Are you a Florida senior who may have reached the point where it may no longer be safe or appropriate to live at home without assistance? In fact, are you wondering if you should be thinking about moving into an assisted living facility? What exactly is an assisted living facility and what might it do for you?
To begin, an assisted living facility is a residential setting. Assisted living should not be confused with a skilled nursing home which is more of a clinical setting because people typically require constant medical care and attention. Do you find that you are having difficulties with mobility, getting around in your home safely? Do you have to rely on others to do your grocery shopping? Are you often too tired to prepare your meals? Do you forget to take your medicines? Are you lonely or concerned about your safety? All of these are questions you should ask yourself as you contemplate moving from your home and into assisted living.
In an assisted living facility there is a certain amount of independence given. Adults in an assisted living facility may be able to live a bit more independently and may be given the opportunity to cook their own meals and participate in a wide range of social and recreational activities. However, you need to know that meals are provided, as well as laundry, medication assistance, and housekeeping, to name a few.
Finally, you should start investigating how you could pay for assisted living as soon as possible. We highly recommend meeting with a Florida elder law attorney who will be able to analyze your financial circumstances and medical needs and help you come up with a plan to pay for whatever care option is right for you. You need to know that there is a difference in the cost and insurance coverage for assisted living facilities as opposed to nursing homes. According to the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living, the cost of a skilled nursing home is nearly double the cost of an assisted living facility and can amount to over $100,000.00 annually for a private room. Be aware that Medicare will not pay for assisted living costs and full Medicaid benefits might not be available.
Do you have questions? Please contact our law practice to learn more. Planning for the future is critical to ensure that your goals for the end of life are achieved. We know this article may raise more questions that it answers. We do telephone, computer, and face-to-face appointments. Our face-to-face appointments are held outside in the open air (frequently selected by clients for document signing) and inside our office conference room. We follow all CDC guidelines. Our office procedures adhere to COVID-19 safety protocols and are designed and enhanced by medical review and air quality engineering.