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According to Genworth’s 2019 Cost of Care Survey, the national median cost of assisted living is over $4,000 per month. While these costs can vary depending on multiple factors like location, services, room type, and amenities, it’s not uncommon for individuals to pay anywhere between $30,000 and $70,000 in annual senior living costs. At any price and regardless of their socioeconomic status, the cost of senior living is often a shock for most older adults, no matter how well they’ve planned and budgeted.
Many families strategize to cover the costs of senior living through a combination of private funds that include things like:
The problem? Sometimes, this planning still falls short. And just as many industrious Americans spend their lives working and saving for retirement, but because of other factors and extenuating circumstances, they can’t fully fund assisted living on their own. The search for affordable senior housing and the means to pay for it isn’t always clear. The good news is that there are some government programs that individuals can use to help pay for medical care and/or assisted living. But what is truly covered in these programs?
Medicare is the federal health insurance program that’s designed for people age 65 and older, as well as some younger people who have disabilities. In the same way that most other health insurance companies do not cover the cost of long-term care services, Medicare does not pay for the cost of room and board or personal care in any type of assisted living community.
In fact, Medicare does not cover any of the costs of assisted living—with a few notable exceptions. Under a Medicare plan, individuals are covered for medical costs incurred while a senior is in assisted living. The only other exception? Some Medicare Advantage plans may pay for personal care assistance for persons who reside in assisted living because they need memory care, as granted under Medicare Part C.
Medicaid is often mistaken for Medicare, but there are differences between the two programs. While Medicare is mainly for seniors over the age of 65, Medicaid is a joint program between the federal and state governments that’s designed to help those with low income and limited assets to find ways to cover the costs of healthcare services, including long-term care.
Medicaid assistance for assisted living and senior care communities varies by state since Medicaid is funded jointly by both the federal government and state governments. While the federal government sets guidelines for how each state needs to spend its Medicaid dollars, each state is given leeway to set its own policies within these guidelines, which is why Medicaid coverage for senior care communities is different from one state to the next.
Many states offer long-term care to Medicaid beneficiaries or some level of financial support with the cost of assisted living, either through Medicaid or Medicaid waivers. One important consideration? In assisted living communities, Medicaid doesn’t cover the cost of basic room and board the way it does for nursing home residents who need more intensive care.
Medicaid for long-term care has different resource rules in place than other programs in Colorado. The state’s Medicaid program, Health First Colorado has its own set of guidelines for long-term senior care. Under Health First Colorado, all resources are considered assets, including:
For Medicaid assistance with the cost of senior living, Colorado residents must total up all of their assets to determine how much you have in available resources. Colorado law dictates that a single person can only have up to $2,000 in assets, with a few exclusions like your car and home, up to a value of $589,000. For married individuals, a non-applicant spouse can retain as much as $126,420 in joint assets. Therefore, Medicaid is for those Seniors who have limited Resources and only certain Assisted Living Communities are built to take Medicaid residents. You must check with the facility to see if they accept Medicaid.
While it’s true that under Medicaid, no state can pay for room and board costs in assisted living, states have other means by which they can control these costs. These strategies include:
The U.S Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offer pension funds to eligible wartime veterans and their surviving spouses who have limited income levels and assets. This is an increase from the regular monthly pension, but many veterans and their families don’t know about this higher pension. For veterans and their surviving spouses who require assistance in the performance of daily activities, funding is available to pay for things like tasks of daily living.
Sometimes, these programs just aren’t enough, and in many instances, there’s not much that they cover. This is where long-term care insurance comes into play. Many of these insurance policies cover expenses at accredited assisted living communities, and depending on each policy, many assisted living communities may be covered by long-term care insurance.
Premiums for long-term insurance varies greatly depending on location and how much coverage individuals choose. This insurance is flexible based on the kind of care seniors need, including assisted living, nursing homes, and adult daycares. Because long-term care insurance is privately funded, what’s covered differs from plan to plan and provider to provider. It’s important to ensure your community of choice is covered by your long-term care insurance.
Golden Lodge is the area’s newest senior assisted living community, but we’re so much more than that. Our responsibility is to our residents and their families, to ensure they are comfortable and safe, and that they feel valued. If you are considering assisted living for yourself or a loved one but are worried about how you might pay for it, let’s talk. To learn more about our senior living community, contact us today to schedule a virtual or in person tour.
