Written by Brian B

Does Medicare Pay For Wheelchairs?

Does-Medicare-Cover-Wheelchairs

Medicare.gov states that Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) will cover power-operated vehicles, which includes scooters and manual wheelchairs, when prescribed for at-home use by a doctor. However, you must meet face-to-face with a doctor or other treating provider and receive a prescription before Medicare will pay for the wheelchair.

Original Medicare Costs

If your supplier accepts the assignment, you will likely be responsible for paying 20% of the Medicare-Approved Amount. The Part B deductible applies here, as Medicare will pay for different types of durable medical equipment (DME) in some different ways.

For example, buying or renting the equipment will undoubtedly impact how much coverage will be provided by Medicare. Medicare only covers medical equipment if both your doctor and medical supplier are currently enrolled in Medicare. Doctors and suppliers must always meet strict standards in order to stay enrolled in this program. No coverage will be provided if neither are currently enrolled.

Always make sure to know ahead of time if your doctor and supplier are enrolled in Medicare. Participating suppliers must meet assignment, which means they can only charge a patient for coinsurance and the Part B deductible for the exact amount that’s been approved by Medicare. This essentially means there is no limit on what suppliers are able to charge a patient when they are not enrolled in Medicare.

Medicare Approvals And Denials

In September of 2018, it was ruled that all patients must receive “prior authorization” for different kinds of power wheelchairs. Currently, there are 40 types of wheelchairs that require this approval – check out the full list right here. Prior authorization is needed before Medicare will approve covering the cost of the wheelchair.

DME suppliers need to do the following before receiving approval:

  • Request prior authorization ahead of time.
  • Submit said request and other required documentation to Medicare.

The patient generally does not have to do anything at this point of the process. The supplier is responsible for all the work detailed above. The specific DME supplier will need to send the request for authorization, including all documentation to Medicare on the patient’s behalf. Medicare will then review the request to ensure the patient is eligible for coverage.

Ultimately, coverage could be denied due to the following reasons:

  • Medicare says that you do not need a power wheelchair.
  • Medicare did not receive sufficient documentation.

Average Wheelchair Costs

Manual, transport, and electric are the three main types of wheelchairs. Costs for these wheelchairs can range all the way from $90-$9,000, depending on the type. Prices vary based on model, with the transport being the least expensive version.

Here are some average costs associated with wheelchairs today:

  • Average Transport Wheelchair Cost: $955.
  • Average Manual Wheelchair Cost: $1,400.
  • Average Electric Wheelchair Cost: $3,750.

*Please note these are cost estimates according to Braunability

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Written by Brian B

Assisted Living Vs Skilled Nursing

Assisted Living Vs Skilled Nursing

Many people may be wondering what the differences are between skilled nursing and assisted living. Let’s take a closer look at these senior care levels below.

What Is Assisted Living?

Many see assisted living as being the best of both worlds. A resident is allowed to have as much independence as they want while also knowing that personal support and care services are there if they are needed. Assisted living communities have been designed in order to provide a person with assistance with basic daily living activities like dressing, bathing, grooming and much more.

There are some states that let assisted living provide medication reminders or assistance. These communities are much different from a nursing home because they do not provide any complex medical services.

These communities range from a single residence to be a single care level in a continuing care retirement community. The whole physical environment of assisted living is quite appealing to both the families and potential residents. These communities are able to offer a home like atmosphere with apartments that include either a one bedroom or studio model. The kitchenettes will normally have a microwave and small refrigerator.

Assisted Living Benefits

Below are a few of the many benefits associated with assisted living communities.

Lower Stress Levels For Your Loved One

Assisted living helps lover stress levels in your loved one and improves the quality of life for all involved. Seniors can enjoy their independence while receiving the care and help they require while the loved ones families no longer have concerns about fulfilling their loved one’s needs. One benefit to assisted living surroundings is that they permit seniors who may have physical issues or the early onset of Alzheimer’s or dementia to live a moderately independent way of life. The facility will usually have on-site medical care, but it will not be there 24/7. An assisted living facility will offer a care level that is suitable for seniors who do not need full-time care, but may require assistance with their meds, eating or food preparation, and other day to day activities.

