For more information about the author, click to view their website: https://www.countrymeadows.com/communities/south-hills-pa
Keeping Independent Senior Living Costs Affordable
By: Country Meadows | Independent Living
As people plan for the future, one common goal among older
adults is to maintain independence in the comfort of their own homes for as
long as possible. However, life is unpredictable, and there may come a time
when seniors find themselves in need of a little extra support with everyday
tasks or simply crave companionship. Independent living is
designed for seniors who are generally healthy and active, but prefer a
community setting that offers convenience, social engagement with others and
amenities such as meals or recreational activity programs. Independent senior
living costs can vary widely based on several factors such as location,
amenities, additional services provided and type of housing.
Housing type
The type of housing a senior chooses can
significantly impact independent senior living costs. When seeking information
on various types of housing, seniors will find options that may include
apartments, cottages, condominiums or single-family homes. Larger or more
luxurious accommodations typically come at a cost with higher fees.
Location
Particular geographic areas can influence overall expenses.
Independent senior living in urban or high-demand locations will have higher
costs than those in rural areas, as is the case in private homes or rental
properties. For example, independent senior living in New York City will come
at a much higher rate than living in rural Pennsylvania.
Amenities
Independent senior living costs often include a range of
amenities and services such as fitness centers, activities programs,
housekeeping, laundry and transportation services. The more extensive and
upscale the amenities, the higher the cost may be. Consider which amenities are
important to you and your loved one when choosing senior living accommodations.
Meal plans
Some independent living communities offer meal plans as
part of their services. The cost of these plans can vary based on the number of
meals provided each day as well as dining options available, such as special
meals where premium menu items such as filet mignon or lobster are offered.
Utilities and maintenance
Independent senior living costs may include utilities and
maintenance services in their fees, as is the case at Country Meadows
Retirement Communities. Others may have separate charges for these services,
which is why it’s essential to clarify items included in the monthly fee.
Healthcare services
While independent living is designed for seniors who are
relatively healthy, some communities offer healthcare services or have
arrangements with healthcare providers and vendors such as nursing agencies and
medical specialists. Additional healthcare services may come with extra costs.
Community fees and deposits
There are several different types of senior living
communities, and with those come a wide variety of costs. A Continuing Care
Retirement Community, also known as a CCRC, may require a large entrance fee
for admission as well as a monthly charge to guarantee service availability at
every level of care. Other senior living facilities may require a community fee
in addition to monthly charges. This fee may cover administrative costs,
reserve funds or contribute to community improvements.
Social and recreational activities
Access to social and recreational activities may be
included in the monthly fee at some senior living communities, such as Country Meadows’ Vibe program. Some
independent senior living costs might include higher fees for organized events,
outings, entertainment, classes and fitness services.
Transportation services
Transportation services for medical appointments, shopping
trips and social outings may be included in independent senior living pricing
at some communities. At other locations, transportation services may be billed
separately depending on a variety of factors such as distance and time of day.
Security and safety features
Independent senior living costs typically include secured
building entrances and 24-hour emergency response systems in private
apartments. Additional security features which might incur higher fees are 24/7
medical alert systems and security personnel, which can significantly impact
cost.
It’s crucial for seniors and their families to thoroughly
review the costs of each community. Additionally, considering the long-term
financial implications, including any potential increases in fees, is important
when evaluating the affordability of senior independent living.
Stop by one of Country Meadows Retirement
Communities’ nine campuses in Pennsylvania or one in Frederick, Md.,
to pay us a visit. For information about any of our locations or services, or
to ask a Question, please reach out to our expert advisors. We’re
here to help!
Country Meadows
Let's celebrate one of nature's most delightful offerings: the pistachio. These little green gems are not just a treat for the taste buds; they're also packed with health benefits. Let's crack open the world of pistachios and other nuts, exploring their health benefits and some delicious pistachio-based snacks.The Wonder of PistachiosA Nutty HistoryPistachios have been a cherished snack for millennia. Originating from the Middle East, they have been a symbol of wellness and robust health since ancient times. Today, they are enjoyed worldwide, known for their unique flavor and vibrant green hue.Health Benefits of Pistachios1. Heart Health: Pistachios are great for your heart. They're loaded with antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber, which help in reducing cholesterol levels and lowering the risk of heart disease.2. Weight Management: Despite being energy-dense, pistachios have a high protein content and fiber, which can help in feeling full and preventing overeating.3. Blood Sugar Control: Their low glycemic index makes pistachios a smart snack choice for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.4. Eye Health: Pistachios contain lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that are crucial for eye health.We've put together a selection of pistachio-based snacks. From roasted and salted pistachios to pistachio-infused treats, there's something for every nut lover. These snacks are perfect for a healthy, satisfying nibble.Uncanny | Pistachio Salted | 1.3oz CanWonderful | No Shell Pistachios Roasted & Salted 0.75ozconsciouSnack Obleas Pistachio Amaranth Wafers (1.05oz)B'cuz | Granola Bites Cherry Pistachio Gluten-Free Snack (1oz)A Nut for Every NeedWhile pistachios are in the spotlight today, let's not forget about the wide variety of nuts available, each with its own set of health benefits. Almonds are great for vitamin E, walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and cashews are packed with iron and magnesium. Incorporating a mix of nuts into your diet can provide a broad spectrum of nutrients and health benefits.Visit our website - we are more than snacks, we promote wellness. Perfect for vegans, diabetics, celiac, keto, and more...
