A Guide to Presbyterian Assisted Living

Discover the ultimate guidebook to Presbyterian assisted living. Find faith-centered care and compare costs and services.

May 21, 2024

Understanding Assisted Living

Assisted living communities provide long-term housing for older adults who are generally active but need support with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and using the toilet. They offer a supportive and safe environment where residents can maintain their independence while receiving assistance with certain tasks. When considering assisted living, it's important to understand the cost considerations and services provided.

Cost Considerations

The cost of assisted living can vary depending on factors such as location, amenities, and level of care required. Generally, assisted living is about two-thirds the cost of skilled nursing care. It's important to note that assisted living is typically not covered by Medicare, as it is considered non-medical care. Therefore, it is usually paid out-of-pocket, with a few states offering Medicaid waivers for assisted living services.

When considering the cost of assisted living, it is crucial to ask about billing practices, bed reservations, refunds, and payment options. Assessing your personal resources and the duration your loved one may spend in the assisted living community is also important [2]. By understanding the cost considerations associated with assisted living, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your financial situation.

Services Provided

Assisted living communities focus on keeping residents healthy, socially engaged, and as independent as possible, while still providing the necessary support for daily activities. The specific services offered can vary from one community to another, but commonly include:

Assistance with personal care activities, such as bathing, grooming, and dressing.
Medication management and assistance with healthcare appointments.
Meal preparation and dietary support to ensure proper nutrition.
Housekeeping and laundry services to maintain a clean and comfortable living environment.
Social and recreational activities to promote social engagement and overall well-being.
Transportation services for medical appointments, shopping, and other outings.

Unlike nursing homes, which primarily provide round-the-clock medical care, assisted living communities are designed to support individuals who are relatively independent but require some assistance with daily tasks. By offering a range of services tailored to individual needs, assisted living communities strive to enhance the quality of life for their residents.

Understanding the cost considerations and services provided in assisted living communities is essential when exploring this option for yourself or a loved one. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and find an assisted living community that aligns with your needs, preferences, and budget.

Faith-Based Assisted Living

When it comes to assisted living, faith-based communities provide an option that caters to the spiritual needs of older adults. These communities recognize the importance of faith and offer services that align with residents' religious beliefs. In this section, we will explore the importance of faith in assisted living and the services typically offered in faith-based communities.

Importance of Faith

Studies show that a significant number of seniors identify with a particular faith or religion, with over 90 percent of seniors considering themselves spiritual or religious and participating in regular religious or spiritual worship services. For many older adults, faith plays a vital role in their lives, providing comfort, guidance, and a sense of community. Incorporating faith into their daily lives can have a positive impact on their overall well-being.

Faith-based assisted living communities recognize the spiritual needs of their residents and understand the significance of maintaining a connection to their faith. These communities create an environment that fosters religious practices and provides opportunities for residents to engage in spiritual activities.

Services Offered

Faith-based assisted living communities offer a range of services that cater to the spiritual needs of their residents. While specific services may vary depending on the community and denomination, the following are common offerings found in these communities:

On-site Chapel Services: Many faith-based communities have on-site chapels or designated spaces for religious services. These spaces provide a convenient and comfortable setting for residents to participate in worship services, prayer groups, and other religious activities.
Bible Studies and Spiritual Guidance: Faith-based communities often organize Bible studies and other spiritual programs to help residents deepen their religious knowledge and understanding. These programs may be led by chaplains or other religious leaders within the community.
Pastoral Care: The presence of a chaplain or spiritual counselor is a significant aspect of faith-based assisted living communities. These professionals offer emotional support, spiritual guidance, and counseling to residents, providing a source of comfort during challenging times.
Religious Events and Celebrations: Faith-based communities frequently organize religious events and celebrations that align with the beliefs and traditions of their residents. These events may include holiday services, religious festivals, and other special occasions.
Community Outreach: Many faith-based communities emphasize community outreach and encourage residents to participate in charitable endeavors. This involvement allows residents to live out their faith by giving back to the wider community.

It's important to note that faith-based assisted living communities are open to individuals of all faiths and backgrounds, and while religious events and services are offered, residents are not obligated to participate. These communities strive to create an inclusive environment where residents can find support, a sense of belonging, and the freedom to practice their faith.

