Discover the senior living costs associated with paying for assisted living.
Getting into college, buying a home, and understanding how to pay taxes are all complex tasks to accomplish alone. Setting yourself up for life after retirement should be easy. However, it’s hard to juggle budgets when the pricing structure of senior living is not advertised in big, bold letters.
Senior living communities do not typically advertise how to pay for assisted living. It would be helpful if they did. That’s why we at Pegasus Senior Living have created this guide.
When investigating senior living costs, it helps to know what services and benefits are included.
Understanding the financial aspects of senior living can be a daunting task, especially given the varied costs associated with:
- Independent living communities
- Assisted living facilities
- Memory care centers
Knowing exactly what you’re paying for and how you can cover the costs is crucial. Many older adults use personal savings, long-term care insurance, and other financial assistance options.
With the recent announcement of cost of living adjustments in Social Security benefits, many seniors are considering the possibilities of an assisted living community fitting into their budgets. The 5.9 percent increase is sure to help your decision.
Are senior living communities private pay?
Navigating the world of senior living and understanding the costs involved can often feel like a complex maze. One common question is: “Are senior living communities private pay?” To answer simply, yes, they are.
Choosing a senior living community is largely a matter of personal preference. Think of it as a similar process to renting an apartment or booking a hotel room.
The amenities provided, the location, and the unique perks each community offers all play a significant role in your decision-making process. And paying for these essential services is up to you, just like any other investment.
Pegasus Senior Living communities are private pay and can cater to any lifestyle that does not require nursing home care. Residents cover the costs of living within our communities, from the level of care to activities of daily living (ADLs). These costs can be met through various means, such as:
- Personal savings
- Long-term care insurance
- VA aid and attendance benefits
- Reverse mortgage
We strive to provide a range of options to cater to different budgets and financial situations. This flexibility allows us to accommodate independent lifestyles for older adults who do not require nursing home care.
Figuring out how to cover assisted living costs can feel overwhelming. Our team is always available to guide you through the process. Consult our guide on potential financial assistance opportunities.
What level of senior living is best for me?
Pegasus Senior Living communities focus on:
Some communities offer all three options. This structure makes it easier to age in place and never hassle with moving again.
Some are dedicated to active independent living and includes amenities such as an indoor pool. Understanding what you want now or may need in the future can increase your financial stability.
Monthly costs will generally increase with higher levels of care.
Independent Living
For retired people who wish to maintain an active and vibrant lifestyle, independent living is an excellent choice. Our communities are designed with numerous amenities, including fitness centers and social clubs. We give socially active adults countless opportunities for engagement, exercise, and enjoyment.
This option provides a carefree lifestyle with all the comforts of home, without the burden of home maintenance or chores.
Assisted Living
Assisted living is all about personalized care that meets your specific needs. We understand that each person is unique, and our care plans reflect that.
Residents receive help with daily tasks such as:
- Medication management
- Personal care
- Mobility
- Bathing, dressing, and grooming
This level of care offers peace of mind and independence. Professional support is available round the clock.
Memory Care
Our Connections memory care program is designed specifically for individuals experiencing Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Dr. Sandra Petersen designed the signature Connect, Move, Learn activity sequence. Her research in neuroplasticity created a program that:
- Provides engaging activities that stimulate cognitive abilities
- Promotes social interaction
- Enhances overall well-being
- Slows progression
Everyone deserves to live a life filled with purpose and dignity, regardless of cognitive challenges. Our dedicated dementia care team delivers compassionate support in a secure environment.
What are you paying for in senior living costs?
Hospitality services to make life easy and health care for peace of mind, such as:
| Amenities | • Activity programs • Multiple chef-inspired meals a day • Paid utilities • WiFi, cable, and phone included |
| Services | • Housekeeping • Laundry • Transportation • Maintenance |
| Care | • Licensed nurse • Ongoing monitoring of residents’ health • On-site physical, occupational, and speech therapy |
Does Medicare pay for assisted living?
No.
You can receive some services while living in an assisted living or skilled nursing facility that Medicare may pay a portion of, but it will not cover the cost of residency. However, long-term care insurance, social security, and VA benefits can help pay for more services.
What is a base rate?
Like staying in a hotel, the base rate is the daily cost breakdown. Depending on the size of your apartment, the base rate is between $90-$150 a day. Pegasus communities offer various apartment layouts, from studios to two-bedroom apartments.
What does the base rate include?
- Three meals a day and snacks prepared by our culinary team using seasonal ingredients that are locally sourced
- Access to the wellness center and exercise classes
- Community transportation to appointments, excursions, and shopping
- Housekeeping, linen service, and maintenance
- Access to the activities calendar
- Special events and parties your community hosts
- Utilities paid
What is the price for care services?
Lower than you would think.
Care services in our communities are based on an hourly rate. Because each person needs different services, there are six levels of care. Our senior living experts determine which level of care is best for you or your loved one. $10-$15 a day provides:
- Licensed and registered nurses
- Medication management
- Dressing services
- Bathing services
- Assistance with dining needs
- Behavior tracking and management
- Incontinence care/management
- Secure environment for individuals with memory loss
- Diabetic care and sliding scale insulin management (in select communities)
- Personal check-ins throughout the day
- On-site physical, occupational, and speech therapy
*This is not a comprehensive list of all Pegasus community offerings. Services vary by location; find one near you.
What’s the difference between hospitality and health care?
Hospitality and health care are the two pricing tiers in senior living. Hospitality, like a hotel, implies the amenities to which you will enjoy full access. Health care is a sliding scale cost depending on your needs.
How does assisted living or memory care compare to the cost of living at home in Washington?
The Genworth Cost of Care Survey is a fantastic resource for comparing costs of senior living across the country. Comparing state by state, you may find care is cheaper in a location closer to friends or family. Overall, the cost of living in a Washington senior community is lower than the national average!
The national average for assisted living is $5,350 per month.
It’s okay to do a bit of homework. Add up your current monthly budget and compare it to a month’s cost in assisted living. The results can be surprising.
Think of the things that factor into the cost of living in a Pegasus community:
- Meals
- Transportation
- Housekeeping
- Linen service
- Landscaping
- Utilities
- Entertainment
- Exercise and activities
- Basic health monitoring
Think of the things you do not need to pay for in assisted living:
- Property tax
- Home repairs
- Home remodels
- Surprise utility bills
Is the cost of senior living in Washington worth it?
You’ll have access to modern amenities in spacious and accessible apartments at Pegasus Senior Living communities. If you need care now or require it in the future, all those options will be available.
The complete activities calendar we keep means there’s never a dull moment. Join in on a wellness program, live concert, new hobby, or simply relax outside in the shade — the choice is yours.
How do I discover the price of senior living near me?
Contact Pegasus Senior Living today. Find a community near you to speak with a senior living sales specialist who can answer your questions and help you navigate this journey to the life you want.