Debbie If you ever find yourself stranded in the wild, knowing how to start a fire and what plants are edible will ensure your survival. The same goes for knowing how to deal with aging.
The monthly median cost of assisted living in Missouri is more than $1,000 less than the national average. However, costs vary by city.
Costs
Families seeking elderly care Missouri can take advantage of the state’s affordable costs. Assisted living costs, on average, around $3,000 per month and provides room and board for seniors, while home health care and adult day care cost about $4,367 per month for families that need 40 hours of service each week.
Elderly individuals who need assistance with basic activities of daily living might qualify for a Medicaid waiver that helps pay for services at their homes or in residential care facilities. These programs offer more independence for people who can’t live alone but aren’t ready to move into a nursing home.
Seniors can also receive support at the local level through one of ten area agencies on aging. These agencies have a staff dedicated to helping families find the right care. They can help with things like finding home health aides, and they may even be able to refer you to an elder law attorney.
Legal Issues
It’s important for elderly adults to understand their rights regarding home care, assisted living, and nursing homes. They may need help navigating the complex legal issues involved in this process, including income security, health care, long-term care, nutrition, housing, utilities, and protection from financial exploitation.
The state of Missouri has ten Area Agencies on Aging that assist seniors. These local offices are a great resource, especially for those needing home health care services.
Missouri regulates both Assisted Living Facilities and Residential Care Facilities (RCFs) similarly, though there are some differences between the two types of facilities. The state also protects seniors against financial exploitation through a program called MOSAFE. In addition, the state has a Long-Term Care Ombudsman office that works to protect residents in ALFs by investigating complaints and advocating for them. The ombudsman also coordinates a network of volunteers that visit ALFs to offer advocacy and field any concerns from residents.
Insurance
With a comfortable Midwestern climate and cost of living about 20% less than the national average, Missouri is an attractive destination for aging adults. As a result, the state has about 1 million residents aged 65 and over. This number is expected to rise significantly over the next ten years, increasing demand for home health care.
While Medicare and health insurance will pay for some types of Missouri elderly care, they will not cover all expenses. That’s why many people invest in long-term care (LTC) insurance.
If you’re in the market for an LTC insurance policy, compare quotes from several companies. You can also get personalized advice by visiting a local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). Typically, the AAA will be free of charge and will take the time to understand your specific circumstances. In addition, you may be eligible for a federal tax deduction on your premiums.
Options
When it comes to elderly care, there is a wide range of options. Many elderly individuals use in-home care services, including medical and nursing assistance and help with errands and chores. These services are often much less expensive than residential care facilities or nursing homes.
Assisted living facilities and memory care facilities are also available. These facilities are more structured and may offer apartment-style accommodations or single- to double-occupancy bedrooms. These facilities are typically able to provide more extensive medical support than home healthcare services.
A person seeking senior care options should visit a local Area Agency on Aging office for free information and resources. The office can also help someone locate long-term care insurance policies and programs. The state offers many home-based and community service waivers, such as the Independent Living Waiver, to help seniors pay for care.