Presbyterian senior living is an example of a faith-based assisted living provider that understands the significance of spirituality and faith for older adults' overall well-being. These communities offer the care and services needed by older adults while also providing access to religious services and support.

By choosing a faith-based assisted living community, individuals can find a supportive environment that fosters their spiritual well-being, enabling them to maintain a connection to their faith while receiving the care and assistance they require.

Types of Senior Living Communities

When considering senior living options, it's essential to understand the different types of communities available. Two common types are independent living and personal care/assisted living. Each offers unique features and services tailored to the varying needs of seniors.

Independent Living

Independent living communities are not solely for adults nearing the end of their lives; they also cater to active seniors who desire a maintenance-free lifestyle, companionship, and a sense of community [5]. Independent living is designed for seniors who are active and capable of living on their terms without assistance with daily activities. Residents in independent living communities have their own private residences and enjoy access to various community services and amenities.

The average monthly cost for independent living communities varies based on factors such as location, services offered, contract type, and community type. On average, monthly costs can range around $2,765, but it's important to note that costs can differ significantly depending on these factors. Additionally, Life Plan Communities, which offer a continuum of healthcare services in addition to independent living, may have entrance fees ranging from approximately $107,277 to $427,054.

Personal Care and Assisted Living

Personal care and assisted living communities cater to seniors whose care needs have increased beyond what independent living can offer. These communities provide customized services based on individual needs. Assisted living is designed for seniors who require support with daily living activities, which is provided by professional staff members. Residents live in private residences within the senior living community and have access to services such as dining programs, housekeeping, and social events.

The average monthly cost of assisted living can vary based on location. For example, in the Chicago area, it's estimated to be around $4,938 according to Genworth's Cost of Care Survey.

Understanding the distinctions between independent living and personal care/assisted living communities is crucial when considering the right senior living option. By evaluating individual needs, preferences, and budget, seniors and their families can make informed decisions that best suit their lifestyle and care requirements.

Choosing the Right Community

When it comes to selecting the right assisted living community, there are several factors to consider. It's essential to evaluate these factors carefully to ensure that the chosen community aligns with individual preferences and needs.

Factors to Consider

Location: The location of the assisted living community is an important consideration. It's beneficial to choose a community that is conveniently located, allowing easy access for family and friends to visit. Additionally, consider the proximity of essential amenities such as healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and recreational activities.
Cost: Financial considerations play a significant role in choosing an assisted living community. Evaluate the cost structure, including monthly fees, potential additional charges, and any financial assistance programs that may be available. It's important to find a community that fits within your budget without compromising the quality of care and services provided.
Services and Amenities: Assess the range of services and amenities offered by the community. Look for features that are essential to maintaining a comfortable lifestyle, such as housekeeping, meal plans, transportation services, fitness centers, recreational activities, and access to healthcare facilities. Consider your specific needs and preferences to ensure that the community can meet them.
Culture and Atmosphere: Each assisted living community has its own unique culture and atmosphere. Take the time to visit and experience the community firsthand. Engage with staff members and current residents to gain insights into the overall attitude, friendliness, and sense of community. This information can provide valuable guidance in determining if the community aligns with your social and emotional needs.

Touring and Evaluating Communities

Visiting senior living communities is a crucial step in the decision-making process. Treat this process similar to choosing a house, where multiple visits are recommended to evaluate different options. During these visits, consider the following:

Try Out Amenities: Spend time exploring and trying out various amenities offered by the community. Visit fitness centers, dining facilities, communal areas, and any other facilities that are important to you. Some communities may offer opportunities for overnight stays or access to healthcare services, allowing you to experience the daily life and services provided.
Engage with Residents: Engaging with current residents can provide valuable insights into daily life, services offered, and overall satisfaction levels. Take the opportunity to interact with residents and ask questions about their experiences. This firsthand information can be crucial in understanding if a specific community aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.
Consider Emotional Comfort: Assess whether the community feels comfortable emotionally, physically, and perhaps even spiritually. Reflect on whether the community aligns with your expectations of contentment and enjoyment in the long term. It's important to choose a community that contributes to your happiness and overall quality of life.

By carefully considering the factors mentioned above and taking the time to tour and evaluate different communities, you can make an informed decision about the right assisted living community for yourself or your loved one. Remember to prioritize factors such as location, cost, services, amenities, and overall comfort to ensure a fulfilling and satisfying living experience.

