Assisted living is an excellent choice for older adults who want to maintain independence but could use some help with daily routines and personal care. But the question on everyone’s minds—how much will assisted living cost—is what causes many people to rule out this helpful care option.
Still, the cost question is a big one, and the answer depends on a few key factors—like the location of the community, the level of care needed, and the amenities offered. Here, we’ll break down what’s included in assisted living at The Delaney Senior Living, what things might cost extra, and how to plan financially for this next stage of life.
What Does Assisted Living Cost on Average?
According to the 2023 Genworth Cost of Care Survey, assisted living costs, on average, about $4,800 per month. However, that number can range between $3,200 and $6,500 or more, depending on a few factors:
- Location: Costs in metropolitan areas are typically higher than in rural settings. Also, monthly costs can vary greatly by state of residence.
- Apartment size: Studio apartments tend to be more affordable than one- or two-bedroom options.
- Amenities: Extra luxuries such as private dining, salon services, or fitness studios can increase monthly rates.
- Care level: The more personal assistance or medical oversight required, the higher the cost.
For instance, someone who only needs help with light grooming and medication reminders will likely pay less than someone requiring hands-on care several times a day.
What Services Are Included in Assisted Living?
Assisted living communities are designed to provide comfort, safety, and support—without sacrificing independence. Most offer a blend of housing, meals, personal care, and social opportunities. The goal is to ensure residents receive the right level of assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs).
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) include:
- Bathing and personal hygiene support
- Dressing and grooming support
- Assistance with eating
- Toileting support
- Mobility and transferring assistance
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) include:
- Medication reminders
- Light meal preparation or special dietary needs
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Transportation for errands and appointments
- Help with scheduling medical visits
Beyond these essentials, most assisted living communities also include:
- Private, spacious apartments
- Daily meals and snacks
- Life enrichment and wellness programs
- Scheduled transportation
- 24/7 staff with extensive training
- Emergency response systems
These core services are typically bundled into the base monthly rate, though offerings may vary slightly from one community to another.
What Isn’t Included in the Base Cost?
While many services are built into the base monthly rate, certain features or specialized care options may be offered at an additional cost. Always ask for a detailed fee schedule during your visit to ensure full transparency and an understanding of what’s provided.
Common add-on costs may include:
- Diabetes management and insulin administration
- Physical or occupational therapy (via third-party providers)
- Extra personal care support
- Salon or spa treatments
- Incontinence supplies and care
- Private transportation or medical escort services
- Cable, Wi-Fi, and telephone service upgrades
Some communities offer tiered plans or a points-based model that adjusts pricing based on individual needs and care levels.
Ways to Pay for Assisted Living
Navigating financial decisions around these high assisted living costs is complicated—and that makes it feel overwhelming (understandable!). The good news? There are several ways to pay:
- Private Pay: Most residents use personal resources such as retirement funds, pensions or investments, or Social Security benefits.
- Long-Term Care Insurance: If you have a long-term care insurance policy, review it carefully—many cover some or all costs associated with assisted living.
- Veterans Benefits: Veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for the VA Aid & Attendance benefit, which helps offset assisted living expenses.
- Home Sale or Reverse Mortgage: Selling a home or using home equity can help generate funds to cover monthly care costs.
- Medicaid (in limited states): Medicaid coverage for assisted living varies by state. Some states offer waiver programs that help pay for personal care costs within licensed assisted living communities.
Is Assisted Living the Right Choice?
Assisted living might be the right fit if someone:
- Needs support with personal care, meals, or medications
- Feels isolated or unsafe living alone
- Is ready for more social opportunities and community engagement
- Finds managing a household increasingly difficult
Assisted living bridges the gap between independent living and skilled nursing, offering the perfect blend of freedom and support. Many residents find comfort knowing care can be adjusted as their needs evolve.
Discover Life at The Delaney
If you’re beginning to explore assisted living options, The Delaney Senior Living offers a distinctive experience that feels more like home than healthcare. With beautiful residences, engaging programs, and compassionate, personalized care, our communities are designed to support every aspect of well-being—mind, body, and spirit.
Understanding the costs and benefits of assisted living is the first step toward making a confident and informed decision. Want to learn more about life at our communities? Let’s start the conversation today.