Contentment And Your Loved Ones Protection

Members of the family will no longer will be concerned about their loved one getting used, falling down, getting lost because of wandering, not eating a healthy diet or taking the incorrect medication. The living facility will take every means they have to ensure your loved ones are continually safe and protected.

The Social Life Of Your Loved One

It’s not that surprising for seniors to start to become lonely as they get up in age. Loneliness in seniors may lead to a lot of complications, ranging from poor health or bouts of depression, problems being active and more. In the assisted living facility, the residents belong to a part of a supportive, loving, and caring community. Your loved one will surrounded by seniors their own age and have numerous opportunities to socialize and take joy in the company of other seniors.

Increased Activity For Your Loved One

It’s very important that we stay active as we age. Assisted living seniors are offered a bunch of indoor activities as well as outdoor activities from strolling in the courtyard, to gardening, or picnics. Some assisted living communities will offer their residents transportation, so they can go on excursions, go to the corner market or visit the doctor’s office.

Healthier Diet

Greatly cooked meals and nutrition are essential for today’s seniors. Award-winning chefs make appetizing meals that also fulfills your loved ones dietary needs and individual preferences of each of their seniors.

Assistance In Day-to-Day Duties

It’s very essential for seniors to have their independence, but also have the assistance they need. Assisted living communities provide their residents with help, only when needed, with daily living undertakings, such as dressing, preparing meals and eating or laundry duties.

What Is Skilled Nursing?

Skilled nursing facilities come with 24/7 nursing care for individuals who require specialized medical care or daily therapy sessions. While sometimes temporary, a skilled nursing community can be compared to a long-term stay at the hospital.

Skilled nursing care will often be provided for short-term stays that follow hospitalizations, surgery, injury, or other health-related issues. During temporary stays, the care will be focused on providing rehabilitative services to help individuals return to their previously independent lifestyles.

For some individuals, a skilled nursing community can become their long-term home. These residents will receive the necessary assistance and medical care they need. This medically-intensive care will be provided by professionally licensed individuals. Typically, residents have complex medical situations with many needs like respiratory therapy or wound care.

Differences Between Assisted Living And Skilled Nursing

Memory care or assisted living communities can feature specialized care for people suffering from Dementia or Alzheimer’s. Patients living at these facilities will have structured activities throughout the day to keep them on a routine, which often lessens stress levels. These activities will focus on cognitive stimulation, targeting memory difficulties.

When it is no longer possible for an individual to live at home safely, it’s important to consider the differences between these living situations. Here is a quick look at some comparisons between assisted living and skilled nursing arrangements:

Assisted Living Communities Skilled Nursing Communities 
Living accommodations can be compared to apartments, being either private or semiprivate. Living accommodations more closely resemble a hospital-like situation.
Housekeeping services are typically included at no extra cost.  Housekeeping and laundry services will be provided in these communities.
Caregivers are available around the clock or other care can be arranged through a third party. Caregivers are available around the clock or other care can be arranged through a third party.
Medical personnel will either be on-site or on call.  Physicians are on-site or on call 24/7.
Three meals are served per day or can be prepared by a resident in their own apartment.  Three meals are served per day in a communal dining area.
A schedule of daily activities will be provided.  Less strenuous activities are provided daily.
Transportation to and from doctor’s appointments and errands are provided. Typically, transportation is provided to and from doctor’s appointments.
Private pay is generally responsible for the majority of costs. Medicare and Medicaid may be covered. Medical services will be covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most long-term insurance policies.

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Life Expectancy After Fall In Elderly
Written by Brian B

Life Expectancy After Fall In Elderly

More than 1 in 4 senior citizens fall each year, sometimes resulting in serious injuries. In the year 2018 alone, seniors reported almost 36 million falls, with 8.4 million resulting in injuries. Sadly, over 32,000 seniors pass away every year due to falling-related injuries.

At-home falls are one of leading causes of injury among senior citizens. At a certain point, it will be ideal to make some safety updates to your home. Many dangers can exist in the home like basement stairs, porch steps, and other obstacles that make it hard to navigate.

Aging adults who have lost a bit of balance may be at a higher risk of tripping and falling at home.

How Do Falls Cause Death In The Elderly?

