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Assisted Living In Washington, D.c.

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Find the Best Assisted Living Near Washington D.C.,

Finding assisted living in Washington, D.C., for your loved one can feel like an overwhelming challenge — especially true if you don’t live nearby. Fortunately, there are local care advisors available to help guide you through the process. Their insider’s knowledge of the District of Columbia means they can help you and your family find the perfect assisted living community.

What is the Cost of Assisted Living in Washington D.C.,

According to the 2021 Genworth Cost of Care survey, the average monthly cost of assisted living in Washington, D.C., is currently $6,000. However, the exact cost of assisted living will depend on the type of community you choose, the exact location, and the services and amenities it offers. To learn more about factors that influence senior housing costs.

Washington, D.C., at a Glance

As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is a vibrant, bustling, and culturally diverse metropolis. It is also considered very friendly to members of the LGBTQ+ community. Close to 13% of the population is 65 years and over, and the district provides a number of support services to help senior citizens enjoy an active, fulfilling lifestyle.

Washington, D.C. Weather and Climate

Located in the Mid-Atlantic region on the banks of the Potomac River, Washington, D.C., has a warm and humid maritime climate. Residents typically enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm springs, hot and humid summers, pleasant autumns, and mild-to-cold winters. In the summer, average high temperatures hover in the upper 80s, while the average low temperature for winter is in the upper 20s. That said, the weather can be quite erratic. For example, during the winter, Arctic blasts can hit the area, causing temperatures to plummet dramatically.

Like any major urban area, air quality is an issue in Washington, D.C. For example, the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area ranked #22 for ozone on the American Lung Institute’s 2021 list of most-polluted American cities. This means that older adults with lung or heart conditions might have to limit the amount of time spent on outdoor activities.

Local Hospitals and Notable Medical Care

The District of Columbia is home to many world-class medical centers. Some top hospitals in the area include:

  • Inova Fairfax Hospital: Ranked number one in the region by “U.S. News,” Inova Fairfax Hospital is rated as “high-performing” in a number of medical fields, including geriatrics, diabetes, and cardiology.
  • MedStar Washington Hospital Center: A partner of Georgetown University, MedStar Washington Hospital Center is recognized as among the nation’s top cardiac centers.
  • Virginia Hospital Center: Ranked the number two hospital in the Washington, D.C., region, Virginia Hospital Center has earned recognition for its performance in several specialties — particularly for its work in adult orthopedics.

Transportation

Washington, D.C., is well-known for its robust public transportation system, and it also has plenty of options for taxis and ride-share services. As such, it is possible for seniors to easily move throughout the city and surrounding neighborhoods without having to drive. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) operates a rail and subway system (the “Metro”) as well as an extensive bus system. Discounted fares are available for seniors ages 65 and older. The WMATA also offers the MetroAccess program — a door-to-door paratransit service for individuals who are unable to use regular public transit due to disability.

Arts, Culture, and Recreation

Washington, D.C., is a major tourist destination, so there are attractions and activities for seniors to enjoy throughout the year. For instance, there are the world-famous Smithsonian museums, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, and the National Zoo — all of which operate without an admission fee. During the spring, seniors can stroll around the National Mall to admire the famous cherry blossoms. There is also the District’s vibrant culinary scene to explore or games to catch at one of the city’s many sports venues.

Additional Senior Living Care Advisors near Washington D.C.,

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How Do I Pay for Washington, D.C. Assisted Living?

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Veteran's Benefits

Veteran’s benefits can be an important resource for military veterans, their spouses, or surviving spouses to pay for assisted living. For example, the Aid and Attendance program can help qualified veterans cover the cost of care for assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) like:

  • Personal hygiene
  • Dressing
  • Dining
  • Medication management

Program benefits cover both in-home care and support provided in a community living situation like assisted living.

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Long-Term Care Insurance

Another option to help pay for assisted living in Washington, D.C., is long-term care (LTC) insurance. Unlike standard health insurance policies, long-term care plans are designed to provide for the ongoing personal and medical services needed by many seniors or individuals with chronic medical conditions or disabilities. Most plans will cover ADL support services provided in an assisted living facility — though you should always confirm beforehand with your policy provider.

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Home Equity

Homeowners have a variety of options for turning their homes into a source of funding for assisted living in Washington, D.C. Four of the most common methods are renting the property, selling it outright, applying for a reverse mortgage, or using the property as collateral for a home equity line of credit (HELOC) loan. The exact approach you take will depend on the property and the specific needs of your family.

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Medicare

Medicare does not cover the costs of long-term assistance with activities of daily living, either in-home or at an assisted living facility. However, under certain conditions, Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) can be used to cover short-term medical care. Specifically, it helps cover skilled nursing services (such as rehabilitation) for the first 100 days after a patient is released from hospitalization. Care services can be provided in an assisted living situation, but they must extend past support with ADLs.

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Medicaid

Although it is not a state, Washington, D.C., does have a Medicaid program that offers Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) for qualified residents. This program can be used to help seniors pay for the costs of care in assisted living communities. However, it is important to note that benefits only apply to care services. Individuals are still responsible for room and board expenses at the facility.

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Care assessment tool

Access our free senior care assessment tool, which can help you evaluate the specific needs and requirements of you or your loved one. By answering a series of questions, you’ll receive personalised recommendations and insights to aid in the decision-making process.

Take the Assessment

FAQ About Assisted Living in Washington D.C.,

While many assisted living communities in Washington, D.C., allow pets, not all of them do. Your local senior living advisor will be able to help you find properties that will welcome your four-legged friend.

Yes, many communities offer virtual tours. A local senior living advisor can also help arrange a personalized tour and help you evaluate the facility.

Assisted living residences in Washington, D.C., are regulated by the city’s health department.

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