The Fine Print

Congratulations, you’ve picked an Assisted Living or Memory Care community! Now get ready for some paperwork…. Fortunately, senior communities here in Texas make it as easy as possible for new residents and their families. But there is some fine print. 

Here’s what you need to know:

Community Fee

Every community will ask for an upfront, non-refundable community fee. This can cover the time required to complete assessments, gather paperwork, and prepare a room for a new resident. When communities run “specials,” they might offer a discounted fee or allow the payments to be broken up over 2-3 months.

Monthly Fee

This is your base room rate, which includes rent, utilities, meals, housekeeping, and laundry. It may also include cable or Wi-Fi plus transportation to/from doctor’s appointments.

Care Fees

After an assessment, the community will determine what level of care a resident requires. Care includes assistance with all Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), like showering, dressing, medication management, and toileting. At the lowest levels, the care will just be reminders. Mid levels will be stand-by assists – for example, a caregiver in the apartment while a resident showers. High levels include hands-on care, assistance with transferring, and full incontinence support.

Annual Increases

As the cost of living increases, so does the cost of care and paying good caregivers. The annual increases may happen at the beginning of a new calendar year or on the anniversary of a resident’s move-in. Always ask what the previous year’s increase was and what they expect for the upcoming year. 

Breaking the Lease

In the event that a resident needs to move to a higher level of care or a different community, the typical notice period is 30 days. 

 

Questions? Call us on (512) 574 0910