a private and accessible residence that can be personalized. Utilities are typically part of the monthly fee.

If remaining in the existing home, include rent or the mortgage payments in the budget, as well as the cost of insurance, property taxes, maintenance and utilities.

Assistance with daily tasks

Included in the cost of assisted living are the services of a professionally trained staff who will help your loved one with daily tasks.

If remaining in the existing home, determine the number of hours of assistance needed. Subtract the time that family members or friends can provide and calculate the remaining hours at the agency’s rate.

Healthy dining programs

The cost of assisted living includes healthy and delicious chef-prepared meals. Selections are available from menus offering variety and choices. Dietary restrictions can also be accommodated.

If your loved one remains in the existing home, calculate the costs of shopping and meal preparation. Include additional hours from a home care agency if help is needed.

Activities and social events

It is essential to physical and cognitive health to remain active – but it can be a challenge as we grow older. If home is in an assisted living community, activities and events are included in the monthly fee.

Families will need to research, plan and arrange activities for their loved ones who remain at home so they can remain engaged and involved. If transportation is needed, include those fees here.

Fitness classes and wellness programs

It is critical for your loved ones to stay in shape and meet their wellness goals. Amenities such as classes and exercises are included in the cost of assisted living.

If remaining at home, the family will need to arrange for a gym membership or classes so their loved ones can remain fit. Again, if transportation is needed, include those costs as well.

Scheduled transportation

Older adults who no longer drive often feel as if they’ve lost their independence. However, scheduled transportation is included in the cost of assisted living for medical appointments, shopping and social events.

For those who remain at home, families will need to provide rides or arrange for alternative transportation or ride sharing programs so their loved ones don’t feel left out or become isolated.

Safety and security features

Additional safety features in both the community and personal residences are included in the cost of assisted living. Residents are also reassured in knowing that someone is there if help is ever needed.

Loved ones who remain at home may require security features or a home renovation if there are safety issues. If there is increasing anxiety about living at home alone, families may want to arrange and budget for more companion visits.

Assisted Living at Seaside Hallandale Beach

We’re here to answer any questions you may have about senior living and invite your family to see how our community can encourage and promote a higher quality of life.

We encourage you to visit Seaside Hallandale Beach, which is designed to provide activities and social opportunities to help our residents in reaching their wellness goals.

Supporting our residents to age well, we believe you or your parents will enjoy the services and amenities available in our pet-friendly community:

A monthly social calendar of activities

Beautiful common spaces to socialize

Weekly housekeeping

A spacious courtyard

An outdoor pool with a covered patio

Personalized fitness and wellness programs

Scheduled transportation

Easy and safe access to the beach

If you have any questions about Seaside Hallandale Beach Senior Living, please contact us at 954-607-1000 or download our brochure.

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