Assisted Living Facilities In Alaska

• What Is It?
• Services
• Specialized Care
• vs. Nursing Homes
• Cost
• Payment Options
• When Is It Time?
• Options Near You

Assisted living facilities provide a wide range of services for aging loved ones. These facilities can help older adults complete activities of daily living, known as ADL’s, such as eating, bathing, exercising, and medication management among others.

Assisted living communities are available in every state, including Alaska. They are an excellent living arrangement for older adults that still have some level of independence.

Assisted living homes can provide a safer environment for your aging loved ones. They should be taken into consideration if you want your family members to have a good balance of independence, medical care, and socialization.

For more information about assisted senior living, read on to find out more about:

• the difference between assisted living and nursing homes
• when is the best time to enroll your aging loved one in assisted living homes
• the benefits of senior assisted living

What Is Assisted Living For Older Adults?

Assisted living services will vary slightly depending on the facility. However, most assisted living homes offer the same type of services to help seniors transition from independent living into assisted living. These services can include:

What Services Are Provided in Assisted Living Facilities in Alaska?

Different assisted living homes will offer different services based on the level of care they provide, your aging loved one’s needs, and if they have the proper staffing to offer these services. However, in general, an assisted living home in Alaska can offer:

• meal preparation
• exercise classes
• housekeeping
• routine wellness checks
• medication management and assistance
• transportation services
• toileting assistance
• shopping trips
• outdoor events
• meditation and yoga

Specialized Care at Assisted Living Homes in Alaska

If your loved one is diagnosed with the early stages of a condition such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, it’s best to look for an assisted living facility that can offer some services in memory care.

Memory care is one type of specialized care offered at some assisted living homes. Other specialized care services include assistance for seniors with Parkinson’s disease, terminal illnesses, and mobility issues.

It’s best to contact the facility you are interested in and ask specific questions about their specialized care.

Assisted Living Vs. Nursing Homes in Alaska

Your loved one might need a higher level of care that requires medical monitoring 24/7. If your doctor or another medical professional determines they need nursing staff on-hand at all times, a nursing home will be the best solution.

Nursing homes provide care for serious medical conditions, or if your aging loved one’s health is deteriorating. They still provide meal services, medication management, and socialization, but it is done in a closely monitored environment where seniors do not live independently.

Contact a medical provider to determine if a nursing home is the best option.

Cost of Assisted Living in Alaska

The cost of assisted living facilities in Alaska is higher than the rest of the nation at around $6,000 per month. The average national cost of assisted living is $4,500. This higher cost is due to the remote location of Alaska and the higher costs to transport items into the state.

In Fairbanks, Alaska, the cost is the highest in the state at $6,938.

Paying for Assisted Living in Alaska

Most costs for residential assisted living will need to be paid out-of-pocket. However, there are certain options for coverage that can offset some of the costs to enroll your loved one in an assisted living home.

Medicare

Medicare is the government- and taxpayer-funded health insurance available to seniors and people with disabilities. To qualify, a senior must have paid taxes and worked for at least 10 years. Medicare has two parts, known as Part A and Part B.

Part A of Medicare covers hospitalization, while Part B covers medically necessary expenses, such as medical equipment and part of senior living services. Medicare may not cover the full cost of assisted living but may cover some medical expenses and services.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a federal- and state-funded insurance program that offers assistance to low-income people of all ages. They can help pay for nursing services such as assisted living.

Not everyone qualifies for Medicaid, and not all assisted living facilities will accept Medicare or Medicaid. However, most facilities will accept cash and offer payment plans and options.

Other insurance plans that can help cover the costs of assisted living facilities include private insurance, Medicare advantage plans, and assistance from the Department of Veteran’s Affairs if your loved one is a veteran.

When Is it Time for Assisted Living?

It can be difficult to make the decision to move your loved one to an assisted living facility. However, there are certain signs to look for, including:

• your loved one has suffered a fall
• they are forgetting to take medications
• basic house chores remain incomplete
• they cannot complete activities of daily living on their own
• their mobility is declining
• a medical provider has recommended assisted living
• nearby relatives and friends cannot help provide care

Find an Assisted Living Home in Alaska

For help finding the best assisted living community for your loved one, browse our directory for information. You are not alone when it comes to finding your loved one the best care, we can help.