Things like advanced age, pre-existing medical conditions, and frailty can contribute to long recovery processes after a fall. Ground-level falls, which seem quite innocent, can actually cause serious injuries for the elderly. One study concluded that older adults are three times more likely to die after a low-level fall than those individuals under the age of 70.

Another recent study collected by the CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control concluded that nearly half of fall-related deaths among people aged 65 and above involved an injury to the head. Even with less severe injuries that do not involve the head, prognosis and treatment is still quite difficult with the elderly.

Hospitalizations always come with some risks. Even when an elderly adult survives a fall and receives medical care, longer recovery time at the hospital could result in discharge to a long-term care facility. Longer hospital stays can increase vulnerability to diseases like pneumonia, for example.

Consequences Of Elderly Falls

The seriousness of a fall will depend on the nature of the accident. For instance, the way an individual falls could be the difference between a broken hip or traumatic brain injury (TBI). The most common fall-related injuries are soft tissue injuries and fractured bones.

Unfortunately, even minor trauma can lead to a hospitalization for seniors. It’s possible seniors may never regain their level of functionality after the fall.

Retirement In Youngtown, Arizona

There isn’t a more appropriately named setting for this lively community than Youngtown! Monthly rent at Ventana Winds includes three well balanced meals plus snacks, 24-hour staff, and a daily tidying of your apartment. The offerings don’t end there! Personal laundry is done weekly, transportation is provided for appointments or shopping, a 24/7 emergency call system is in place, as well as a full slate of exciting activities. Check out all of Ventana Winds’ offerings today!

Does Medicare Pay For Assisted Living
Written by Brian B

How Much Does Medicare Pay For Assisted Living Facility?

What financing options do Medicare, Medicaid, and others provide for assisted living residents? Let’s take a look below.

What Is Assisted Living?

An assisted living facility is one in which its residents largely lead their lives independently. They do get a little assistance for needs that differ from person to person, possibly with mobility, meal planning, transportation, hygiene or medication. You might be ready for assisted living if it is becoming hard or dangerous for you to go up and down the stairs at home or if driving is starting to get risky.

Assisted living can be in a residential-type neighborhood or large building. Some facilities allow pets and can also consist of laundry as part of the rent or for an extra fee.

Assisted Living Coverage Options

Cost is always one of the biggest factors when it comes to choosing the right assisted living community for your loved one. Prices for assisted living care will depend on floorplans, services, amenities, accommodations, and location. As you carefully select the type of care you’d prefer, you must know how the expenses will be covered if Medicare helps with any of the costs.

Medicare Coverage For Assisted Living

Typically, Medicare will not extend coverage for long-term or assisted living care. There are certain situations where Medicare covers qualified healthcare costs at these communities. Medicare is generally used to cover the costs of home healthcare that’s provided by skilled nursing facilities.

Medicaid For Assisted Living

In the state of Arizona, the Arizona Long Term Care System pays for care-related services for state residents living in assisted living communities. The System, however, will not pay for room and board. Assisted living residents will be responsible for different basic living costs depending on their coverage and location.

Other Financing Options For Assisted Living

There are some assisted living communities in Arizona that offer private funding options for residents. If an individual happens to have long-term care insurance, this will cover a portion of the costs associated with assisted living.

In most cases, assisted living residents pay for care out-of-pocket. They fund these services by selling assets like homes or other valuable properties. There is a wide variety of resources and ways that seniors pay for assisted living care.

How To Pay For Assisted Living

Assisted living is paid using private funds but there are some exceptions. There may be insurance policies that will cover assisted living. Check the insurance policy to see if it will be covered.

If the resident is a military veteran or is the veteran’s spouse, they may qualify for veteran’s benefits which will pay for the community. In some states, Medicaid waivers and funds can be used to help cover assisted living.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

More Articles About Senior Living

Written by Brian B

Why Do Dementia Patients Sleep So Much?

Why Do Dementia Patients Sleep So Much

Oversleeping is quite common for individuals suffering from dementia. This is a direct result of brain damage that occurs during the late stages of this disease.

Why Do People With Dementia Sleep So Much?

