In the last edition of Senior Sense, we considered staying in our family homes as we age. For many, adapting a home to changing needs presents too much work and expense.
Some older adults decide to sell their family home and put the proceeds toward a new lifestyle. Especially if longtime friends, neighbors and beloved family members have moved out of the area, this can be a desirable choice.
Independent living communities are popping up across the United States. Prices vary by location and community. Fernley has no independent living communities; in Reno and Carson City, monthly costs range widely, starting at around $3,500.
This could be an especially good choice for healthy older adults who are social by nature. Depending on the community, rent may include housekeeping, utilities, some meals and local transportation. Many also offer a full calendar of social activities to enjoy with new neighbors.
For those considering selling their home because they need help with daily activities, an assisted living community may be an option.
Fernley Estates is elegant, impeccably clean and, as the name suggests, right here in town. During my visit, the atmosphere was warm, welcoming and friendly, with kind, respectful and efficient staff ready to help. One resident described it as “like living on a cruise ship.”
Residents range in age from 65 into their 90s. The community offers 50 units, including studios, deluxe studios, and one- and two-bedroom apartments. Each has a private bathroom and kitchenette. Residents bring their own furniture to create a familiar, comfortable apartment decorated to their taste.
Abby Ferguson’s official title is sales and marketing director. She could easily be called Fernley Estates’ goodwill ambassador. She clearly believes in the mission and cares deeply about the residents, their families and her coworkers.
During the tour, Ferguson proudly pointed out the community’s amenities. She said the monthly apartment rate includes three meals a day with menu choices, utilities, housekeeping, laundry service, local transportation and a variety of entertainment options. Residents enjoy movie nights, card clubs, crafts, visiting musicians and entertainers, field trips, holiday events, discussion groups and more. Monthly apartment rates start at around $4,500.
Assistance with personal care carries an additional charge. According to Ferguson, Fernley Estates has eight levels of care, determined through a point system. Level One is for residents who need minimal assistance, with higher levels reflecting more extensive needs. Care costs increase accordingly.
Families should ask what services each level includes, how residents are reassessed and what circumstances could require a move to another care setting. The availability of additional assistance can provide reassurance, but it is important to understand the community’s limits.
Fernley Estates also has a 16-bed memory care unit. For families of residents living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, having memory care on-site may provide an option if their loved one’s needs change. Families should ask about availability, admission requirements and additional costs.
According to Ferguson, Fernley Estates does not accept Medicaid.
The monthly costs are substantial. Still, when comparing options, it helps to consider the expenses that may be replaced by the apartment rate: meals, utilities, home repairs and yard maintenance.
No need to replace that washer or dryer. And the roof? Not their problem.
For those who sell their homes, property taxes and homeowners insurance on that property also go away. Owning and maintaining a car may become optional.
That does not mean assisted living will cost the same as staying home. The comparison depends on current household expenses, the apartment selected and the amount of personal care needed.
Taking Social Security, pensions, savings and proceeds from a home sale into account may make a move possible. The important question is whether those resources can cover both today’s costs and potential increases in care expenses.
If you are considering independent or assisted living, do your homework. Compare what is included in the monthly rate, what costs extra and how fees may change. Options in Reno and Carson City may also be worth exploring.
In the next installment of this series, we will look at Golden Years Castle Homes-Fernley and a variety of services available to Fernley’s older adults.
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