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The true value of assisted living: weighing the cost

If you or a loved one are considering a move to a senior living community, one of the biggest questions is often: Can I afford it?

It's natural to question whether the cost is justified. While assisted living can be expensive, the benefits—such as the amenities, services, and lifestyle it offers—make it a worthwhile investment, particularly when compared to maintaining a home. Let's dive into the costs and value of assisted living.

What is assisted living?

Assisted Living is a form of senior living tailored for seniors that needs personal care and support services.

Cost estimates for assisted living can vary widely based on location and amenities, but research from the National Council on Aging suggests monthly fees range from $1,700 to $4,600.

Understanding the value

When assessing assisted living, the value comes from the comprehensive services and the lifestyle included. These communities offer a resort-like atmosphere with spacious living spaces, concierge services, fitness centers, pools, dining options, and even beauty salons. They’re often pet-friendly too.

Beyond leisure, assisted living provides practical benefits like housekeeping, lawn care, and transportation, reducing the burden of home maintenance. This allows residents more time to enjoy activities and social interactions, something that can be harder to achieve at home.

Furthermore, residents can have peace of mind knowing that one monthly fee covers all these services. assisted living can even save money compared to living independently at home when factoring in all the associated costs—maintenance, utilities, transportation, and more.

Why make the move?

  • One easy, all-inclusive monthly payment
    Instead of juggling multiple bills, your monthly cost typically covers housing, meals, utilities, maintenance, housekeeping and more.
  • No more surprise repairs or upkeep
    You won’t have to worry about home repairs, lawn care, property taxes or insurance — expenses that add up quickly
  • Reduced transportation expenses
    Transportation is provided for outings and events, and can be scheduled for medical appointments, helping you reduce or eliminate car-related expenses.
  • Health care when and where you need it
    With Tanner Health’s support and access to on-site healthcare services, residents can benefit from coordinated care in a familiar setting.
  • Delicious, nutritious meals included
    Say goodbye to grocery lists and meal prep — enjoy chef-prepared meals every day, with menus designed for your health and satisfaction.
  • Fewer bills, fewer worries
    Managing fewer monthly expenses can reduce stress, especially for those dealing with memory or cognitive concerns.
  • Activities that enrich and engage
    From fitness classes and hobby groups to lifelong learning and social events, our lifestyle and activities directors offer something for everyone — with added wellness support from Tanner’s Get Healthy, Live Well initiative.

This worksheet helps you compare your current monthly living expenses with what’s included in a single, predictable fee at The Birches — making it easier to see the full value.

Comparing the costs

By breaking down your expenses at home versus those in an assisted living community, you'll likely find the latter provides a better value.

Living Expenses
(varies by living option)
Current Cost Community Cost
Mortgage / Rental payment $________/mo Included
Homeowner’s Insurance $________/mo Included
Property Taxes $________/mo Included
Grocery Costs $________/mo On-site Dining
Housekeeping / Laundry $________/mo Included
Home Maintenance
(e.g. plumbing, electrical)
$________/mo Included
Lawn Care (e.g. mowing, trimming, etc.) $________/mo Included
Utilities
(varies by living option)
Current Cost Community Cost
Electricity / Gas $________/mo Included
Water $________/mo Included
Internet $________/mo Included
Trash / Waste Services $________/mo Included
Safety
(varies by living option)
Current Cost Community Cost
24-Hour Emergency Monitor $________/mo Included
Automobile expenses
(varies by living option)
Current Cost Community Cost
Car Payment or Transit Fees $________/mo Shuttle
Gas / Oil / Tires $________/mo Shuttle
Vehicle Registration / Licensing $________/mo Shuttle
Auto Insurance $________/mo N/A

Total Monthly Expenses $________/mo $________/mo

Click to download our Senior Living Cost Comparison Sheet

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