Entering the realm of memory care for a loved one can be an overwhelming journey, filled with numerous considerations, one of which is understanding and navigating additional charges. Memory care communities often offer a range of services beyond basic care, each coming with its associated costs. Here, we’ll explore the realm of additional charges in memory care, providing insights and strategies to help families navigate these expenses with confidence and clarity.
Difference between Base Fee and Additional Fee
Memory care facility costs usually cover essential services like room and board, meals, and basic care. Additional fees may apply for specialized services and amenities beyond the basic level of care, such as medication management, specialized therapies, or enhanced amenities.
In short, additional charges come with additional services. For instance, if a senior wants a physiotherapy session once every week, then he has to pay the additional charges for it.
Understanding Additional Charges:
Memory care communities typically charge a base fee covering essentials like room and board, meals, and basic care services. However, additional charges may apply for specialized services and amenities tailored to meet the unique needs of residents with cognitive impairments. These additional charges can include medication management, specialized therapies, personal care services, and enhanced amenities like private rooms or upgraded meal options.
Navigating Medication Management Charges:
One common additional charge in memory care is medication management. Many residents require help with medication administration, including dosage management, refills, and check-ups for potential side effects. Dementia care communities often employ trained staff members to oversee medication management, and this service typically brings with it an additional fee. Families should inquire about medication management charges and ensure that they understand the facility’s policies and procedures around them.
Exploring Specialized Therapies:
Most of the seniors in memory care need various therapies. Another aspect of memory care that may result in additional charges is specialized therapies tailored to cognitive impairments. These therapies, such as music sessions or physiotherapy, are designed to enhance residents’ cognitive function, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. Memory care communities may offer these therapies as part of their programming, but families should be aware that registering for specialized therapies may incur additional fees.
Understanding Personal Care Services:
Personal care services, such as assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), grooming, bathing, and dressing, are fundamental aspects of memory care. While basic personal care services are typically included in the base fee, residents with more extensive care needs may require and ask for additional assistance, resulting in additional charges. Families should discuss their loved one’s specific care needs with the memory care community and inquire about any potential additional charges for personal care services.
Enhanced Amenities and Services:
Memory care communities may offer enhanced amenities and services beyond basic care, such as private rooms, upgraded meal options, transportation services, or access to recreational activities and social events. While these amenities can enhance residents’ quality of life, they may come with additional charges. Families should carefully review the facility’s fee schedule and inquire about any optional amenities or services that may put additional fees on them.
Strategies for Navigating Additional Charges:
To navigate additional charges in memory care effectively, families should start by thoroughly researching dementia care communities and comparing their fee structures. Ask for a detailed breakdown of fees and inquire about any potential hidden costs or additional charges. Additionally, discuss your loved one’s care needs with the community’s staff and ensure that you understand the scope of services included in the base fee versus those that may incur additional charges.
In some cases, Medicare and Medicaid may cover certain memory care facility costs, depending on the specific services rendered and the eligibility criteria. However, coverage varies, and not all services may be covered. It’s essential to check with Medicare and Medicaid guidelines and the memory care community to determine what additional charges may be covered by them.
Navigating additional charges in memory care can be complex, but with careful planning, research, and communication, families can ensure that their loved ones receive the quality care they deserve without facing unexpected financial burdens. By understanding the types of additional charges that may apply in memory care and exploring the services and amenities offered by different communities, families can navigate the journey of memory care with clarity and confidence.
