We know senior living can bring up a lot of questions – and we’re here to help. This FAQ page covers the topics seniors and their families ask about most, from costs and care types to daily life and next steps.
Independent Living
Costs typically range from $2,000 to $4,000 per month. Since this option doesn't include medical or personal care, it's usually less expensive than other types of senior living. The cost often includes rent, meals, housekeeping, and community activities.
Assisted Living
Assisted living generally costs between $4,000 and $6,000 per month. Pricing depends on the level of assistance needed, apartment size, and location. The monthly fee usually includes personal care, meals, housekeeping, transportation, and social activities.
Memory Care
Because it provides specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, memory care can cost $5,000 to $7,000 or more per month. This includes 24/7 supervision, structured programs, and secure environments.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Costs can vary significantly by state and city.
- Some long-term care insurance policies or veterans’ benefits may help cover expenses.
- It’s important to ask each community what is included in the monthly cost and what may be extra.
Signs it may be time for Assisted Living
- Difficulty with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, cooking, or managing medications
- Frequent falls or mobility issues
- Changes in personal hygiene or unclean living spaces
- Poor nutrition or sudden weight loss due to difficulty preparing meals
- Increased isolation or withdrawal from social activities
- Family caregiver stress or burnout from trying to manage care alone
- Worsening chronic health conditions that require regular monitoring or support
Signs it may be time for Memory Care
- Noticeable memory loss that interferes with daily life, such as forgetting names, appointments, or where they are
- Confusion and disorientation, even in familiar places
- Wandering or getting lost
- Increased agitation, anxiety, or mood swings
- Difficulty with communication or understanding directions
- Unsafe behaviors, such as leaving the stove on or neglecting self-care
- Caregiver fatigue from managing dementia-related challenges at home
If you’re noticing these signs, it may be time to explore senior living options. Assisted living and memory care communities provide personalized support, safety, and opportunities for social engagement—improving quality of life for both the individual and their family.
Encouraging your loved one to stay active and socially connected can greatly improve their overall well-being. Here are a few simple ways to help:
Focus on their interests.
Hobbies they already enjoy—like gardening, music, or crafts—are more likely to spark interest.
Promote gentle movement.
Daily walks or light exercises help boost mood and mobility.
Make it social.
Encourage visits with friends and family, or look into community or senior center events that they might enjoy.
Create a routine.
A consistent schedule adds structure and purpose to each day.
Be supportive.
Offer to do activities together at first if your loved one seems hesitant.
Understand the options.
Costs vary depending on the type of care, such as assisted living or memory care, and the level of support required.
Review current finances.
Take stock of savings, retirement income, pensions, and assets to determine what resources are available.
Explore insurance.
Long-term care insurance can help cover some costs. If your loved one is a veteran, they may also qualify for VA benefits.
Look into government programs.
Medicaid may help cover long-term care for those who qualify. Medicare, however, typically only covers short-term care.
Meet with a financial advisor or elder law attorney.
These professionals can help you navigate care costs, plan ahead, and protect assets.
Caring for a loved one can be deeply meaningful, but it can also be physically and emotionally overwhelming. It's important to recognize when you need support—for your own well-being and for the quality of care you provide.
Here are common signs that you may need help as a caregiver:
- Feeling constantly tired or overwhelmed
- Neglecting your own health or skipping medical appointments
- Changes in mood, such as irritability, anxiety, or depression
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or hobbies
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feeling guilty that you’re not doing enough—even when you are
- Resentment or frustration toward your caregiving role
If you're experiencing any of these signs, it's okay—and necessary—to ask for help. Support might come from family, respite care services, a support group, or professional caregiving assistance.