As we age, choosing a living situation that fits our needs becomes increasingly important. For many seniors, that means moving into a senior living community. While the thought of change can be daunting, there are countless benefits to be gained by making the switch.
The costs of senior care — assisted living and home care, for example — are essential factors in making a decision. This guide provides an overview of the benefits of senior living in Littleton, CO.
At StoneCreek of Littleton, our team is committed to simplifying the journey to assisted living and memory care. We offer financial resources and partners who can help make the transition easier.
Why Do Older Adults Choose Senior Care?
There are many reasons seniors choose to move into a senior living community:
- Some want to downsize from their current home
- Some want to let go of the responsibilities of home maintenance
- Many seniors struggle to keep up with lawn maintenance and outdoor chores
- Many older adults are trying to free themselves of the burden of property taxes
- It’s appealing to not spend up to $40,000 on one home improvement for changing needs
- Living alone becomes unmanageable for some
- Over six million Americans have dementia and require memory care
Retirees are looking for social opportunities and a sense of community. For some, it’s simply a matter of having peace of mind. Help is close if it’s ever needed. No matter the reason, switching to assisted living for senior care offers countless benefits.
What’s Included In The Cost Of Senior Living?
The cost of senior living varies depending on the type of community you choose and the location. Most communities include several key features and amenities. These can include things like:
- Maintenance-free apartments
- On-site dining options
- Transportation services
- Social and recreational activities
- Fitness centers
- 24-hour security
- Housekeeping and laundry services
Many also offer multiple types of care, such as assisted living and memory care.
Are you or a family member considering a move to a senior care community? What exactly does the monthly cost include?
Senior Housing
Assisted living offers studio or multi-room apartments. Kitchenettes are a common feature as residents enjoy meals in the dining room.
Memory care tends to be in private rooms or shared suites. These smaller spaces are better for offering a familiar environment.
Maintenance and Housekeeping Services
Eliminating chores isn’t only about relaxing. These services reduce an older adult’s risk of injury. Residents do not have to worry about paying for costly home repairs or accidents. These costs are included in the monthly bill.
Transportation
Senior living communities offer scheduled transportation for personal errands, medical care appointments, and shopping trips. Group outings for lunch trips, scenic drives, and cultural events are typical.
Access to On-site Amenities
Amenities in a residential care facility make life feel like living in a resort. Features at StoneCreek of Littleton include:
- Library
- Walking paths
- Salon
- Art studio
- Garden
- Private courtyard
- Dining venues
- Private dining rooms for family events
- Fitness center and on-site therapy
Social and Recreational Activities
Many assisted living communities offer a wide range of social and recreational activities to keep residents engaged and active. Some everyday social activities include outings to local attractions, group exercise classes, game nights, and movies.
Social groups like gardening or cooking clubs provide opportunities for residents to share their hobbies. Seniors can benefit from connecting with others who have similar interests.
Recreational activities typically include group fitness classes, arts and crafts, and outdoor pursuits like walking or hiking. StoneCreek of Littleton organizes regular trips to places of interest in the Denver area.
24/7 Associates
Consider the level of care needed when choosing a senior living community. Living in a community with 24/7 team members offers invaluable peace of mind.
Round-the-clock staff means help is always available. Teams can respond to complicated accidents or answer simple questions. Access to care and support means residents can enjoy retirement with confidence.
Nutritious Meals
For seniors, food is more than just sustenance. It’s a way to socialize, connect, and stay active. That’s why StoneCreek of Littleton places an emphasis on dining options.
From formal dining rooms to casual cafes, seniors have the opportunity to gather and enjoy a meal.
Senior living communities offer a variety of menu options to accommodate residents’ diverse dietary needs. For an additional culinary treat, older adults can also attend special events, such as cooking demonstrations, happy hours, and holiday parties.
Personal Care Assistance
Activities of daily living (ADLs) include tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating. Additional health care services like medication management, bathroom assistance, and mobility support are offered in assisted living and memory care at StoneCreek of Littleton.
Care costs are usually determined by the level of support required. After an initial assessment, each resident is offered individual care plans, which can change according to their needs.
Long-term care insurance and VA benefits are popular options to help pay for senior care.
The Cost of Assisted Living vs. Home Care
There are several factors to consider when choosing in-home care or assisted living for older adults. One crucial factor is the cost.
Senior home care can be more expensive than assisted living, especially if the home care agency provides skilled services.
According to the latest CareScout survey, the cost of senior care in Littleton looks like this:
- The average cost of homemaker services (44 hours per week) is $7,627 per month
- The average cost of a home health aide (44 hours per week) is $7,817 per month
- The average cost of assisted living is $5,000 per month
- The average cost of nursing home care is $10,433 per month*
The cost of assisted living can vary depending on the level of support a resident needs. If a loved one only requires basic assistance with activities of daily living, then senior care costs are less.
Another factor to consider is medical needs. A full-time home caregiver may be a better option for complex medical conditions. However, assisted living communities can offer personalized services for changing lifestyles.
Consider the lifestyle preferences of your loved one. Home care may be better if they prefer more independence and privacy. However, a community environment with friends can offer a higher quality of life, filled with socialization and activity.
Compare the cost of senior living to the costs associated with maintaining a traditional home. Seeing the value of assisted living is easy when you don’t have to pay for:
- Mortgage or rent payments
- Property taxes
- Variable utility bills
- Yard work help
- Home repairs and modifications
Adding in the other benefits, such as socialization opportunities, security, convenience, and maintenance-free living, makes the decision even easier.
Find A Senior Living Expert Near You
Contact a senior living expert if you’re currently weighing your housing options for a loved one or yourself. The cost of assisted living is not as scary as you may think.
StoneCreek of Littleton offers residents much more than just a place to live. We provide an opportunity to live life to the fullest.
There are countless reasons seniors choose long-term care in Littleton, CO. When comparing the costs of traditional homeownership, it’s easy to see how senior living can provide superior value for the money.
StoneCreek of Littleton Can Help You Navigate the Cost of Senior Care Near You
Contact us to learn more about life in a Littleton senior living community. To simplify the journey, arrange a tour with our team.
*Figures are taken from the 2023 CareScout cost of care survey.
