How assisted living can help during a worrisome economy

Assisted Living offers safe environment By Michelle Jones AARP reports that by the year 2030, the number of older Americans will more than double to 71.5 million. That means that 1 in 5 people will be 65 or older. Senior citizens are worried about the stability of the nation's economy and how the downturn affects their lives. Many remember The Great Depression of the 1930's, a decade of high unemployment, widespread poverty and a weak stock market. Seniors take notice of the current economic slowdown and many are compelled to make changes in their lifestyles. The high cost of food, gas and heating oil make some seniors feel increasingly vulnerable and overwhelmed. Assisted living communities can alleviate some of those worries by offering a safe and inviting environment where the services and amenities provided give their residents the freedom to focus their energy on more positive prospects. Seniors are typically surprised by the array of services including social events and outings, activity programs designed to invigorate the body and mind, delicious healthy meals enjoyed with neighbors, assistance with personal care, medication reminders, housekeeping and laundry service, an emergency call system with 24 hour staff, heat and electricity. All assisted living communities offer the same "vanilla" services, but each one packages them differently. Here are some important questions to ask when inquiring at or touring an assisted living community. Q: What types of financial programs do assisted living residences offer? A: Each assisted living offers financial programs that differ greatly from each other. It is important to ask for a detailed explanation of the programs offered. An admissions director should be available to review your financial situation and be able to explain what programs you qualify for now and which program you might qualify for in the future. Q: What do the rates I have been quoted include? A: Some rates are all-inclusive of services, some are a la carte and others offer a package of services that may need to be adjusted as the resident's care needs change. For those rates that are not all-inclusive, it is important to determine what the "bottom line" cost will be each month so that you can project your expenses for the coming year. When it comes to finances, no one likes suprises. Q: Will my parents have to move to a smaller apartment or share an apartment when their assets have been exhausted? A: Many assisted living communities do require their residents to do one or both of these things. This can be a deal breaker for many seniors who value their privacy, dignity and individuality. You should most definitely ask this question of each assisted living community you speak with if this is an important factor to your decision. Many concerns about finances can be addressed during your conversation with an experienced admissions director. It is important that you decide in advance what factors are important to you when making a decision about choosing an assisted living community. You should feel comfortable that your questions have been fully explained in a clear and timely manner. Please feel welcome to contact Michelle Jones, Admissions Director at Christopher Heights of Worcester if you would like to discover the answers to these questions for their community. She may be reached at 508-792-1456, extension 709 or by email at mjones@christopherheights.com. Please visit their web site at www.christopherheights.com. Michelle Jones has been the admissions director at Christopher Heights of Worcester, an Assisted Living residence, since 2003. She has worked in the healthcare field for 25 years. During 12 of those years she has ejnoyed partnering with older adults and their families to assist them in making informed decisions while navigating the healthcare system.