Senior Living FAQ: Your Guide to a Fulfilling Retirement

Embarking on the next chapter in your life can be an exciting time filled with possibilities. As you explore options related to senior living and specifically senior living communities, you likely have many questions. This guide will address the most common senior living FAQs, helping you make informed decisions for a vibrant and comfortable lifestyle. 

What is senior living?

Senior living encompasses a wide array of housing options and services tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of older adults. These communities can encompass independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care, catering to various levels of assistance and support. They tend to be large campuses with apartments, cottage or villa homes, and plenty of amenities to keep residents happy and engaged.

How much does senior living cost?

The cost of senior living varies significantly based on the type of community, location, size of the residence, and the level of care required. It's essential to consider your budget and explore different options to find the best fit for your financial situation.

Some communities require an entrance fee in addition to a monthly fee, while others only require a monthly fee. The ones necessitating an entrance fee are typically Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) which offer health services on campus. In what’s known as a “Type A” life care contract, the entrance fee is to help pre-pay for many future long-term healthcare needs. In this way, should you ever need a higher level of care such as assisted living, memory care of skilled care, it is already included within your monthly fee. For those communities that do not offer this, advanced health services will be charged at the current market rate. 

What are the most common types of senior living options?

The most common types of senior living include: 

• Independent living: Designed for active, independent seniors who desire a maintenance-free lifestyle, social engagement, and access to amenities. 
• Assisted living: Offers personal care services such as memory care, medication management, bathing, dressing, and assistance with daily activities. 
• Skilled nursing care: Provides 24-hour medical care and supervision for individuals with complex health needs.

How do you decide what is the most appropriate senior living situation?

To determine the best senior living option for a certain situation, consider yours or your loved one’s current health needs, preferences for social interaction, desired amenities, and budget. It's helpful to tour different communities, talk to residents, and consult with a senior living advisor to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

If you or your loved one can still live entirely independently, an independent living community is likely the right choice. If you or your loved one need assistance with daily living, an independent living community would likely not be appropriate.

What is the difference between a rental community and a buy-in community?

Rental communities require a monthly fee and do not typically lock you into any long-term contracts. On the other hand, “buy-in communities,” often referred to as Type A life care communities, involve an upfront entrance fee in addition to the monthly fees, which may make the monthly fees lower, or may pre-pay for any future health needs. Each has its own advantages, so consider your financial goals and preferences before making a decision.

How do you know it's time for a retirement community?

If you find maintaining your home overwhelming or increasingly costly, desire more social engagement, require assistance with daily activities, or simply want a more resort-like lifestyle where there is always something to do and your home is protected by security, it may be time to explore senior living options.

My parents are fairly independent right now, but what happens if their needs change?

Senior living communities called CCRCs offer a continuum of care, allowing residents to transition seamlessly to higher levels of care as their needs evolve. This ensures they receive the necessary support while remaining in a familiar environment. This may be the ideal situation for someone who can live independently now but is likely to require health services later.

Who can help me explore the financial options available for senior living?

A financial advisor specializing in senior living can help you assess your financial resources and explore various payment options, such as long-term care insurance or Veterans benefits.

What steps do communities take for resident safety?

Many communities prioritize resident safety through 24/7 security personnel, emergency response systems, well-lit common areas, secure building access, regular safety drills, and in-home amenities like handrails in bathrooms.

Who is there in case of emergencies?

Trained staff members are available around the clock to respond to emergencies. Additionally, many communities have partnerships with local emergency services for prompt assistance.

Is transportation available?

Yes, most senior living communities offer scheduled transportation for medical appointments, shopping trips, and social outings.

How is the food?

Food is often a selling point of good senior living communities. Acts Retirement-Life Communities takes pride in providing delicious and nutritious meals prepared by talented chefs. Many communities offer diverse dining options, including casual cafes, formal dining rooms, and private dining for special occasions.

When can we tour the community?

You can schedule a tour of an Acts community anytime by visiting the campus page and submitting a very brief form.

Let Acts be your trusted partner in this exciting journey. Contact us today for more answers to frequently asked questions about senior living, or to learn more about our exceptional senior living options for a fulfilling retirement lifestyle.