How to Make Assisted Living More Affordable

Challenges of Growing Older

When you were younger, you may have given some thought to the challenges associated with aging. However, now that you are getting older, those challenges are becoming more real every day.  As some point, you began to realize that you needed help with basic tasks such as cooking and housekeeping.

 

Assisted living may provide an answer. Depending on your circumstances, assisted living can range from having your meals delivered to your door to full-time residency in a nursing home. No matter what level of assistance you receive, you’re facing a significant expense. Even if you have abundant savings, you will probably want to save money wherever you can. Fortunately, there are ways to make assisted living more affordable without doing without essential care.

Economize on Costs

Special equipment represents a major proportion of the expenses associated with assisted living. Obtaining top quality equipment is essential; paying top dollar for the equipment you need is not. If you have limited mobility, you may rely on a wheelchair, scooter or power chair to get around. Depending on your insurance policy, you may be able to obtain a power chair or a wheelchair with little or no out-of-pocket expense. If that is not the case, don’t settle for inferior quality equipment. Instead, look for wheelchairs for sale as well as discounts on prescription and over-the-counter medications.

You can also economize on household expenses. You don’t have to deprive yourself completely, but skipping one or two fast food meals out each week can translate into significant savings. Purchase clotting and personal grooming items on sale. Begin your holiday shopping early in the year. You’ll save money and avoid the mad holiday rush.

 

Look For Savings on Essentials

As a senior, you are likely eligible for discounts on a variety of products ranging from groceries to personal grooming to meals out. If a company does not advertise senior discounts, don’t hesitate to ask. Discounts for services you use every day can really add up. Buy your favorite products such as toilet paper and canned soups in bulk when they are on sale. You will save a significant amount of money and you will have a supply sufficient to last a long time.

Communicate With Your Family

Of course you don’t want to be a burden on your family. However, there will be times when you need their help. Have an honest discussion about your needs and their schedules and work out an arrangement that works for everyone. If possible, try to distribute the responsibility for care as equally as possible among your family members so that no one person feels overly burdened.

Check Out Assisted Living Facilities and Services

If you need to move to an assisted living facility, or hire a professional caregiver, don’t settle for the first facility or service you find. Check out facilities with consumer ratings agencies and the regulatory agencies in your jurisdiction for complaints and health code violations. Check out the fine print on the contract for any facility or service you are considering before you sign or make any payments. If you have doubts, go with your instincts. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Adam Jenson works in a nursing home. He loves to help his and other nursing home residents save money by writing for senior blogs.

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