What You Have HeardAsk yourself, was the info you heard from a Certified Medicaid Planner?Medicaid Misconception #1 - You can only have $2,000.FACTSSingle applicants have a resource limit of $2,000. (in 2024) A married applicant has a resource limit of about $150,000. (in 2024)Medicaid Misconception #2 - Your home will be taken from you if you are on Medicaid.FACTSAll applicants are allowed to have 1 home and 1 car. There are ways to avoid Medicaid estate recovery, an applicant can receive Medicaid and keep their home.Medicaid Misconception #3 - You make too much money.FACTS If you are over the income limit, Beneficent can provide the legal steps using the Medicaid code to bypass being over the income limit.Medicaid Misconception #4 - You must spend down to $2,000 to qualify for Medicaid.FACTSThis is an option, however not your only option. If you want to preserve the hard-earned assets you or your loved one has worked their entire life, you can!Medicaid Misconception #5 - Why doesnt everyone apply for Long-term Care Medicaid if the other outcome statements are true?FACTSMany are deceived by misinformation and preconceived notions. There's a game-changer you need to know about - Certified Medicaid Planners (CMP) - we know the rules and regulations.You can find all the CMPs in the United States here, (https://cmpboard.org/locate-a-cmp/) there arent too many of us! Need to schedule an appointment with one of our Certified Medicaid Planners at Beneficent? Book here (https://calendly.com/doinggoodforothers) or call our office (719.645.8350) for more appointment times.
Youve probably heard stories about fortunate investors who get in the ground floor of a new, hot company and quickly make a fortune. But while these things may happen, they are exceedingly rare and often depend on hard-to-duplicate circumstances and they really dont represent a viable way of investing for ones goals. A far more tried-and-true approach is the slow-and-steady method.To follow this strategy, consider these suggestions: Start small and add more when you can. When youre first starting out in the working world, you may not have a lot of extra money with which to invest, especially if youre carrying student loan debt. But one of the key advantages of the slow-and-steady method is that it does not require large investment sums to get going. If you can afford to put away even $50 or $100 a month into individual stocks or mutual funds, month after month, you may be surprised and pleased at how your account can grow. And when your salary goes up, you can put away more money each month. Take advantage of an employers retirement plan. If your employer offers a 401(k) or similar tax-advantaged retirement plan, try to take full advantage of it. Again, if youre just beginning your career, you may not be able to put away much in this type of plan, but even a small amount is better than nothing. And as soon as you can possibly afford it, try to put in enough to earn your employers matching contribution, if one is offered. These types of plans can offer some key benefits and perhaps the biggest one is that investing is automatic, in that the money is moved directly from your paycheck into the investments youve chosen within your 401(k) or other plan. Be prepared for downturns. The financial markets will always experience ups and downs. So, you need to be prepared for those times when your investment statements may show negative results. By understanding that these downturns are a normal part of the investment environment, you can avoid overreactions, such as selling quality investments with good fundamentals just because their price has temporarily dropped. Chart your progress regularly. A key element of a slow-and-steady investment approach is knowing how well its working. But its important to measure your progress in a way that makes sense for you. So, for example, instead of measuring your portfolios performance against that of an external stock market index, such as the S&P 500, you may want to assess where you are today versus one year ago, or whether the overall progress youre making is sufficient to help you meet the financial goals youve set for yourself well into the future. Another reason not to use a market index as a measuring tool is that the index only looks at a certain pool of investments, which, in the case of the S&P 500, is simply the largest companies listed on U.S. stock exchanges. But long-term investors try to own a range of assets U.S. and foreign stocks, bonds, government securities, certificates of deposit, and so on. Slow and steady may not sound like an exciting approach to investing. But its often the case that a little less excitement, and a lot more diligence, can prove to be quite effective. Chad Choate III, AAMS 828 3rd Avenue West Bradenton, FL 34205 941-462-2445 chad.chaote@edwardjones.com This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC