Myths: Is it More Affordable to Stay at Home or in an Assisted Living Facility?
Making the decision to move an elderly loved one into an assisted living community is never easy. However, age and health-related frailties may result in your family member requiring a great deal of assistance with daily activities. They may no longer be able to live alone. For most seniors and their families, continuing to live at home is usually the first choice. Misconceptions about the cost of home care and assisted living facilities often prevent individuals and families from exploring the latter option.
Our experienced assisted living team at Wyndemere Woods in Woonsocket, Rhode Island dispels 3 common myths about assisted living facilities and in-home care expenses.
| Myths | In-Home Care | Vs. Assisted Living |
|---|---|---|
| It’s cheaper to live at home: | Home care aides usually charge by the hour. The rate depends on the level of care and support a senior requires. This does not include emergency assistance or 24/7 care. Added to this is expense, effort and stress of maintaining the senior’s own home. | The cost of home care with the same skill level costs $25-30/hr. It doesn’t take long to reach the same price as what the Wyndemere Woods services cost by having a home care worker by themselves, without including any of the other monthly costs. |
| I will lose my independence and privacy: | Independence and privacy are typically the main reasons for seniors wanting to live at home. However, this can lead to isolation when mobility issues cause them to be dependent on someone else to get around. | Contrary to popular belief, seniors living in retirement homes enjoy their privacy as well as the company of peers in their community. How much or how little you want to socialize is up to you. Even meals may be taken privately if you prefer to do so. Having the option is important. |
| I will be all alone | Being around family members and in the comfort and familiarity of their own home makes seniors feel secure. However, having to navigate stairs and bathroom hazards or spending long hours, even days, without human interaction can lead to depression and related health issues. | Modern assisted living facilities offer all the comforts and conveniences of home with professional support. Family members are encouraged to visit and spend time with seniors. In addition, there are scheduled entertainment and social activities to help them lead an active and fulfilled life. |
Many families do not realize that with escalating needs as you age, home care expenses coupled with rent/mortgage, utilities etc. can quickly exceed the cost of living in an assisted living facility. Planning in advance gives you the time to explore your options and make an informed decision.
We recommend visiting the assisted living facilities in your area to get an idea of the services and lifestyle they support. You should try to plan a visit when scheduled activities are in session. Also make the time to speak with residents to get a good understanding of whether you or your elderly loved one would be happy and comfortable living here.
At Wyndemere Woods Assisted and Independent Living Community in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, we provide all the support you or your senior family member requires while helping them to live with dignity and independence. Comfortable accommodations, the company of peers and a wide range of easily-accessible services and amenities keep them as active as possible and make them feel at home. A dedicated team offers customized care plans to cater to their unique needs and is always on hand to assist them. You will have peace of mind knowing that they will always be well-cared for and treated like family here.
Contact Wyndemere Woods Assisted and Independent Living Community at 401-762-4226 for more information or fill out this online form to book a tour.