2024 Chicago Assisted Living Costs
In the United States, over 810,000 seniors reside in assisted living communities. These communities typically serve older adults who require assistance with daily activities but don’t necessitate around-the-clock care. Often, residents exhibit signs of declining health or simply need help with some daily tasks. Notably, more than half of all assisted living residents are over 85 years old. If you or a loved one have decided that it’s time to transition to this type of senior housing, it can be useful to know what to expect. So, here’s everything you need to know about the cost of assisted living in Chicago, Illinois.
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is a care option for older adults who need some help with daily activities but don’t require the full-time medical care provided by a nursing home. It offers a balance between independence and support in a home-like setting.
Residents typically live in private apartments or studios. Staff members are available to assist with tasks like:
- Housekeeping and home maintenance
- Transportation to appointments or errands
- 24-hour emergency response
- Personal care assistance, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management
- Transferring assistance, if needed
- Supervision for safety
- Regular wellness checks
Many communities also provide:
- Multiple daily meals prepared on-site
- A variety of amenities, such as fitness centers, on-site salons, and religious services
About Chicago, Illinois
Chicago, Illinois, is a thriving city known for its breathtaking architecture, deep history, and buzzing cultural scene. Must-see attractions include Millennium Park, featuring the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (“The Bean”), Navy Pier with its lively shops and restaurants, and the world-class museums lining Michigan Avenue. Celebrated for its hardworking spirit and friendly Midwestern charm, Chicago offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. With a population exceeding 2.7 million (over 10% are residents over the age of 65), this energetic city embodies the resilience and welcoming character of Illinois.
2024 Chicago Assisted Living Costs
The national average cost of assisted living is just over $5,350 per month. Though the actual cost will vary by facility and services offered, the average monthly cost in Chicago is $6,500.
What Determines the Cost of Assisted Living in Chicago?
Understanding the cost structure of assisted living facilities and their billing practices is pretty straightforward once you know what factors influence pricing and the types of payment options available.
The costs primarily depend on the level of care required. Other elements affecting prices include floor plans, dining services, and the staff-to-resident ratio.
Billing
Facilities may use an a la carte option, similar to selecting services from a menu. With a la carte payment, residents pay for their choices only, which can include monthly rent, care services, medication management, medical assistance, housekeeping or maintenance, and recreational activities.
Alternatively, some facilities provide an all-inclusive billing method, where one monthly fee covers all. Keep in mind that with this type of billing, there might be usage limits for certain offerings.
How Much Does Assisted Living Cost Compared to Other Senior Care Options in Chicago?
Let’s take a look at assisted living costs in Chicago compared to other senior care options:
| Type of Care | National Average Monthly Cost | Chicago Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Assisted Living | $5,350 | $6,500 |
| Homemaker Services | $5,720 | $5,720 |
| Home Health Aide | $6,292 | $6,578 |
| Adult Day Health Care | $2,058 | $2,123 |
| Nursing Home, Semi-Private Room | $8,669 | $8,669 |
| Nursing Home, Private Room | $9,733 | $11,863 |
How to Pay for Assisted Living in Chicago
Long-Term Care Insurance
Traditional health insurance plans typically don’t cover the costs associated with long-term care, which includes assistance with daily activities and mobility needs. Long-term care insurance does. However, it doesn’t come cheap.
Veteran Benefits
For veterans, the VA provides coverage for many services as part of standard health benefits.
For a comprehensive list of long-term care services and how to apply for help, explore the following resources:
VA Nursing Homes, Assisted Living, and Home HealthCare
Veterans Service Organizations – Chicago Regional Office
Medicare
- Original Medicare (Parts A & B): If you need skilled nursing care while in assisted living, such as daily injections, IV therapy, or wound care, Original Medicare may cover it. Additionally, if you’re admitted to the hospital for inpatient care, you can use your Medicare coverage.
- Medicare Advantage Plan: This plan typically does not cover custodial care. However, it does cover certain skilled nursing services, prescription medications, and emergency services. For detailed information, review your specific health plan.
- Medicare Part D: Even while living in an assisted living facility, Medicare Part D covers prescription medications. For more details, visit Medicare.gov.
For additional help and information on Medicare, consider exploring these resources:
Chicago.gov – Medicare and Open Enrollment Information
Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps low-income individuals pay for care. It can help with the cost of both custodial and medical care. Every state has different qualification requirements.
For eligibility and enrollment in Illinois, visit these resources:
Illinois Healthcare and Family Services
Other Resources in Chicago
Chicago.gov – Insurance Counseling for Seniors
Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP)
Senior Health Insurance Program – Illinois Department on Aging
Popular Articles About Chicago and Illinois
Popular Articles About Assisted Living
Originally published May 02, 2024
Author(s):
