Assisted Living in Denver

‍Photo by snicky2290 on Pixabay

‍
Navigating the terrain of senior living can be daunting. This guide aims to help you understand the landscape of assisted living in Denver, what to expect, the associated costs, potential financial assistance, top communities, and free resources available.

Understanding Assisted Living

Assisted living facilities provide a supportive, safe and structured environment for seniors who need assistance with daily life activities but still want to maintain a level of independence. These facilities offer a wide range of services including meals, housekeeping, medication management, personal care, and social activities.

In Denver, as with most states, the rules and regulations for assisted living communities are set at the state level. It’s always advisable to contact your local community or the local Area Agency on Aging for the most accurate information.

What to Expect from Assisted Living

Denver’s assisted living communities offer a range of services designed to make life easier for seniors. These services often include:

• Personal Care: Assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and grooming.
• Medical Care: While not medical facilities, most assisted living communities have a nurse on staff and provide medication management.
• Meals and Nutrition: Communities typically provide three meals a day, which are often dietitian-approved.
• Social Activities: These can range from arts and crafts sessions, movie nights, and exercise classes, to field trips and guest speakers.
• Housekeeping and Laundry: To keep residents’ living spaces clean and comfortable.

Cost of Assisted Living

The cost of assisted living in Denver varies, with an average monthly cost of $5,500. This is higher than both the national median of $4,500 and the state average of $4,750. However, costs can range from $4,000 to $8,000 per month depending on the level of care required and the specific community chosen.

When comparing costs, it’s important to consider nearby cities as well. For instance, assisted living costs in Colorado Springs average $4,663 per month, while in Pueblo, the average is $3,800.

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living

For many seniors, the cost of assisted living can be a significant financial burden. However, there are several potential sources of financial assistance:

• Long-Term Care Insurance: If you have a long-term care insurance policy, it may cover some of the costs of assisted living.
• Medicaid: In Colorado, certain assisted living facilities accept Medicaid payments after a “spend-down period.” It’s important to check with individual facilities about their Medicaid policies.
• Veteran’s Benefits: If you’re a veteran, you may be eligible for Aid & Attendance (A&A) benefits which can be used towards the cost of long-term care.
• State Assistance: Colorado offers pension and annuity subtractions for residents over the age of 55.

Top Assisted Living Communities in Denver

There are many high-quality assisted living communities in Denver. Here are a few notable ones:

1. Harvard Square Retirement and Senior Living: Known for its well-maintained facilities and friendly staff.
2. Brookdale Lowry: Noted for its clean environment and supportive staff.
3. Montage Hills: Praised for its dedicated and compassionate staff.
4. The Argyle: Known for its quiet and comfortable environment.
5. Serenity House Assisted Living: Renowned for its small, home-like setting and personalized care.

Free Assisted Living Resources

Several free resources can help you navigate the world of assisted living in Denver. The Colorado Department of Health’s website provides a list of licensed facilities in Denver, including those that are Medicaid Certified. You can also learn about Colorado’s Assisted Living Waiver Programs to understand if you qualify for additional financial assistance.

Assisted Living in the Denver Suburbs

If you’re willing to look outside of downtown Denver, the suburbs offer a wealth of options for senior living. Broomfield, a suburb less than 20 miles north of Denver, boasts several facilities with modern yet cozy interiors. The monthly prices for assisted living in this area start at $2,539, making it a more affordable option than many downtown facilities.

Types of Assisted Living in Denver

Denver offers a variety of assisted living options to cater to diverse needs and budgets:

• Luxury Assisted Living: These communities offer resort-style amenities, beautifully designed living spaces, and chef-prepared meals.
• Traditional Assisted Living: These facilities provide a range of services including meals, personal care, and social activities in a supportive environment.
• Subsidized Assisted Living: These facilities are certified by Health First Colorado and accept Medicaid and other government assistance. They provide the same level of care as traditional assisted living facilities but at a more affordable cost.

Preparing for the Move

Moving into an assisted living facility can be a significant transition. By planning ahead, getting pre-assessed, and rallying support, the move can be made less stressful.

In conclusion, assisted living in Denver offers a range of options to meet diverse needs and budgets. By understanding what to expect, how costs work, and what financial assistance is available, you can find a community that will provide the right level of care and support for you or your loved one.