Lanham, Maryland, is a small town tucked away in Prince George’s County, a thriving and vibrant area just north of busy Washington, DC. For residents, being in Lanham means having the best of both worlds: quiet, local restaurants as well as quick access to the museums of the nation’s capital. For many who are looking to move to an assisted living community, Lanham is just the right fit.
If you are just beginning your search, here are 10 frequently asked questions that many in your position ask.
1. What is assisted living?
Assisted living communities help residents with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and monitoring medications. Assisted living community staff even help with housekeeping and laundry. Active seniors who just need a little extra support usually find assisted living communities to be a great fit.
2. How do assisted living communities compare with nursing homes?
Nursing homes support seniors who can no longer live independently, providing 24/7 medical attention and support. Many nursing home residents share a room to keep costs low.
On the other hand, assisted living communities are built for seniors with active lifestyles, complete with independent apartments and amenities, and a resort-like feel.
3. What kind of activities do assisted living communities offer?
Assisted living communities are known for their busy calendars, welcoming dining areas, and even concierge-style help with transportation and local tours. Residents can explore new hobbies (for example, taking pottery classes), make trips to local stores with friends, or join in on a fitness class. There are many social, health, and wellness activities to keep you moving. If you want, you will always be busy!
4. What housing options are available?
Most communities have studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments available. Each apartment comes with its own bathroom, kitchenette area, refrigerator, and sink. As a reminder: You’ll also never have to worry about maintenance or upkeep again; it will all be taken care of by the community!
5. Are the apartments furnished?
No, which means your new apartment can be decorated however you like! If you need a hand getting your design juices flowing, check this website out to see some floor plans, which will help you visualize how you might furnish your new space.
6. What does it cost?
It depends. The cost of living can vary depending on your unique situation, the level of amenities offered, the size of the apartment selected, and any other special services you want or need, such as extra transportation or supplies for hobbies.
Therefore, it’s important to sit down and talk with a senior care counselor to get accurate estimates so that you can compare them with your monthly budget. To get started, here’s an easy-to-use tool for comparing the cost of senior living to the cost of living at home.
7. Is there any financial assistance available to help me with costs?
Again, this depends on your personal situation. Though Medicare does not pay for assisted living, veterans’ benefits may be available for certain families, while others may offer long-term care insurance policies that can help with the cost.
Make sure you ask a senior care counselor for any other resources that may be available.
8. Are any of the costs of assisted living tax-deductible?
This also depends on your situation, so check with a tax professional and review some of the guidance provided by the IRS. Some of your assisted living care costs may be tax-deductible.
9. Can I have guests stay overnight?
Yes! Guests may stay over in your apartment or, in some communities, guest rooms that are available for rent.
10. Can I have pets in my assisted living community?
Communities vary in their pet policies and the types of animals that can live with you, although most communities do allow pets. For example, some communities may exclude certain certain breeds of dogs and cats or may have size and weight restrictions. Therefore, it is always best to check with the community during your research phase.
Finding the right place to spend your retirement years is exciting, but it can also be a time of uncertainty. With these FAQs as a foundation, add more that speak to your specific wants and needs and reach out to the communities that you are interested in. Even better, make a visit to Arbor Terrace and talk with one of our senior care counselors. They are uniquely trained to help you and your family make great choices and find your new home.
