Housing and healthcare is different today than how it was in the past for seniors. They are now facing this reality and how to overcome it.

Interesting Facts about Senior Living

The following facts may surprise you about senior living:

Fact 1: Seniors are Living Longer than Ever

With innovations in healthcare and a focus on prevention, seniors are living longer and more active and healthy lives. Also, the gender gap is closing with woman less than 5 years longer than men.

Fact 2: Different Varieties of Senior Living are Arising

There is an increase in the number of seniors requiring care. This has lead to a greater need for diverse and patient-centered eldercare that can adapt and modify with a person’s changing needs as they age.

Fact 3: The Average Person in Senior Care is an Independent Female

The typical assisted living resident is a female living with a chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure or osteoporosis. She is likely to be mobile, in her late 80’s, and mostly independent. Only requiring minor assistance like help with bathing, dressing, or eating.

Fact 4: Eldercare with Specializations is Increasing

Alzheimer’s disease and dementia need specialized care needed dedicated support and special considerations.  It is estimated that the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease will nearly triple to 14 million by the year 2050.

Fact 5: Long-term Care Can Be Costly and Families Aren’t Prepared

One in four people aged 45 and older are not prepared financially if they suddenly required long-term care for an indefinite period of time. By the time people reach their senior years, nearly one in five will incur more than $25,000 in out-of-pocket care costs. 83% of primary caregivers contributed financially during a long-term care situation, which equaled an average cost of $8,800 for out-of-pocket care expenses.

Fact 6: More People are Turning to Home-Based Care

Skilled nursing facilities are expensive, so people are starting to turn to getting care in their home. Home-based care is a cost-effective alternative. 80% of seniors are receiving assistance in their private home. Despite the trend toward community-based care as opposed to institutionalized care, only 18.2% of long-term care expenditures for the elderly are for community-based care.

Fact 7: Buying Your Home May Not Be Financially Smart

Seniors wish to stay in their own home as long as possible. Although, owning your own home and the costs that come along with it might not be the best financial option. Ongoing home maintenance costs include, $10,000 to replace a furnace, $25,000 to maintain lawn care, replacing windows can cost $11,000, and replacing composite shingles can cost around $20,000.

Fact 8: The Best Prevention Method is Staying Active

Staying active is the best prevention, even if you’ve been inactive all your life. When it comes to senior living, one thing is for sure: staying active is the best way to maintain good health and independence. Seniors who do any amount of exercise appear to live longer and have a lower risk of disability. For most of us, it is not too late. Even if you have never led an active lifestyle before, the benefits of exercise were experienced by those who began exercising between ages 70 and 85.

Reno Valley Assisted Living and Retirement Community

Reno Valley is an assisted living and retirement community that makes living independently, while at the same time feeling safe and secure, a reality. We strive to provide the best quality of life for all residents including those suffering from loneliness and depression.

We offer a comprehensive activity program that includes both physical and social activities to encourage emotional well-being. Our staff is trained to assist those with depression. If you or a loved one are considering assisted living, contact Reno Valley today to learn more about our services or tour our community.