Choosing an assisted living community is an incredibly important decision for a loved one. Yet, knowing where to look for a community or what to look for can be even more challenging. With approximately 30,600 assisted living communities in the United States, options seem limitless. That’s why we wrote this guide to help you navigate the variety of options to find a setting that matches your unique needs.

What is Assisted Living?

Assisted living communities provide long-term care tailored for residents who need assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and/or transportation. These communities allow residents to maintain a level of independence while benefiting from a supportive environment when needed. At St. Ives Hometown Living, we offer this standard of care in both assisted living and memory care settings. However, assisted living communities are also ideal for residents who are largely independent but need some support to live safely. The amenities and services available in assisted living communities vary depending on the location and the specific community. At St. Ives Hometown Living of Johns Creek, we offer spaces in the community that include:

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• A Parlor
• The Keeping Room 
• Living Room
• Sunroom 
• Courtyard and Gardens
• Family Style Dining 
• Private Dining Room
• Salon
• Back Porch Rocking Chairs
• And More!

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What sets our community apart is that we offer the standard amenities and offerings of an assisted living community, plus we allow residents to maintain an at-home experience. It is our mission to provide a warm and welcoming hometown living community where our team, residents and families enjoy living and working in a space that cultivates purposeful days.

We work to ensure our community feels familiar to residents and welcoming to families as we navigate this journey together. Our community is far from the misconception that senior living is sterile and impersonal.

Affording Assisted Living

Another factor to consider when searching for an assisted living community is whether or not you can afford it. Though prices vary from state to state, assisted living rests at around an average cost of $6,000 monthly which averages to an estimated $8 per hour for 24/7 care. This is in contrast to the median cost of in-home care which is $30 per hour. At first glance, these numbers may seem overwhelming, but there are several points to consider when navigating affording care.

Cost Structures

Within assisted living communities there are a variety of cost structures. When exploring community options, it's important to understand each one's cost structure. Some communities offer an all-inclusive pricing model: a fixed monthly fee that covers rent, daily care, and other essentials. Other communities may use an a la carte model, where you pay separately for each service as needed. This allows your care team to suggest adding or removing services based on changing needs.

Be sure to ask these key questions about each community’s pricing structure:

- Is a deposit required? If so, is it refundable?

- What is included in the monthly fee?

- Which services or care levels incur additional charges?

- What are your billing policies?

To learn more about how St. Ives Hometown Living of Johns Creek structures its prices, contact us here.

Ways to Pay for Your Care

Of Americans aged 60 and older, 80% believe they do not have the financial resources to cover long-term care services. Regardless of the cost structure you find yourself working with, paying for care can still be a challenge. However, there are resources available to help alleviate these concerns and cover care costs.

Medicare Assistance

Medicare does not cover long-term care costs in assisted living communities, but it can help cover certain medical expenses that residents incur while living there, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications. 

Long-Term Care Insurance 

Another proactive approach to affording care is by establishing a long-term care insurance (LTC) policy. These policies are designed for beneficiaries to contribute over time, building a financial safety net for future care needs. Once activated, an LTC policy can provide financial assistance through either daily or monthly payouts, helping residents manage the costs of care. This option not only eases the financial burden but also provides peace of mind by ensuring access to necessary support as needs evolve.

Life Insurance Policies & Other Financial Assets

Life insurance policies with a cash value can be a valuable asset for residents transitioning into long-term care. Some of these policies can be cashed out and repurposed to help cover the cost of care. Similarly, other financial assets, such as IRAs, CDs, or even home equity can also be utilized to support care expenses. It is also important to consider any monthly income you or a loved one may be receiving. This can include Social Security, retirement pensions, or any dividends being earned.

When searching for a community, it's wise to consult with a financial advisor to explore how your current financial assets can be optimized and repurposed to meet long-term care needs, ensuring you make the most of available resources.

Federal & State Benefits

For some Americans, federal benefits are available to help cover the costs of senior housing. Certain programs are specifically tailored to assist Veterans and their spouses in affording care. Additionally, benefits can vary by state, making it worthwhile to explore local options that may offer financial support. Taking the time to research both federal and state resources can help ensure you find the right assistance to better afford the care you or your loved one needs.

While the cost of assisted living may seem daunting, there are multiple options available to help manage and offset expenses. From understanding the cost structures of different communities to exploring financial resources, there are ways to make assisted living more affordable. Taking the time to research and plan carefully will ensure you make informed decisions that best suit your financial situation and care needs.

Making the Decision 

Choosing the right assisted living community is a deeply personal and significant decision that requires careful thought and consideration. It’s important to find a community that not only meets the current care needs of your family member but also aligns with lifestyle and culture preferences. If time allows, visit multiple communities, ask detailed questions, and involve family members or trusted advisors in the decision-making process. Exploring financial resources such as long-term care insurance, federal and state benefits, and repurposing financial assets can help make the transition more affordable. With thorough research, planning, and thoughtful consideration, you can confidently choose an assisted living community that provides the care, support, and environment that best suits your loved one’s needs and ensures peace of mind for the future.

At St. Ives Hometown Living of Johns Creek, we understand the importance of finding an assisted living community that not only meets the care needs of your loved one but also feels like home. Our community offers a perfect balance of independence and support, with a wide range of services and amenities designed to enhance resident’s quality of life. What sets us apart is our commitment to delivering personalized care while maintaining the warm, familiar feel of home. If you're looking for a place where you or your loved one can enjoy excellent care in a home-like setting, St. Ives Hometown Living of Johns Creek is here to meet your needs and help your loved ones belong, flourish and thrive. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a visit to experience our community firsthand.