The thought of exercising can be daunting for many of us, but it doesnt have to be.Sticking to a moderate intensity or within whats called zone 2 cardio can help make exercise more manageable and just as effective, when done consistently and often.What is zone 2 cardio?Some examples of zone 2 cardio include walking, running, biking and swimming.All of these exercises get your heart pumping, but its how fast its going that makes all the difference because this is how hard your body is working to get oxygen through your bloodstream.Jefferson Brewer, an Exercise Physiologist at Intermountain Health said, Your heart doesnt care what youre doing. If youre walking around the neighborhood, pushing the cart around the grocery store, or running up a mountain."When youre doing something at a lower intensity, it will be easiest to do that on an indoor bike or a treadmill with a slight incline, depending on your fitness level. It can be quite hard to run in zone 2 though.Theres a common misconception in the world of fitness training in that you have to be going all gas, no breaks, pedal to the metal at all times, as hard as possible all the time, said Brewer.Zone 2 workouts are going to be more sustained over a longer period, but at a lower intensity, which is different from something like High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) where youre revving the engine up, going to 8 out of 10 or 9 out of 10, and then cooling off for a matter of seconds.The American College of Sports Medicine recommends healthy adults aged 18-65 do moderate intensity or zone 2 cardio for 30 minutes, five days a week, or a total of 150 minutes per week.How do I know Im doing zone 2 cardio right?Most fitness trackers, like Apple Watches and Fitbits, will track your cardio zones.Theyre set to averages, but you can manually adjust your zones in the workout settings.For guidance, these are the average cardiac zones used on Apple Watches:Zone 1: Less than 136 BPMZone 2: 137-148 BPMZone 3: 149-161 BPMZone 4: 162-174 BPMZone 5: 175+ BPMTo know your true cardiac zones, it requires quite a bit of math and some knowledge of your resting heart rate and your maximum heart rate.When you're looking at zone 2 cardio, it's not quite so challenging that you couldn't talk to someone or carry a conversation. You certainly couldnt sing to that person, but youre moving and its not at your max, said Brewer.The easier and more precise option is to book an appointment with one of our Exercise Physiologists or Sports Medicine Providers who can do a VO2 Max test on you to figure out your heart rate zones.
Since the start of the year, you may have noticed an uptick of fad diets. Maybe its your mom trying a pescatarian regime, or your neighbor raving about his new Mediterranean diet. With so many diet trends buzzing around, it can be hard to separate what works from what doesnt. This is especially true when it comes to heart healthy eating.The American Heart Association released a study comparing diets and their heart healthy potential and organized the results in four tiers. With the help of Kelly Elliot, RD at Intermountain Healths Denver Midtown Clinic - Weight Loss Center, we turned the studys results into easy-to-digest bites. It is important to always be mindful of your diet to reduce risk factors for heart disease, said Kelly. Creating a lifestyle that works for you as an individual that you can follow is what matters, because its what you will stick to!Whether youre a seasoned diet tryer, or just dipping your toes in heart-healthy waters, theres important information for everyone.Tier 4: Paleo Diets and VLDC/Ketogenic DietsStarting from the bottom of the barrel, we meet paleolithic and ketogenic diets. These diets, often hailed for their weight loss potential, may miss the mark when it comes to nourishing our hearts.The paleolithic diet, while rooted in our ancestral past, falls short in meeting heart-healthy guidelines. With its emphasis on meat and fat, and limited intake of fruits, grains, and legumes, it takes a detour off the heart health highway.Similarly, ketogenic diets focus on slashing carbs and loading up on fats. By cutting out essential food groups like fruits and grains, we risk missing key nutrients.These diets don't limit saturated fats, which can raise your LDL, which is the bad cholesterol, said Kelly. One way to modify these diets is to reduce saturated fat by consuming nuts and seeds instead of animal proteins, but this has to be balanced with caloric intake.Kelly also added that because these diets are low in carbohydrates, they could be beneficial for people with diabetes. However, because diabetics are at a higher heart disease risk, their saturated fats should be limited.Tier 3: Very Low-Fat Diets and Low-Carbohydrate DietsTier 3 diets include very low-fat and low-carb options, and present mixed heart