For many seniors, aging in place means the ability to stay in their own home instead of moving to a nursing home or other long-term care location. While staying at home might sound like a cost-saving measure, there are often hidden expenses associated with aging in place. The first cost that many people think about when considering in-home care is the expense associated with professional services. According to Genworth Financial's Cost of Care Survey, the average cost of in-home care nationally in 2018 was $4,000 to $4,200 per month. That equates to an hourly rate of around $21 to $22, and the total cost of care obviously depends on how many hours you'll be paying for. There are also other costs to factor in such as transportation, home maintenance, food, security, and more.

One option for seniors who want to remain as independent and comfortable as possible while also availing themselves of professional assistance and cutting some of the costs of aging at home is assisted living. The average cost of senior living communities across the country is on par with the cost of in-home care before you add in the hidden expenses above, and since meals, maintenance and amenities are included in senior independent living and assisted living costs, there are no surprises.

• Keep Your Financial Independence with No Large Entrance Fee
• Worry-Free Living
•  Restaurant Style Dining with Chef-Prepared Meals
• Gathering Spaces, Gardens, and Interests to Explore
• Personalized Approach to Care

Many seniors postpone their move to a senior living community because they worry that the monthly expense won't fit into their budget. It's true that quality senior living may initially appear expensive; however, over time it may actually cost less than staying in your own home. Let's explore 10 common myths about the cost of senior living, so you can weigh the pros of residing in a community with the benefits of aging at home.

1. Brightview communities have no large entrance fee
2. Monthly-rental communities help keep residents in control of assests
3. Food is included in the monthly fee
4. Shuttle Transportation is complimentary
5. Reasonable and predictable rate increases
6. In-home care can be utilized in Brightview communities
7. Have your own apartment or share one to manage costs
8. Diverse selection of programs and activities are included in monthly fee
9. No more home repair costs or upkeep

When aging adults require around-the-clock care, they often remain in their own homes with help from family and friends. Unfortunately, many loved ones jump into their caretaker roles before realizing the physical, emotional, and financial demands involved. Along with potentially investing thousands of unpaid hours into their loved one's care, the average family caregiver also racks up nearly $7,000 in out-of-pocket expenses per year.

Respite care for seniors is temporary, short-term care that occurs when a primary caregiver is unavailable. Respite care is also an option for seniors who typically care for themselves without help but need some extra assistance while recovering from surgery or a medical condition.

Seniors who receive respite care at a senior living facility can take advantage of the same perks long-term residents enjoy, such as chef-crafted meals, exercise classes, crafts, and game nights. They can also meet new friends and keep in touch with them after their stay ends. In addition, it can be a great opportunity for the family to see if a senior living community would be a great long-term option.

Our exclusive SPICE in Motion program helps mobility and outlook

Residents who exercise at least three days a week enjoy a better quality of life. Studies show that regular exercisers experience fewer falls, improve their mobility, stay mentally sharp, spend less time in the hospital, and feel more positive and engaged in life.

That's why we include our innovative SPICE in Motion program at no additional fee. SPICE in motion builds on Brightview's ongoing wellness efforts, incorporating five holistic elements of wellness efforts, incorporating five holistic elements of wellness – Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Cultural, and Emotional – and uses a blend of programs to create meaningful, healthy, stimulating and positive lifestyles.

UNLIKE OTHER WELLNESS PROGRAMS, SPICE IN MOTION IS BUILT AROUND OUR RESIDENTS

SPICE in Motion begins by identifying your exercise interests, health risks, functional needs, and life satisfaction by conducting fitness and activity surveys. Led by certified professional Fitness Specialists, our one-hour classes include a warm-up, cardiovascular exercise, strength and power exercise, static and dynamic balance activity, and cool down. We incorporate weights, bands, exercise balls, and brain games into the classes.

Each month, our health and wellness talks cover topics such as "Preventing Falls and Improving Balance," "How to Get a Better Night's Sleep," and "Living with Joy and Happiness."

What is Bright Minds?

Bright Minds is a collection of Brightview community offerings that are designed to improve the overall brain health and cognitive function of our residents. With Bright Minds, we focus on creating and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits – from increased exercise, social interaction, and healthy eating to managing chronic health conditions to keep you active, and your brain healthy.

Mind & Music has Three Key Components

1) MUSIC TO EVERYONE

With Sonos® Sound Systems, the full benefits of Mind & Music™ reach Wellspring Village® neighborhoods’ common spaces. Associates can use music to enhance group activities, help calm and redirect frustrated residents or facilitate socialization through sing-alongs, dancing, and discussions. For example, music in the dining room during meals will help to drown out background noise and add an ambiance and uniqueness to the experience.

2) PORTABLE, PERSONALIZED PLAYLISTS

Brightview Senior Living provides headphones, smart devices, and Amazon Music® in all Wellspring Village® neighborhoods. With this technology, associates create a personalized playlist for each resident featuring the person’s favorite songs, musicians, and genres to produce their own brand of musically inspired peace and happiness whenever – and wherever – they wish.

3) CREATIVE EXPRESSION THROUGH MUSIC

Each Wellspring Village® team collaborates with local musicians and certified music professionals who are talented in harnessing a person’s abilities to create music. Programs might include drum circles, singing, and music relaxation groups.

HEALING BENEFITS OF MUSIC

The healing benefits of music are scientifically proven, and a melody’s ability to communicate with our conscious and unconscious minds make it an exceptionally effective tonic for people in even the most advanced stages of dementia.

With Mind & Music™, we make each Wellspring Village® dementia care neighborhood a brighter, more joyful, and harmonious place for people with dementia to live!