Oversleeping is a quite common symptom found in the later stages of dementia. Healthy sleeping patterns are important for everyone, so try to keep track of how often your loved one may be sleeping.

As dementia progresses, brain damage can become excessive and undoubtedly take a toll on one’s health. Individuals with dementia will feel weak and frail as time goes on. Executive function will change in the frontal lobe of the brain. The result may appear to be a lack of motivation or overall sluggishness. Easy tasks, such as talking or standing up, can feel exhausting for someone with dementia.

Individuals with dementia may also experience some dramatic changes in their sleep-wake cycle or circadian rhythm. This will ultimately work against sleep quality. Your brain’s internal clock will always notify you when to be alert and when to sleep. Individuals with dementia often have impaired brain cells when it comes to sleep cycles. This may result in sleeping excessively during day hours but less at night.

What Are The Stages Of Dementia?

Dementia is broken down into seven stages, including the following symptoms:

Stage 1 Symptoms:

  • There will be no noticeable symptoms during the earliest stage of dementia.

Stage 2 Symptoms:

  • Some difficulty finding the right words.
  • Normal functioning.
  • Ability to overcome memory issues.

Stage 3 Symptoms:

  • Forgetfulness.
  • Difficulty paying attention.
  • Trouble finding words and/or names.
  • Money management issues.
  • Problems at the workplace.

Stage 4 Symptoms:

  • Making mistakes while driving.
  • Problem solving issues.
  • Problems with routine tasks.
  • More money management problems.
  • Forgetting familiar names/items.
  • Forgetting where things have been placed.

Stage 5 Symptoms:

  • Mood swings.
  • Personality changes.
  • Gaps in memory.
  • Assistance needed when eating and using the bathroom.
  • Bladder problems.

Stage 6 Symptoms:

  • Changing eating habits.
  • Getting lost and confused.
  • Delusions.
  • Lack of awareness.
  • Bladder problems increasing.
  • Strong personality changes and mood swings.
  • Trouble speaking.

Stage 7 Symptoms:

  • No ability to eat, swallow or speak.
  • Loss of muscle control.
  • Constantly disoriented.
  • Loss of bowel and bladder control.
  • Cannot use bathroom without assistance.

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Written by Brian B

How Often Should You Visit A Parent In Assisted Living?

How Often Should You Visit A Parent In Assisted Living

It’s important to visit your parent in assisted living as often as you can. Your presence will offer reassurance as your parent adjusts to a new living situation. Let’s take a look at how you can determine when to visit, as well as a few schedule examples.

How To Determine How Often To Visit A Parent In Assisted Living

The majority of assisted living communities welcome friends and family to visit residents as often as they wish. Consider these few factors when determining how often you should visit your parent.

Your Parent’s Preferences

While you may want to visit your parent each and every day, they may relish their independence at this time. Talk to your parent to see exactly how often he or she would like you to visit.

Adjustment Period

It’s no secret that your parent will go through some sort of adjustment period when first moving into an assisted living community. It may take some time to meet new people and settle into a new routine. Visiting more frequently at this time can help your parent adjust to the new living situation.

Overall Health

Frequent visits can be beneficial when your parent is experiencing a health concern or medical condition. Each visit will allow you to observe any changes in their health or behavior.

Coordinated Schedules

It’s recommended to coordinate your schedules when there are multiple family members that wish to visit. This way your parent can have constant support without feeling overwhelmed when the whole family shows up together.

Activities And Events

Always try to coordinate visits on special occasions like birthdays and holidays. Most assisted living communities will host special events and activities for all to participate.

Suggested Visiting Schedules

Of course, there is no universal schedule for visiting a parent in assisted living care. Below are simply a few schedule suggestions.

Weekly Visits

Weekly visits can offer a consistent and reassuring presence for your parent. This visiting schedule is best for keeping up on any mental or physical concerns.

Bi-Weekly Or Monthly Visits

If weekly visits are not possible for you, this sort of schedule can still offer a stable presence.

Special Occasions

Always try to be there for the meaningful days like birthdays and anniversaries.

When Should You Avoid Visiting A Parent In Assisted Living?