health benefits.Both of these diets can potentially help with weight loss without omitting food groups and can help lower risk factors for heart disease, said Kelly.Very low-fat diets, while aiming to reduce overall fat intake, may inadvertently miss the mark on essential fatty acids. Likewise, low-carb diets, with their focus on slashing carbohydrates, could lead to a decrease in fiber-rich foods, which play a vital role in heart health.The drawback is that with low fat diets, they can lead to deficiencies in protein and essential fatty acids and B12, that the body requires for good health, said Kelly. On the other hand, a low carb diet can overemphasize animal-based protein and restrict fiber and increase saturated fat intake.Tier 2: Vegan Diets and Low-Fat DietsVegan and low-fat diets are the heart of Tier 2. These dietary paths offer a bounty of heart-healthy benefits with some caveats.The vegan diet, with its plant-based focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, embraces the power of plants for heart wellness. However, tread carefully to ensure youre meeting your nutritional needs, particularly for vitamin B12.No animal protein is consumed in vegan diets, so they are very low in saturated fat intake, but the restrictive diet can lead to B12 deficiency, said Kelly. It is recommended to include a B12 supplement and choose plant-based milk alternatives.Meanwhile, the low-fat diet promises reduced cholesterol and a lighter load on our hearts. By emphasizing lean proteins, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables, it is a good heart healthy diet. But its important to avoid overconsumption of less healthy carbohydrates, such as added sugars.People with high cholesterol or high LDL cholesterol can benefit from replacing foods high in saturated fats with foods that have unsaturated fats, said Kelly.Tier 1: DASH-Style, Mediterranean, Pescatarian, and Ovo/Lacto-Vegetarian DietsStarted from the bottom, and now were here with Tier 1s DASH-Style, Mediterranean, pescatarian, and ovo/lacto-vegetarian diets. Its the pinnacle of heart-healthy eating, where the nutrients shine.Well start with the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, or DASH, diet. By the name alone, you might infer this diets ultra heart healthy nature. It emphasizes 8-10 servings of fruits and vegetables per day, whole grains, plant protein, and low-fat dairy, while limiting sodium.According to Kelly, the DASH diets sodium limitations help cut out highly processed foods, which can help control weight and high blood pressure. This diet provides adequate variety with adequate protein, moderate healthy fats and moderate healthy carbs intake, while minimizing sodium intake, she said.Moving onto the Mediterranean diet, with its emphasis on olive oil, fish, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These heart healthy foods make this a great choice for reducing heart disease risk. However, the Mediterranean diet also includes moderate alcohol consumption, which means two or less drinks for men a day, and one or less drinks for women per day.Kelly cautioned against misinterpreting what moderate alcohol consumption is. This does not mean, to have no alcohol for 3-5 days and then have all 3-5 drinks at one time, she said. These drinks should not include added sugar such as margarita mix, juices, and sugary sodas.A pescatarian diet is similar to a vegetarian diet, with the addition of fish, and sometimes includes dairy and eggs. Lacto-ovo vegetarians eat eggs and dairy, but not beef, poultry, fish, or pork. These diets may be lower in saturated fats, especially if whole milk products are not consumed. The biggest challenge with these diets boils down to protein.Kelly explained it simply as there being complete and incomplete proteins. While animal proteins contain all essential amino acids, plant-based proteins are incomplete, and must be combined for full nutritional benefits.The way to do this is to combine a nut or seed or bean with a grain, said Kelly. For example, red beans and brown rice, or nut butter on whole grain bread, will allow you to consume all of the essential amino acids.While these diets might seem daunting, remember youre not alone. A registered dietitian, like Kelly, can be an excellent starting source.Dietitians are full of ideas and strategies to help each individual overcome barriers to create effective behavior changes, said Kelly. Its important to remember that baby steps and small changes lead to big impacts on your health over time!Whether you're sticking to tried-and-true favorites like the DASH plan or exploring new diet horizons, the key is finding what works best for your heart. Remember, it's not about perfection it's about progress. So go ahead, savor those veggies, indulge in some heart-smart protein, and above all, listen to what your body needs.
