Independent Living Communities in Massachusetts

Independent living communities in Massachusetts are great places for older adults still able to carry out their normal routine but who enjoy the added benefit of receiving care as needed. Although each location varies, seniors are sure to find a range of amenities and opportunities for recreation or to stay engaged with their community. This senior care type allows individuals to maintain their unique lifestyles in an environment devoted to social enrichment, support, and the overall well-being of residents.  Whether it's a studio apartment, townhouse, or even a small cottage, it clear why independent living is one of the most popular long-term care options for seniors. 

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Cost Comparison of Massachusetts Independent Living

City Monthly Minimum Monthly Maximum Monthly Median
Framingham $2,695 $3,700 $3,198
Wayland $4,000 $5,150 $4,575

Massachusetts has 110 independent living communities that have the average cost of $4,002 per month.

Comparing costs is a great place to start when looking for an independent senior living option. One of the key benefits to this care type is the range of amenities found in different communities. Massachusetts independent living includes housekeeping services, transportation, fitness centers, and meal plans with your monthly payments. More amenities depending on your unique community may come at an additional cost, but that can be a good thing depending on your lifestyle! Here are a few costs found throughout Massachusetts. 

Recreation & Attractions in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has many features to offer potential residents such as Berkshires, Public Garden, New England Aquarium, Battleship Cove, The Witch House, and Martha’s Vineyard. Berkshires and the Public Park both offer beautiful, natural sights to relax, have a picnic and explore the scenery. The Battleship Cove is a war museum with the largest collection of naval vessels from World War II and is actually the largest collection in the world. The Witch House is the only building still standing that has a connection to the Salem Witch trials. Judge Jonathan Corwin owned the house and was one of the judges in the famous witch trials. Martha’s Vineyard is an island that has warm summer weather and beautiful beaches. As a state rich with American history, Massachusetts makes for the quintessential New England experience.  

Massachusetts' Climate, Geography & Culture

The average temperature is 51 degrees with an average high of 59 degrees and a low of 44 degrees. Massachusetts has humid and warm summers with temperatures averaging in 70 to 80. The winters are cold and snowy with temperatures typically in the 30s. Annually, Massachusetts receives 44 inches of rainfall and about 36 inches of snowfall. 

Massachusetts Independent Living Regulations and Laws

All rules and regulations of Massachusetts independent living communities are overseen by The Department of Elder Affairs. These regulations ensure that all communities meet the appropriate health, safety, and medical standards regarding their facilities and treatment of residents. Available to the public, reports detailing any past violations and the steps taken to correct them can be accessed by request. Your safety and satisfaction are the highest priority to your community and fellow residents, so never feel discouraged from airing your grievance if you think a violation has been made. 

Crime & Safety in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has many crime prevention tips and information for community members provided by the Massachusetts government’s public safety and security division. There are also neighborhood watches, crime stoppers, and police department working together to reduce and prevent crime.

LocationViolent Crimes Per 1,000 ResidentsProperty Crimes Per 1,000 Residents
Wayland0.440.96
Norfolk0.171.86
Boxford0.002.19
Hopkinton0.062.65

(source: safewise.com)

Payment Options for Massachusetts Independent Living

Since Medicare and Medicaid don’t cover independent living in most situations, seniors will want to consider how they can pay for this long-term care option with the remaining methods. 

Veterans’ Benefits can be used by a single person to receive $1,644 a month, with couples eligible for around $1,949. It's also important to note that surviving spouses of veterans may also be eligible for $1,056 a month. 

Due to the expenses of independent living, many seniors end up paying for this care type out of their own private funds and pensions, or by liquidating their assets. 

However, if these things are unavailable, it might be necessary to consider how much money can come from a Supplemental Security Income (SSI). If you are blind, have a disability or children, and don’t already receive a sustainable income you may be eligible for to collect SSI. Additionally, you must be older than 65 years of age and be a citizen of the United States of America. The average amount of monthly income from SSI is around $733.  

Another option that is becoming popular for covering the cost of independent living is to open a senior living line of credit. Allowing you to use up to $50,000 of unsecured credit, there is generally no collateral needed and the repayment terms are usually very flexible. This money is also sent directly to your independent living community every billing cycle, making it a very efficient process overall. 

Senior & Elderly Rights for Independent Living in MA

Just because someone enters an independent living community doesn't mean they waive their constitutional rights! As a resident in an independent living community, you are afforded all of your rights as a U.S. citizen. If you have reason to believe that your rights have been violated, contact a lawyer well-versed in elder law. For a helpful resource in understanding your rights as a senior citizen review the Massachusetts Ombudsman for more details. 

MA Independent Living Medical Record Rules & Regulations

Physicians and healthcare providers are required by law to maintain an individual’s medical records for a total of 7 years in the state of Massachusetts. Residents of independent living communities in Massachusetts are entitled to view a copy of their records by submitting a formal request accompanied by a processing fee. Federal laws like HIPAA mandate that physicians must produce records within 30 days of this request. For a full run-down of your physician’s obligations regarding medical records, check out the specifics from the state of Massachusetts.

Finding the perfect senior care community is only part of making your loved one’s senior living transition smooth. At SeniorCaring, we know that it is also equally important to be aware of what other community services and resources are available to your family’s senior. Choose your location and find local resources for your senior.