While regular visits are undoubtedly beneficial, visiting during certain times may not work well with your parent’s well-being. For instance, seniors with mild cognitive impairments could become distressed when visited. If this is the case, you may want to restrict the frequency of your visits.

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Best Low Stress Jobs After Retirement
Written by Brian B

Low Stress Jobs For Retirees

Are you looking for some work after retirement, yet want to keep the stress to a minimum? Here are a few of the best low stress jobs after retirement.

Tour Guide

There may not be a more relaxing and enjoyable job after retiring than guiding tours. With this role, you’ll likely be interacting with fun and excited tourists. Share your knowledge of the area or certain landmarks as a paid tour guide. A great benefit of this job is the flexible hours since most tours will run at nights or on the weekends.

Data Entry

Perhaps working as a tour guide doesn’t appeal to you since you’ll have to leave the home and interact with lots of people. If you’re instead interested in working from home, then a data entry position could be a perfect fit. Data entry appeals to many because you won’t have to deal with customers all day, unlike customer service representatives. All you might need for this position is a laptop and basic computer skills.

Customer Service Representative

Many people do miss the social interaction that was created in the workplace. For these type of retirees, customer service roles are ideal. In these positions, you will either speak with customers on the phone or interact with them online. A large majority of these positions went remote during the pandemic, so there should be many openings.

Writer

Previous experience or not, writing can be a great outlet for retirees. For those looking to start out writing, there are plenty of online opportunities. Some gigs may not pay at first, but the experienced gained will come in handy. Consider performing the role of editor if you have years of experience.

Musician

You might have ditched many hobbies once your career took off, but retirement is the time to pick those fun hobbies back up! If playing an instrument was a big part of your past, you can now implement it into your present and future, as well. Place an ad or look for any musicians wanted in the local area. Sure, the pay might not be great, but this is about the joy of music.

Pet Sitting

There are many ways to get more animals in your life. Thanks to numerous websites and applications, dog walking or pet sitting is just a click away. Busy adults nowadays are looking for people to walk their dog(s) during the workdays. You can even offer to watch the animals overnight.

Career Coach

The younger generation is constantly seeking career advice. That is where you could come in! Consider the idea of helping those in need of career coaching. If you’ve seen it all during your working days, then share your knowledge, including resume and interview tips. Online video platforms like Zoom and Skype can be used to do this job from home.

Career Coach

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

More Articles About Senior Living

Written by Brian B

How To Build A Wheelchair Ramp Over Steps

How To Build A Wheelchair Ramp Over Steps

Use this step-by-step guide to safely build a wheelchair ramp for your loved one.

How To Plan Your Wheelchair Ramp

Start out with a list of tools/equipment you’ll need for this project. Gather the following things:

  • Hammer.
  • Drill.
  • Concrete anchor screws.
  • Wood glue.
  • Cutting tools like a hand saw, table saw, circular saw, or jigsaw.
  • Measuring tape and level.
  • Plywood or deck material for the ramp and landing.
  • Various lengths of screws.
  • Carriage bolts.
  • Lumber for posts, joists, and edges.

Steps To Building A Wheelchair Ramp

Before starting any project, check the ADA recommendations and requirements for wheelchair ramps. Next, carefully follow these steps to create your DIY ramp.

Step 1. Completely Clear The Area

  • DO NOT overlook this very important first step toward building a ramp.
  • Clear the area entirely.
  • Remove any debris or obstacles that could obstruct the DIY building process.
  • Ensure the ground is level at this time.
  • Pour the concrete foundation for the ramp.

Step 2. Build Your Frame

  • Construct a sturdy frame from the treated lumber you purchased for the project.
  • This frame will serve as the foundation of the ramp’s surface.
  • Make sure your frame is level and anchored securely to the ground using anchor footings.
  • Cut wood joists (2x6s are the recommended length) of your DIY ramp.
  • You must cut an angle along the bottom of the joists at the point where they will rest on the ground.
  • Secure them to the existing threshold using either brackets or sturdy screws.
  • You’ll have to construct posts in order to secure the ramp and any side railings by digging post holes or connecting the railings to the ramp for additional stability.
  • Make sure the posts are tall enough to support railings that are at least 34 inches above the surface of the ramp.
  • Always check your local codes for stability and safety regulations.
  • Use carriage bolts to attach posts to support joists and add cross-bracing, if desired.

