Assisted living communities are typically privately funded, although some states allow the use of Medicaid funds to cover the costs. When comparing the cost of assisted living in different cities in New York, seniors will find a wide range of prices. The Assisted Living Program is a state program for eligible seniors to help pay for assisted living expenses. For those who don't qualify for other types of financial assistance, there are still ways to make assisted living affordable.
Many adult children have questions about whether their parents are suitable for assisted living and if they will be able to live alone. Assisted living communities may offer some medical services, but they are mainly intended to provide assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) to older people with minor to moderate health needs, and are licensed as such. The New York MLTC program exemption and the New York Assisted Living Program are designed for seniors who require a level of care that would normally be provided in a nursing home, but who prefer to live in an assisted living facility. Below are some of the most common strategies used by older people who can't afford assisted living out of pocket.
Nonprofit organizations and government entities in New York offer free and low-cost resources to seniors to improve their access to support services that allow them to stay active and maintain their independence. The state's Medicaid system can also help cover care in an assisted living facility for those who qualify for the Assisted Living Program. An assisted living community typically provides three meals a day, laundry and cleaning services, scheduled activities and outings, apartment-type housing options, assistance with ADLs, and wellness programs. Assisted living is for older people who can live alone but choose not to or need a little help every day.
Licensed assisted living communities are regulated by the State Department of Health, and all communities in The Bristal Assisted Living are licensed communities.