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How Much Extra Money Per Month Is Needed in Assisted Living?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
How much extra money per month is needed for assisted living varies according to an individual’s lifestyle, preferences and support needs, but the average cost of assisted living in the United States is $4,500 monthly. However, precise fees depend on the facility’s location, amenities and services.
Services included in assisted living fees
Assisted living fees include room and board, maintenance, tailored support services, daily enrichment activities and communal facilities such as gardens, lounges and libraries. Rates also comprise social services, case management, housekeeping and laundry, and many facilities include scheduled local and medical transportation, utilities and wellness checks as part of the base fee. However, seniors may incur supplemental charges that they must pay from private funds. It’s crucial to check what a facility’s base rate includes, as some communities charge for specialized care services and medication management, while others don’t.
Extra payments for assisted living residents
Common extras include telephone, internet and cable TV. Residents may incur additional charges for accommodating dietary preferences, and many communities have paid refreshment outlets, such as a bistro or cafe, on top of inclusive meal services. Moreover, residents who cook in their private accommodations must cover their grocery bills. Beauty services, such as haircuts and manicures at on-site salons, generally attract additional charges. Many communities bill extra for resident car parking spaces or chartered transportation services. Additionally, although Medicare covers some costs, visiting medical services from podiatrists, dentists, audiologists and ophthalmologists often fall outside monthly assisted living charges.