Author: Sarah Williams

Reviewed By: Catherine Braxton

How much extra money per month is needed for assisted living varies according to an individual’s lifestyle, preferences and support needs, but the average cost of assisted living in the United States is $4,500 monthly. However, precise fees depend on the facility’s location, amenities and services. 

Services included in assisted living fees

Assisted living fees include room and board, maintenance, tailored support services, daily enrichment activities and communal facilities such as gardens, lounges and libraries. Rates also comprise social services, case management, housekeeping and laundry, and many facilities include scheduled local and medical transportation, utilities and wellness checks as part of the base fee. However, seniors may incur supplemental charges that they must pay from private funds. It’s crucial to check what a facility’s base rate includes, as some communities charge for specialized care services and medication management, while others don’t.

Extra payments for assisted living residents

Common extras include telephone, internet and cable TV. Residents may incur additional charges for accommodating dietary preferences, and many communities have paid refreshment outlets, such as a bistro or cafe, on top of inclusive meal services. Moreover, residents who cook in their private accommodations must cover their grocery bills. Beauty services, such as haircuts and manicures at on-site salons, generally attract additional charges. Many communities bill extra for resident car parking spaces or chartered transportation services. Additionally, although Medicare covers some costs, visiting medical services from podiatrists, dentists, audiologists and ophthalmologists often fall outside monthly assisted living charges.    

Paying for assisted living and supplemental services

There are many ways to pay for assisted living, but all individuals must pay supplemental charges from personal funds. Some seniors receive Medicaid funding through waiver programs to pay for some aspects of assisted living care. The dual Medicare-Medicaid Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly operates in specific regions, reducing qualifying individuals’ out-of-pocket expenses. Veterans should also apply for VA Aid and Attendance benefits or Housebound allowances to help cover care costs.Conversely, older adults who receive no state aid must cover all assisted living expenses using private funds. This includes retirement income, such as pensions, bonds, annuities and Social Security retirement benefits. It also includes savings, rental income, asset sales, reverse mortgage loans and cash advances on life insurance policies. Existing policyholders can use long-term care insurance policies to help reduce their financial liabilities.