When considering the cost of long-term care and senior living, one assumption families often make is that remaining at home is always more affordable. However, without considering all the requirements for leading an enriched life, you may not have an accurate picture or comparison.
There are many variables when calculating the costs of long-term care. Price ranges can vary depending on the organization and community, level of care services needed, and even the geographic location.
Rather than using inaccurate estimates or speculation, it’s more effective to talk directly to the appropriate source for the latest numbers. Speaking with local senior living communities and home care agencies can help you establish the correct costs.
What Is Included in the Cost of Long-Term Care
To reach a fair and accurate comparison, try to consider the cost of all the elements needed to support living a high-quality life.
The following are common necessities for aging well:
- An accessible residence
- Assistance when needed
- Healthy dining
- Activities and social events
- Fitness opportunities
- Scheduled transportation
- Safety and security features
Comparing the Cost of Long-Term Care – at Home Versus Senior Living
To make an accurate consideration, compare the costs of the features above at both a senior living community and at home:
1. Accessible residence
Existing home: Consider any mortgage or rental payment. If the home is paid for, you’ll still need to include related costs such as insurance, property taxes, maintenance, repairs and utilities. If renovations are needed, add those costs here.
Long-term care: Included in your fee is an accessible home designed to promote aging in place and comfort. These move-in ready homes can be personalized to make your own.
2. Assistance when needed
Existing home: Depending on whether you have family or friends that can provide the personal care needed, you may want to include fees for a home care agency for services.
Long-term care: Assistance with daily tasks such as bathing safely, grooming or managing medications is included.
3. Healthy dining
Existing home: If it has become more difficult to plan, shop and prepare healthy meals, you may need to hire the services from a home care agency or arrange for a food service delivery program.
Long-term care: Healthy chef-prepared and delicious meals are included in the costs. With several menu selections, some communities also offer a choice of venues.
4. Activities and social events
Existing home: Finding and arranging activities and social interactions can become more difficult as we grow older. You may need to budget for the costs of social events and transportation if you or your loved one is no longer driving.
Long-term care: Included in the fee is a monthly calendar of activities and social events located on-site – or provided with transportation if off-site. With a wide variety of choices, you’ll find something of interest.
5. Fitness opportunities
Existing home: Do you have a gym membership, subscription service, or a trainer? Do you need to purchase any equipment for your home to support your fitness goals? Include these costs and any transportation fees if needed.
Long-term care: Another advantage of community life and included in the fee is the fitness center or exercise programs that you’ll find just steps away from your door. With instruction and tailored classes, it’s easy to keep your wellness goals.
6. Scheduled transportation
Existing home: If no longer driving, the older adult often has to rely on family or friends for rides. If you or your loved one will need to use ride sharing programs or other mass transportation options, include those costs here.
Long-term care: Scheduled transportation is provided by the community and included in the fee so you or a loved one don’t need to worry about missing out if driving is no longer an option.
7. Safety and security features
Existing home: If you or a loved one no longer feels safe at home, it might be necessary to budget for repairs or security systems. Include any equipment costs and monthly service fees.
Long-term care: Safety features are provided for both the personal residences and the community. It’s also greatly reassuring to both the residents and their families to know help is always available if needed.
Retirement living in Waukegan, Illinois
Galloway Senior Living, locally owned and operated, provides luxury and quality care for families in our community.
Assisted Living at Galloway Senior Living offers beautiful and contemporary private residences that range from alcove studios to two-bedrooms and include high-end stainless-steel appliances, maple hardwood cabinets, cultured marble countertops and thoughtfully curated décor and colors.
Our Memory Care community offers a family kitchen, dining room, walking garden, and lounge.
Our services include:
- 24-hour certified nursing assistants, on-staff licensed nurses, medication management, and on-site physician visits
- COVID-19 safety protocols
- Assistance with daily tasks
- Readily available safe transportation
- A fall-reduction program
- In-unit emergency response systems including an electronic monitoring system for exit doors
- On-site entertainment and activities personalized to reflect the residents’ preferences
- Housekeeping and linen services including personal laundry
- Amenities you’ll find at Galloway Senior Living include:
- Country Café and Convenience Store
- Salon and Spa
- Theater with 85” television
- Activity and Craft Center
- Game Room
- Library and Business Center
- Fitness Center
If you or your family is considering retirement living in Wadsworth, Illinois, we hope you will visit our community at Galloway Senior Living. We are a trusted resource and are here to answer any questions. We also invite you to download our complimentary information, A Family Guide to Funding Senior Care & Housing.