Step 3. Install Plywood

  • Attach sturdy plywood to the frame’s top to create the surface of the ramp.
  • Ensure the plywood is fastened securely and level to provide as smooth a ride as possible.
  • Use your circular saw to cut sheets of 3/4-inch plywood for the ramp’s full length.
  • Glue and screw the sheets together for each segment of the ramp.
  • Place your plywood atop the ramp’s base and secure this using screws.

Step 4. Add Handrails

  • You may need to install handrails along the sides of the ramp depending on local building codes.
  • Top the side posts with your desired material.
  • You will also want to create a guardrail or bumper along the ramp’s bottom edge.

Step 5. Create Landings

  • Incorporate landing platforms at both the top and bottom of the ramp and at any other point where the ramp changes directions.
  • These platforms offer a resting area, which makes it easier to navigate turns on a wheelchair.
  • Cut sheets of 3/4-inch plywood into five-foot lengths to serve as landings on the top and bottom.
  • These must be at least as wide as your ramp and at least 60 inches long, allowing space for wheelchairs to completely turn around.

Step 6. Add Non-Slip Surface

  • Once the construction of the ramp has been completed, perform a thorough inspection to see if there are any loose screws or potential issues.
  • Once the ramp’s surface is even, you can add anti-slip tape or a thin rubber layer.
  • Make any necessary adjustments to ensure user safety at all times.

Wheelchair Ramp

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Written by Brian B

Is Memory Care Considered Skilled Nursing?

Is Memory Care Considered Skilled Nursing

Many people may be wondering what the differences are between skilled nursing and memory care. Let’s take a closer look at this senior care level below.

Is Memory Care Regarded As Skilled Nursing?

Yes, memory care is considered skilled nursing and it can also be administered by a personal care provider. The primary goal of skilled nursing services is to rehabilitate a patient’s specific health-related needs. Memory care services are designed to care for patients suffering from Dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Differences Between Memory Care And Skilled Nursing

Memory care communities feature specialized care for people suffering from Dementia or Alzheimer’s. Patients living at these facilities will have structured activities throughout the day to keep them on a routine, which often lessens stress levels. These activities will focus on cognitive stimulation, targeting memory difficulties.

Memory care offers more patient supervision than most other care levels. This is due to the fact that most people with memory-related issues have a tendency to wander. Memory care facilities are safer because doors and/or elevators are usually locked or armed with alarms. Outdoor recreation areas are typically locked and gated to keep all patients safe and accounted for.

What Level Of Care Is Memory Care?

In general, memory care is a higher level of care, but it will depend on the patient’s specific needs. These needs will be based on such things as the stage of Dementia or Alzheimer’s, if applicable. This level of care can be provided in-home or at a memory care community.

How Much Does Memory Care Cost?

The average costs for memory care ranges from $1,595 – $9,715+ a month. Prices shift depending on location, services, and elderly care needs. While many services such as meals, medication handling, and group activities will be included, others will not. I.e., residents could have access to clothe washing services, lunch trips, or beauty amenities, like haircuts or pedicures, but those could cost extra.

Why Choose Memory Care For Your Loved One

Dementia and Alzheimer’s are very familiar types of memory loss circumstances that will be included in memory care. This is a dedicated care that will go through a variety of services that will depend on the seriousness of the symptoms, like 24-hour emergency call service.

Memory care will go further than what is typically offered in assisted living. Housekeeping, the preparation of food, and clothes washing services are generally provided, but the level of needed assistance with daily activities is increased. There also may be times when daily activities are designed specifically for a person that will allow them to reconnect with their interests or old hobbies.

As the communities can recognize the care challenges for elderly people who have dementia or Alzheimer’s, they may just provide memory care or, for continuing care communities may provide a neighborhood strictly for memory care. More often than not, it is these communities that will have fixed design elements that will lower the stress for those who have dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Memory Care Facilities Near Me

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Written by Brian B

When Should Seniors Sell Their Home?

When Should Seniors Sell Their Home

A senior’s decision to sell their home can be a complicated one with many complex factors. We’ve compiled a list of 5 considerations for every senior thinking about selling their home.

