As you look at senior living options for yourself or for a loved one, it can be difficult to deduce what care level is best. Our team at Heritage Pointe is here to talk through our care options and find the best fit.
We offer assisted living in Orange County, California, which may be the right option for seniors who need assistance with activities of daily living. This blog will explore what assisted living is, who qualifies for assisted living, assisted living vs. nursing homes and the cost of assisted living.
For seniors who are looking for supportive living situations, but do not need full-time care, assisted living may be appropriate. The National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) explains assisted living as “serving individuals who generally need help with every day activities and some health care services, but do not require 24-hour on going skilled nursing care services for extended periods of time.”
Assisted living should help residents maximize and maintain their independence for as long as possible. Each resident has individual needs and preferences; assisted living provides personalized care.
Assisted living at Heritage Pointe is supportive and comfortable. We provide personal senior care, support, and assistance with the activities of daily living, so residents can remain independent while having the option of support.
Heritage Pointe’s Sage Living neighborhood offers residents access to a higher level of care when needed. Sage Living includes:
- 24-hour, specially trained staff on site
- Increased staff-to-resident ratio
- A secure environment dedicated to care and providing the highest quality of life
- Multiple areas for group activities and smaller, individualized activities
- Daily wellness, social and physical activities
- Support with personal care, housekeeping, laundry, activities, and meals
- Sage Living Spa with roll-in shower and side-loading whirlpool bath
- Access to Heritage Pointe’s full range of services and amenities
Assisted Living vs. Nursing Home
Assisted living is intended for seniors who require some assistance with activities of daily living, but not round the clock care. While living in an assisted living community, seniors are equipped to maintain their daily life and routines with access to care if needed. Alternatively, nursing homes provide 24/7 care for adults with serious health issues.
How long people live in assisted living depends on their overall health and development of needs or conditions. The NCAL estimates individuals live in assisted living for 22 months, then move to a nursing home or a different living arrangement (i.e., home with family, different facility, etc.).
Who Qualifies for Assisted Living
Because assisted living is so personalized, there are no strict qualifications for residents to meet. Generally, residents who need assistance with some activities of daily living (i.e., bathing, cooking, cleaning, etc.), require minimal skilled nursing services (not 24/7 care), are in rehabilitation or need medication management assistance are candidates for assisted living.
Residents who need constant supervision or memory care may be better suited for our memory care program.
Our team is happy to talk through care options — contact us today for more information.
How Much Does Assisted Living Cost?
According to the Genworth Cost of Long-Term Care survey, the estimated median cost of assisted living for 2024 was $5,551 monthly. Cost depends on a variety of factors, such as location in the United States, room size, amenities, care level, etc.
As you’re deciding if assisted living is the right fit, you may be wondering, how do I pay for assisted living? Many combine resources, such as personal savings, long-term care insurance, veterans’ benefits or other sources of income. Generally, Medicare does not cover assisted living costs, and not all communities accept Medicaid. Before committing to an assisting living community, it is important to understand what payments are accepted, what payment plans are available, and to have a plan to cover the costs.
For more information about our assisted living in Orange County and the best fit for you or your loved one, reach out to us today!