Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Answers You Need

What is senior living?

Senior living typically refers to a range of housing and healthcare options for older adults. Although sometimes referred to as retirement living, senior living is also popular with residents who are partially retired or even still working. Senior living options include independent living, assisted living, and assisted living with memory care.

What is the difference between independent living and assisted living?

While both independent living and assisted living communities offer life-enhancing amenities and a maintenance-free lifestyle, assisted living residents benefit from support with activities of daily living. Such services may include bathing, dressing, grooming, and medication management. For those living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, assisted living with memory care provides compassionate, specialized care in a secure neighborhood.

What is the difference between a 55+ community and an independent living community?

Independent living communities offer a much more robust selection of services and amenities than are typically found in a 55+ community. In addition to grounds keeping, maintenance, and staff on-site 24 hours a day, an independent living community offers dining plans, full calendar of events and activities, and housekeeping.

Are assisted living expenses potentially tax deductible?

Some expenses associated with assisted living may be tax deductible, depending on personal situation. See our flyer, Information on Tax Deductibility of Assisted Living Costs, answers many common questions about eligible deductions. Be sure to consult with your tax advisor to determine eligibility.

How do we choose the right community?

When choosing a senior living community, the options can be overwhelming. Our senior living consultants can help your family identify the appropriate lifestyle level – independent, assisted, or memory care. When visiting senior living communities, consider both the private living space and the common areas. Are there plenty of comfortable places to gather with family and friends? Review the menu and try a meal. Are menu selections appealing and flavorful? How varied is the daily menu? When you visit, chat with the residents. Are residents engaged in activities while you are there? Does the activities calendar offer a variety of activities and outings to encourage socialization and connection?

How do we know that it’s time to consider a senior living community?

Many of our residents would say it’s never too early to consider senior living, adding that they wish they had made the move sooner. Here’s how you’ll know:

  • When you are ready to let go of the hassles of home ownership or apartment maintenance and enjoy the advantages of senior living.
  • When a little assistance will help you experience a more enriched lifestyle.
  • When your loved one has a diagnosis of memory impairment such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or related cognitive concern.
  • When you prefer to spend your time with friends and enjoy chef-prepared meals every day.

What is the difference between a rental community and a buy-in community?

In a rental community, the resident’s monthly payment covers rent, maintenance, services and amenities offered within the community, and most activities. There may be an additional fee for additional care services. In a buy-in community, residents make a financial investment up front. Welch Senior Living has both rental communities and a cooperative ownership community.

What is cooperative ownership?

Cooperative ownership is a form of buy-in. With cooperative ownership, upon purchasing your senior living residence you become a shareholder in the Cooperative Housing Corporation. Each residence represents one share in the cooperative corporation. Welch Senior Living’s Village at Duxbury campus offers cooperative ownership independent living apartments and Garden Homes.

Is there a difference between cooperative ownership and a buy-in community?

With cooperative ownership, the resident owns a share in the cooperative corporation and that share can be sold at market prices when the resident leaves the community. In a buy-in community, residents pay an entrance deposit, a portion of which may be refundable after move-out from the community.