When a family is in the process of picking out an assisted living facility for their elderly loved ones, they run the risk of encountering many of the popular myths that always seem to circulate by word of mouth or otherwise. Above all else, the number one myth is the idea that assisted living is too costly an option to consider for people who have grown too old or frail to care for themselves on their own. The cost of assisted living facilities will vary from one place to the next, but the median cost is under $4,000. Also, contrary to popular belief, costs are not skyrocketing. In reality, paying for assisted living could actually end up saving a family money in the long run.

Key Takeaways:

• Assisted living costs vary from place to place, with Alaska costing the highest amounts and Texas costing the lowest overall.
• While assisted living may seem costly for some, it is important to note that hiring someone for full-time in-home care is a lot more expensive.
• Insurance policies, including state ones like Medicaid, will often pay the full costs of moving a loved one into an assisted living facility.

“At the top of our myth list is the common notion that assisted living costs too much to be practical for people who can no longer live alone safely.”