Assisted living communities have different advantages to offer your loved one. It allows them to focus on themselves since these communities will handle all responsibilities. Even when your loved one only needs minimal assistance, it is recommended to move them into the community to improve their well-being.
However, what happens when the cost becomes unbearable and caregivers struggle to make the monthly payment? These communities can sometimes be expensive, depending on the location and level of service needed. This is why people often ask if these costs are negotiable. If you are in this situation, below is the cost of assisted living in Tampa, FL, and how you can make it more affordable:
Cost of Assisted Living in Tampa, FL
One of the best places to retire in Florida is Tampa. The city is small but hosts different attractions like restaurants, beaches, and businesses. It is closer to most of Central Florida’s theme parks, like Walt Disney World, which is just an hour’s drive from Tampa. Regarding retirement, there are several options, like assisted living communities, memory care centers, and independent living.
An exciting thing about this location is that the prices of these retirement communities are affordable. The average monthly cost of an assisted living community in Tampa is around $3,000 for a private suite. This is lower than the national median cost; around $3,700. So you don’t need to move your loved ones to a new community once they start needing assistance with daily activities.
Is Assisted Living Negotiable?
Considering the cost of assisted living communities, many primary caregivers often ask whether negotiation options exist. The cost of these retirement communities is not set in stone, so it is negotiable. However, it is not always the same in all communities. These are ways to make the cost of assisted living more affordable:
Leverage Price Discounts
Many things determine whether a community will be negotiable, part of which include location and timing. Some communities might offer your loved one a discount in some seasons due to a low occupancy rate.
Consider Shared-Space Suites
Many assisted living communities offer shared suites, which are always more affordable than single suites. Although, many aging adults might not want this option since they might prefer their private space. Having a roommate not only helps cut costs but also promotes safety and helps prevent loneliness.
Benefit Programs For Low-Income Aging Adults
Another option to make assisted living communities affordable is to check whether your loved one is eligible for some benefit programs. They may receive funds or other assistance through these programs to cover assisted living costs.
According to the National Council on Aging, there are different benefit programs to assist low-income aging adults in saving on retirement community expenses.
Ask For Entrance Fee Waiver
In most assisted living communities, aging adults must always pay an entrance fee. Depending on the community, it can be expensive or affordable. Irrespective of the amount, it does not guarantee your loved one an apartment in the retirement community. Therefore, the fee is always open for negotiation. You can also agree with the community to waive the fee entirely for your loved one.
The best time to negotiate a waiver is when the community has a high vacancy rate. During this season, the community will do anything to increase its occupancy rate.
