How Much Does Assisted Living Cost in Alabama?
If you’re searching for assisted living in Alabama, then start here!
It’s estimated that over 810,000 people in the US reside in assisted living facilities. This generally includes seniors who need help with personal care or are showing signs of declining health; those who need help with some things – just not round-the-clock care. Over half of all assisted living residents are aged 85 years or older. If you or a loved one have decided that it’s time to transition to this type of care, it can be useful to know what to expect. So, here is everything you need to know about the cost of assisted living in Alabama!
- What is assisted living?
- About Alabama…
- How much does assisted living cost in Alabama?
- What determines the cost of assisted living in Alabama?
- How much does assisted living cost compared to other senior care options in Alabama?
- How to pay for assisted living in Alabama
- Need help finding assisted living?
- Need something else?
What is assisted living?
Assisted living is a long-term care option for older adults who would benefit from some extra care, but don’t quite need a medical facility. This type of senior housing combines caregiving and independence in a home-like setting. Senior residents are able to stay active and social with help and support from staff. Common features to look for in an assisted living facility are:
- A variety of services including things like housekeeping, home maintenance, and transportation
- 24-hour emergency care
- Personal care assistance
- Transferring assistance
- Supervision
- Well checks
- Multiple prepared meals per day
- A variety of amenities including things like fitness centers, worship centers, and on-site salons
- And many, many more…
About Alabama…
Alabama, also referred to as the Yellowhammer State, is located in the southeastern region of the US. Known for its fried green tomatoes and boiled peanuts, this southern state has a comfortably warm climate and a landscape full of waterways and forests. Alabama is home to numerous historical landmarks, including many from the Civil Rights Movement. The U.S.S. Alabama and U.S. Rocket and Space Center are common tourist attractions.
Compared to the rest of the US, Alabama’s cost of living is around 17.7% lower than the national average (according to Best Places). It has a population of around 5 million people, over 17% of which are aged 65 and older.
How much does assisted living cost in Alabama?
The national average cost of assisted living is just over $4,500 per month (Genworth Cost of Care Survey). Though the actual cost will vary by facility and services offered, the average monthly cost in Alabama is $3,503.
What determines the cost of assisted living in Alabama?
The overall cost of an assisted living community will greatly depend on how many services and which types you will need. Someone who needs very little assistance can expect to have a lower monthly bill than someone who needs lots of hands-on care. Also, factors like floor plans and meal services will affect the price, as well as the staff-to-resident ratio.
There are typically two ways assisted living is charged: a la carte and all-inclusive.
An a la carte bill will be itemized. It usually includes monthly rent (room and board), care service fees, medication management, medical assistance, and other housekeeping or repair services. Charges for some recreational activities may also show up here.
All-inclusive is exactly how it sounds. There will be one monthly fee that covers rent and all amenities and services you may use. However, with this type of billing, sometimes the extent to which some services can be used is capped.
How much does assisted living cost compared to other senior care options in Alabama?
Let’s take a look at assisted living costs in Alabama compared to other senior care options:
| Type of Care | National Average Monthly Cost | Alabama Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Assisted Living | $4,500 | $3,503 |
| Homemaker Services | $4,957 | $3,813 |
| Home Health Aide | $5,148 | $3,851 |
| Adult Day Health Care | $1,690 | $758 |
| Nursing Home, Semi-Private Room | $7,908 | $6,676 |
| Nursing Home, Private Room | $9,034 | $7,026 |
How to pay for assisted living in Alabama
Besides personal savings, those who live in Alabama have several possibilities that can help pay if and when it’s time for long-term care!
Long-Term Care Insurance
Traditional health insurance rarely pays for costs associated with long-term care. Help with daily activities and mobility are a pretty big part of receiving long-term care. So, that’s where long-term care insurance can help. It can cover custodial care, meal services, housekeeping services, and yes, assisted living facilities.
Veteran Benefits
The VA will cover the cost of many services under standard health benefits.
To see a full list of long-term care services and to apply for assistance, check out these resources:
Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs
US Department of Veterans Affairs – Montgomery Regional Office
Medicare
It’s no secret that Medicare doesn’t pay for long-term care, so don’t count on it to flip your bill for rent. However, under the right circumstances, assisted living residents can still use it in other ways. Here’s how:
If you receive any medically necessary skilled nursing care while in assisted living, it may be covered by Original Medicare (Parts A & B). Treatments such as daily injections, IV therapy, or wound care are examples. Also, if you ever find yourself in the hospital for inpatient care, Medicare coverage can be used.
Your Medicare Advantage Plan most likely won’t pay for any custodial care. But, it will pay for some skilled nursing, prescription medications, and even emergency services. Check your health plan for specific info!
Medicare Part D will pay for prescription medication, even while residing in assisted living! Check out Medicare.gov for more info!
For Medicare help in Alabama, visit these resources:
Alabama Medicare & Insurance Counseling
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Alabama FAQ
Related: Assisted Living Vs Nursing Homes: What’s The Difference?
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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 Alabama, visit these resources:
State Assistance
Many states will offer additional assistance outside of Medicaid. Check these resources to find more help in your area:
Alabama Department of Senior Services
Need help finding assisted living?
Assisted living may be the perfect option for seniors who don’t want to trade their active or independent lifestyle for ADL assistance. But, choosing a new place to live is an important decision – so, you may want a little help! If you’re looking for assisted living in Alabama, then start with the Senior Resource Alabama Assisted Living Directory!
Or, if you’re moving somewhere else, then check out our resources by state!
To learn more about assisted living, click here.
Need something else?
Whether it’s time for a change, or you’re just doing some research, we can help! At SeniorResource.com, we believe in the empowerment of older adults and their caregivers through knowledge. But, we also understand that at this juncture of life, time is your most valuable asset. So, why waste it doing another internet search? Senior Resource is your one-stop spot for all things retirement. We do the work and find all the facts, just so you don’t have to!
SeniorResource.com exists to provide aging adults, retirees, and caregivers with applicable, and educational content, relevant to the over 55 community. As such, we address topics like senior housing, nursing care, and aging-in-place.
Looking for more great articles? Then start here!
Do you want to learn more about senior housing? Then read all about it here!
Need help with retirement planning? Then check out Bob Carlson’s Retirement Watch!
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Originally published May 27, 2022
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