If you’ve looked at the board and care homes, also known as residential care homes, and determined they’re an appealing senior living choice for yourself or a loved one, you may have some concerns about charges and fees. Fortunately, when compared to other forms of senior residential living, board and care facilities are sometimes relatively reasonable.
Average board and care expenditures in comparison to other forms of senior living
If you’re thinking about moving into a residential care home, you’ll be relieved to know that the cost of these senior living communities is often far cheaper than the cost of a skilled nursing facility. In many areas, it is even less expensive than an assisted living facility, which normally provides a similar level of care to a board and cares home.
How do board and care homes operate?
Board and care houses, as the name suggests, offer lodging and meals in a residential care environment. They do not offer the medical services found in skilled nursing facilities, which is why they are so much less expensive. In contrast to bigger institutions intended for that specific purpose, nursing and care homes are often residences that have been modified to suit senior living.
If you or a loved one need assistance with everyday chores (such as bathing, clothing, incontinence care, and grooming), a board and care home may be a more personal and intimate option than a larger assisted living in Tarzana. Residents in these residential care facilities may live their lives as autonomously as possible, without the hassles of house upkeep or food preparation. Board and care homes, due to their modest size, provide a customized living experience in a safe and pleasant setting.
Variables influencing board and care costs
You’ll note that the expenses indicated above are expressed as ranges. What factors influence where your expenses fall on that scale? There are three important aspects to consider:
• Your residence: If you pick a board and care facility in a state or city where the cost of living is normally high, you can expect to be given prices at the upper end of the spectrum.
• Private or shared accommodation: Sharing a room with a roommate will not precisely cut your board and care expenditures in half, but it will greatly lower them.
• Other required services: Elder care is often more expensive than conventional board and care services. Furthermore, some residential care facilities may charge an additional fee for incontinence treatment and supplies, as well as transportation.
Does Medicare pay for board and care?
In most circumstances, you must pay for the board and care homes yourself since they are not covered by normal health insurance or Medicare. If you have long-term care insurance, read it carefully and ask your insurer questions, since it may cover residential home fees.
Seniors who are leaving their houses may sell their old dwellings to aid with continuing costs. Reverse mortgages and home equity lines of credit may also offer money. If you have a life insurance policy, you may be able to settle, convert, or borrow against it to help pay for expenditures that Medicare does not cover.