Your Guide to Costs of Independent Living in Shreveport
The Glen – May 2024
What exactly does your money go toward when you choose to live in a retirement community? We have a breakdown that can demonstrate how living in a senior community might be less expensive than living at home.
As you begin your search for independent living in Shreveport-Bossier, you must first understand your financial goals and budget. A move to a retirement community can seem expensive at first, but when you sit down to compare the costs of a community to the bills you pay living at home, you might be pleasantly surprised to see that you’ll be trading in many bills for one, simplified payment monthly that may even be less than what you pay now. We elaborate on this and more in this guide to costs of independent living.
What Is Included in Independent Living Costs?
When you choose independent living in Shreveport, you are paying for a low-maintenance lifestyle with access to perks, services, and amenities that make life more convenient as well as help you meet your wellness goals. While each retirement community is different, there are some similarities when it comes to what your monthly fees cover.
Rent
Your monthly fee covers rent, and often includes maintenance visits as well as some utilities. Be sure to double-check with the communities you are touring to discover what utilities, such as garbage removal, electricity, and wifi, are covered.
Housekeeping and Laundry Services
In addition to your fees going toward the upkeep of the shared spaces in the community, many retirement communities also offer a set schedule for housekeeping visits to your individual apartment. Laundry and linen services can also be included in the monthly assessment.
Landscaping and Other Maintenance
Monthly costs also include landscaping and maintenance of outdoor shared spaces, such as walking trails, gazebos, and patios.
Access to Gym and Swimming Pools
Many independent living communities feature a state-of-the-art gym with equipment that residents can use at no cost, as well as a swimming pool. Be sure to check to see what amenities are available to you as well as if personal training sessions are also covered or if those are available at an additional cost.
Activities and Events
Retirement communities are hubs of social activity! Most feature a calendar of events that are designed to allow residents to pursue a favorite hobby, learn something new, or connect with neighbors. In many cases, events are covered by the monthly fee. The life enrichment coordinator will make you aware when there are costs for events and activities. For example, you might need to purchase a ticket to the museum or supplies for an art workshop.
Access to Other Amenities and Services
Amenities and services such as transportation to and from planned activities and concierge assistance are typically offered to residents for no additional fee.
Dining
Retirement communities often feature multiple dining options for residents to choose from, with some options being included in the monthly fee.
Comparing to Your Costs at Home
Your monthly fee at an independent living community in Shreveport goes a long way! Your payment each month gives you access to amenities and services, as well as a low-maintenance lifestyle. When you compare that monthly fee to your costs at home, be sure to tally up bills at home that include:
- Mortgage and homeowner insurance
- Grocery bills
- Money spent ordering out or eating out
- Gas money and other transportation costs
- Gym membership
- Utilities
- Social events
In a side-by-side comparison of expenses, you might find that monthly costs at home end up being more than a monthly fee at a retirement community!
Taking the Next Steps
When researching senior living communities, ensure you are involving your financial planner so they can help you reach your goals without straining your budget. In addition, speak candidly with senior living staff so that you can get a good understanding of what is covered in the monthly fee so that there are no surprises.
Learn more about life at The Glen, including our independent living options, here.