There are several options when it comes to senior living. Older adults can either choose to live at home or move into independent living communities. Several attributes should be considered when determining the ideal senior living options for the elderly. Cost happens to be the main factor to keep in mind when it comes to such a decision.
Different expenses will be incurred for one to afford the services of independent living in Lindenwold, NJ. Independent living communities allow older adults to coexist alongside their peers in designated homes. These centers are equipped with the right amenities for recreation alongside numerous programs that are aimed at promoting socialization and improving the health and well-being of the residents.
On the other hand, home care involves a living arrangement where the elderly stay in their original homes. In this manner, they get to maintain their old routines besides being closer to their loved ones. Read on as we compare the cost of home care living versus the cost of independent living in Lindenwold, New Jersey.
Home Care
The decision on whether or not home care is right for your loved one is based on the cost of facilitating the alternative. Most retirees often have limited resources now that they are out of work or no longer as productive as they used to be in their heydays. Thus, it is crucial to understand whether they have the financial muscle to sustain home care.
There are certain expenses that you should look at when considering home care. First, even with the mortgage paid off, retirees still have to worry about property taxes, the cost of utilities, and insurance. Apart from that, the cost of home maintenance and repair is also accounted for when summing up the cost of home care.
On top of that, older adults who choose to reside at home have to take care of their transportation expenses in addition to purchasing food and groceries. Retirees who live at home also have to bear the cost of modifying their homes to cater to their special needs. That includes setting up proper security features and emergency response technology. They may also have to install handrails for extra support to enable effortless movement.
All these costs can be very expensive for retirees with strained financial resources. Plus, the option tends to isolate the elderly which is not good for their mental and physical well-being. Generally, older adults that opt to age in place will have to part with more than $ 5,000 per month exclusive of the cost of outsourcing home-based caregiving services.
Independent Living
On average, the elderly need to pay about $3,700 each month for independent living. The option provides a lot of independence. Additionally, the option is more carefree since the elderly only have to focus on their health and welfare.
They do not have to mind paying property taxes or maintaining their properties. Most of their chores like cleaning the common areas or washing toilets are done by caregivers designated assistance in the community. Unlike in home living care where they are isolated, residents of independent living communities have more chances to interact with their peers.
Apart from that, the centers have different programs that promote socialization and focus on promoting an active life among the residents. Again, the elderly do not have to buy groceries or food or pay for utilities since all that is included in the monthly charge. As if that is not enough, bus fare and other travel expenses will be a thing of the past as independent living communities provide free day-to-day transportation.
Final Verdict
Home care can help retirees to retain their original way of life and exempts them from the inconvenience that comes with starting life in new surroundings. Nonetheless, the alternative comes at a steep cost as compared to independent living. The independent living option is much more cost-effective. Plus, it comes with many other benefits like increased socialization that older adults might not enjoy at home.