The Continuum of Care

When exploring senior living options, understanding the concept of a continuum of care is essential. The continuum of care in senior living can be likened to a spectrum, offering a range of services and care levels to meet the evolving needs of residents. This section will delve into the importance of the continuum of care and highlight the benefits of life plan communities.

Importance of Continuum

The continuum of care plays a crucial role in senior living communities. It encompasses a comprehensive range of services that cater to various stages of aging and health needs. By providing a continuum of care, senior living communities ensure that residents can seamlessly transition from one level of care to another without the need for relocation. This eliminates the stress and upheaval that can come with moving to a new community as care needs change.

The continuum of care is particularly important because individuals turning 65 today have a 70% chance of needing long-term care services in the future. Having access to a continuum of care within a single community allows residents to age in place, receiving the appropriate level of care and support as their needs evolve. This continuity of care promotes stability, comfort, and peace of mind for both residents and their families.

Life Plan Communities

One type of senior living community that offers a comprehensive continuum of care is a life plan community, also known as a continuing care retirement community. Life plan communities provide a range of services that include independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care, with some also offering additional services like memory support and rehabilitation.

By choosing a life plan community, individuals can have confidence in the fact that their future healthcare needs will be met within the same community. This eliminates concerns about potential future moves to access necessary healthcare services. Life plan communities, such as those offered by Presbyterian Homes, have a defining characteristic of providing a full continuum of care, ensuring residents have the care they may require as they age.

Not all retirement living communities offer a continuum of care, as some may only cater to independent living or assisted living, lacking the full spectrum of care services provided by life plan communities. Choosing a life plan community with a continuum of care eliminates the need to worry about potential future moves to access necessary healthcare services. This provides peace of mind, ensuring individuals can receive the care they require as they age, all within the same supportive community.

The continuum of care provided by life plan communities is a valuable asset for individuals seeking a senior living option that offers a range of services to accommodate changing needs. By selecting a community with a continuum of care, individuals can age in place and receive the appropriate level of care and support throughout their retirement years.

Presbyterian Senior Living

Presbyterian senior living provides older adults with the care they need, a sense of community, and access to religious services to support their faith, recognizing the importance of spirituality and faith for their overall well-being. Presbyterian senior care offers caregiving and services guided by Christ-centered values, allowing older adults to incorporate their faith into daily life, surrounded by like-minded individuals in a nurturing environment that supports both their physical and spiritual well-being.

Faith-Centered Care

Presbyterian-based senior care facilities prioritize faith-centered care, recognizing the importance of religious beliefs to the well-being of their residents. People of all faiths are welcome at Presbyterian-based facilities, where religious components are integrated into daily care. This may include prayer groups, transportation to religious services, and chaplaincy services, creating an environment that respects and supports the religious beliefs of the residents [4].

The faith-centered care approach allows older adults to maintain and strengthen their spiritual connection, providing comfort, guidance, and a sense of purpose. By incorporating faith into their daily lives, residents can find solace, support, and a sense of community in their Presbyterian senior living community.

Cost and Services Comparisons

The cost of Presbyterian housing is generally comparable to other senior care facilities, with factors such as the type of care and location influencing the costs. For example, the median cost for a private room at a nursing home facility is $10,025 per month, while assisted living costs less at $5,511 per month. It's important to note that costs may vary by state and facility.

When considering Presbyterian senior living, it is essential to review the specific services and amenities offered by each facility. While the focus is on faith-centered care, Presbyterian-based senior care facilities also provide a range of other services to support the well-being of their residents. These services may include assistance with daily activities, medication management, housekeeping, transportation, and social and recreational activities.

To make an informed decision, it is advisable to visit and evaluate different Presbyterian senior living communities. This allows you to assess the facilities, meet the staff, and get a sense of the overall atmosphere and community. By comparing the costs, services, and environment of various Presbyterian senior living communities, you can choose the one that aligns best with your needs and preferences.

Presbyterian senior living offers a unique combination of faith-centered care, community, and services to support the well-being of older adults. By integrating faith into daily life and providing a range of services, Presbyterian-based facilities aim to enhance the quality of life for their residents, ensuring that their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are met.