Senior's Rights in Choosing Where to Live: A Guide for Decision-Making
For seniors, the decision to move into an assisted living facility or an independent senior community is significant. As they prepare for this transition, understanding their rights is essential. This guide explores the rights seniors have when choosing where to live, ensuring a comfortable and dignified transition.
The Same Rights as Anyone Else
Seniors, like anyone else, have the same rights when choosing their place of residence, provided they can afford it. This includes the freedom to make independent decisions about their living arrangements based on their needs, preferences, and financial constraints. Moving into a senior living facility or an independent living community is a personal choice, just like deciding to buy a house or rent an apartment. However, the process involves additional considerations, such as the need to evaluate costs and ensure financial stability.
Personal Experience and Decision-Making
Our family's experience in Asia highlights the importance of consulting with family members when making such decisions. Before retiring, my wife and I worked among Asia's poor, which provided valuable perspective on life and aging. After retirement, we consulted our son about our living arrangements. He helped us choose and furnish our suite in a senior complex in Calgary. This decision was made with the intention of living there until we are no longer able to manage our affairs independently, at which time our children will find a suitable extended care facility for us.
Financial Considerations and Medicaid
When considering moving into an assisted living facility or an independent senior community, financial stability is a critical factor. Seniors should carefully evaluate the costs involved and ensure they can cover the expenses. If assets are insufficient, Medicaid may play a role. In such cases, Medicaid will cover expenses only after the senior's assets have been fully depleted. This means that seniors need to be aware of their savings and how they will be used to pay for their living arrangements.
Conclusion
Seniors have the right to choose where they live, as long as they can afford it. This right includes the ability to make informed decisions based on their individual needs and preferences. It is essential to consider financial factors, including the potential involvement of Medicaid, to ensure a smooth transition into a senior living facility or community. By understanding and exercising these rights, seniors can enjoy a more comfortable and independent life in their golden years.