Consideration 1. What Is The Cost Of Staying At Home?

While you may have already completely paid off your home, the cost of staying there may be a bit higher than expected. There are many big costs that come with maintaining your home, such as replacing an AC unit or adding a new roof. Older homes require more maintenance needs, and the longer you live in the home, the greater the expenses become.

Another important cost factor to be mindful of is property taxes. Even if you do not have a mortgage payment, you will continue to pay these taxes while owning your home. There are a few recurring costs to consider, including the following:

  • Utilities
  • Heating
  • Cooling
  • Lawn maintenance
  • Internet
  • Trash pickup
  • And more!

Consideration 2. Can You Move Around Your Home Safely?

At-home falls are one of leading causes of injury among senior citizens. At a certain point, it will be ideal to make some safety updates to your home. Many dangers can exist in the home like basement stairs, porch steps, and other obstacles that make it hard to navigate.

Aging adults who have lost a bit of balance may be at a higher risk of tripping and falling at home. Safety needs to be the top concern for every senior struggling to decide between selling their home or staying put.

Consideration 3. What Is The Current Housing Market?

Before listing your home, it’s wise to take into account what your current housing market looks like. A hot housing market could lead to a great return on your investment. A cold market, however, is not an ideal time to list your home.

If you are thinking of putting your house on the market, it’s always a good idea to speak with a local realtor who can discuss your options.

Consideration 4. Can You Handle All Home Maintenance Needs?

A lot of homeowners can simply pick up a phone and call a service to take care of maintenance projects like mowing the lawn. This is not always an affordable option, though.

Aging poses a serious threat to homeowners wishing to take care of maintenance needs themselves. Maintaining a house involves significant tasks like landscaping and gutter cleaning. Homes undoubtedly become harder to maintain as the years go on.

Consideration 5. Could You Benefit From Assisted Living Care?

The time may be right for you to enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle. Assisted living communities are great for seniors looking for less stress and household chores.

These communities provide personalized care to seniors in a residential setting. Here is a quick look at services provided by most assisted living communities:

  • Housekeeping
  • Meals
  • Medication needs
  • Laundry
  • Transportation
  • And more!

Why Should You Sell Your Home And Move Into A Senior Living Community?

Let’s take a look at a few of the benefits a senior living community can provide for senior citizens.

Lower Stress Levels For Your Loved One

Assisted living helps lover stress levels in your loved one and improves the quality of life for all involved. Seniors can enjoy their independence while receiving the care and help they require while the loved ones families no longer have concerns about fulfilling their loved one’s needs.

One benefit to assisted living surroundings is that they permit seniors who may have physical issues or the early onset of Alzheimer’s or dementia to live a moderately independent way of life. The facility will usually have on-site medical care, but it will not be there 24/7. An assisted living facility will offer a care level that is suitable for seniors who do not need full-time care, but may require assistance with their meds, eating or food preparation, and other day to day activities.

Contentment And Your Loved Ones Protection

Members of the family will no longer will be concerned about their loved one getting used, falling down, getting lost because of wandering, not eating a healthy diet or taking the incorrect medication. The living facility will take every means they have to ensure your loved ones are continually safe and protected.

The Social Life Of Your Loved One

It’s not that surprising for seniors to start to become lonely as they get up in age. Loneliness in seniors may lead to a lot of complications, ranging from poor health or bouts of depression, problems being active and more.

In the assisted living facility, the residents belong to a part of a supportive, loving, and caring community. Your loved one will surrounded by seniors their own age and have numerous opportunities to socialize and take joy in the company of other seniors.

Increased Activity For Your Loved One

It’s very important that we stay active as we age. Assisted living seniors are offered a bunch of indoor activities as well as outdoor activities from strolling in the courtyard, to gardening, or picnics. Some assisted living communities will offer their residents transportation, so they can go on excursions, go to the corner market or visit the doctor’s office.

Assistance In Day-to-Day Duties

It’s very essential for seniors to have their independence, but also have the assistance they need. Assisted living communities provide their residents with help, only when needed, with daily living undertakings, such as dressing, preparing meals and eating or laundry duties.

Who Qualifies For Assisted Living

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

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