Youve heard it before, but since its American Heart Month, well say it again. Heart disease is the leading killer of U.S. adults. The number one cause of death is a frightening number, so heres a new number: 10. Knowing these 10 heart health risk factors, and how to manage them, can save your life.To understand your personalized heart health risk better, check out our online quiz. Or read along and learn the key to a healthy heart from our Intermountain Health caregivers.Maintaining a healthy heart is the cornerstone of overall well-being, as the heart serves as the engine of our body, said Carlos Albrecht, MD, an Intermountain Health cardiologist at St. James Healthcare.1. Family history/geneticsUnderstanding your family's medical history is vital for anticipating health risks. Genetics play a significant role in heart-related issues. After speaking to your primary care provider about your family history, minimize any risks with lifestyle changes.2. SmokingSmoking (including second-hand smoke) deteriorates the cardiovascular system, increasing the likelihood of heart-related issues. This includes traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and vaping nicotine. Your primary care provider can help create a quitting plan.Viet Le, PA-C at Intermountain Medical Center, warned against smokings consequences. Cardiovascular disease and smoking do not mix, he said. It is the highest risk for death and highest risk for cardiovascular events.3. High blood pressureConsider high blood pressure a silent threat with serious consequences. While it often coincides with other risk factors, hypertension is the biggest indicator of heart disease. If your blood pressure is consistently higher than 130/80, consult your primary care doctor.4. Unhealthy dietA diet high in processed and unhealthy foods has direct implications for heart health. Opting for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports cardiovascular well-being. Need heart healthy dish ideas? Check out this Intermountain dietitian cookbook.According to Dr. Albrecht, a balanced diet plays a pivotal role in persevering cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of heart disease. "Just as a well-maintained engine ensures the smooth functioning of a vehicle, a healthy heart is crucial for optimal physical performance and longevity, he said.5. High cholesterolCholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the liver, but its also in foods like meat, poultry, and dairy products. Too much cholesterol can block your bloods circulation, so keeping your cholesterol levels low mitigates heart-related complications. Your primary care provider can order a blood test to obtain your cholesterol level, and help you address the results.6. DiabetesDiabetes introduces a layer of complexity to heart health. Unfortunately, diabetes and heart disease risk often coincide. According to the CDC, those with diabetes are twice as likely to have heart disease or a stroke than those without diabetes. Make a plan with your primary care provider to address your diabetes and minimize heart risk with lifestyle changes.7. Physical inactivityInactive lifestyles contribute to a range of heart-related issues, such as obesity and high blood pressure. Incorporating routine exercise is a great way to minimize these heart-related issues, and keep you feeling healthy.Make sure that youre being active, Le said. The American Heart Association says 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity. That sounds like a lot, but you break it down, its 30 minutes, five days a week. And you can even break it down into 10-minute segments.8. ObesityExcess weight puts strain on the heart, impacting its efficiency and longevity. Everyones ideal body weight varies by person, so talk to your primary care provider about your Body Mass Index (BMI). A BMI calculator evaluates if you have an ideal BMI between 18.6 and 24.9.9. Not enough sleepAdequate sleep is a non-negotiable aspect of overall health, including heart health. According to the American Heart Association, adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night, and children require eight to 16 hours, depending on their age.Enough sleep improves your bodys brain function, immune system, mood and energy, and reduces your risk of chronic disease.10. Too much stressHopefully reading these risk factors hasnt caused stress. Stress can contribute to high blood pressure, among other factors. Managing stress levels helps maintain overall cardiovascular well-being. Your primary care provider can introduce stress-reduction strategies, such as exercise, meditation, and breathing techniques.Maintaining the de-stressors in your life is important. It takes intention. It takes planning, said Le. Give yourself the gift of the present by knowing you can effect change.In the realm of heart health, knowledge is power. Harness this power by understanding your unique risks, regularly visiting your doctor, and taking on heart healthy lifestyle changes. Each choice you make contributes to your cardiovascular well-being.Prioritizing heart health is not just a choice, said Dr. Albrecht. It is a commitment to a vibrant and fulfilling life.
We offer a whole-person approach to memory care focuses on meeting Residents needs while creating an inviting family atmosphere. We offer three secured neighborhoods with a total of 36 studio apartments and a secured courtyard to enjoy the outdoors. The community is overseen by our experienced Director of Care Staff and is staffed 24/7 with team members who are trained in Dementia Care.
Nestled at the base of the foothills Golden Lodge is a new senior living community committed to providing a comfortable and secure lifestyle. Programs and services are matched to the needs of individuals requiring assisted living and those who need extra support due to memory loss. We support each residents' individuality and preferences by creating a warm, inviting atmosphere where residents choose how to spend their days, all while getting the assistance and care when and if they need it. We welcome you to call the Lodge your home and enjoy all we have to offer, including peace of mind.