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How Long Does It Take to Find Assisted Living?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Ashlee Shefer is a freelance copywriter, content writer, and digital marketer who specializes in senior care, mental health, health care, and other wellness-related topics. She has one year of experience writing both short- and long-form content related to senior resources, assisted living, nursing homes, and home care, including blog posts, research-based articles, resource guides, product reviews, facility blurbs, finances, and care costs.
How long it takes to find assisted living depends on how many facilities are in your area and whether beds are available. The whole process can take a few weeks to several months. Many communities have limited availability and keep waiting lists to contact individuals once space opens. Your loved one’s health and financial situation can also influence the timeline. If they have health needs requiring specific services or medications, you may need to consult with medical professionals to ensure a chosen community can meet those needs.
Additionally, assisted living can be pricey, depending on location, services and amenities. According to the 2021 Genworth Cost of Care Survey, the national average cost for assisted living is $4,500 per month, although this price varies across cities and states. Review your loved one’s finances to determine a monthly budget and explore funding options if needed.
Can you expedite the process of getting into assisted living?
You may be able to expedite the process of getting into assisted living if your loved one’s health status presents an urgent need for care. However, this depends on whether an apartment is available and the community’s specific policies. Each community has its own rules when it comes to managing wait lists and admitting new residents.
If your loved one’s medical needs are complex, it may actually be harder to get into assisted living. These facilities aren’t typically equipped for long-term medical care. Additionally, some communities only accept a small number of residents using certain funding options, including Medicaid. Contacting communities directly can help you understand their admittance procedures.
What other care options are available if you can’t find assisted living?
There are numerous alternative care options available to aid your loved one while searching for assisted living. If they need assistance with personal care tasks, including dressing and meal preparation, but not medical care, home care may be an ideal solution. Meanwhile, home health care offers skilled nursing services, including wound care, medical equipment assistance and rehabilitative therapies.
Seniors recovering from illnesses or injuries may benefit from short-term rehab or skilled nursing care. Some nursing homes accommodate short-term residents if beds are available. Additionally, adult day care programs provide daytime-only supervision and care and are usually more affordable than other care options.