Missouri has a lot to offer retirees. Aside from its stunning landscapes, some museums and landmarks celebrate the state’s rich heritage.

When touring a senior living community, ask about the monthly fees and additional costs. Also, see whether the community accepts Medicare and Medicaid.

Location

The show state, well-known for its Midwestern hospitality and devoted sports fans, has much to offer retirees. The state is a wonderful choice for seniors due to its low cost of living and income tax exemptions.

Independent living in Missouri allows seniors to lead a self-sufficient lifestyle while enjoying a retirement community’s perks. These communities typically have access to leisure facilities, such as restaurants, gyms, and multiple rooms for games, activities, and classes.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services regulates assisted living facilities (ALFs) and residential care facilities (RCFs). While both types of long-term care share many similar rules, there are some key differences. Ask each facility about their staff-to-resident ratio when you tour. You’ll want to ensure your loved one is well taken care of and has a good relationship with their caregivers. Also, inquire about the size of each residence’s apartment-style rooms. They must have at least 70 square feet per resident and include a private bath.

Amenities

Missouri is one of the many states that offers seniors a range of senior living options. These include independent living for active retirees, assisted living, and memory care. Independent living is suited for healthy seniors who need little or no assistance managing their daily lives. This type of facility is similar to apartment living, with the added benefit of amenities such as workout rooms and outdoor areas.

Assisted living and memory care are more specialized types of senior housing. The state of Missouri regulates them and must comply with its standards. These include a ratio of staff to residents and a “home-like” environment that provides the psychosocial experience of family living. Senior living facilities Missouri provide meal preparation, bathing, and grooming services.

Missouri also maintains a long-term care ombudsman program to advocate for the rights and interests of seniors. The ombudsman’s office coordinates volunteers who visit assisted living facilities to provide advocacy and listen to complaints from residents.

Staff

Located in the heart of America, Missouri is known for its beautiful landscapes and kind-hearted people. It also offers a quieter lifestyle that can help seniors feel at home. Assisted living, memory care, and nursing homes are available throughout the state to help older adults live their best life.

Licensed senior living facilities must have a licensed administrator and staff to oversee daily operations. In addition, they must have a nurse and large enough direct care staff to accommodate both scheduled and unscheduled needs. A Level I medication aide must also be available to administer medications to residents who can’t do so themselves.

Many retirement communities offer all types of long-term care in one place, which makes it easy for seniors to move between different levels of care as their needs change. This type of community is called a continuing care retirement community, or CCRC. These communities typically offer amenities that promote physical and mental health, such as exercise rooms, restaurants, and social activities.

Fees

The state offers numerous long-term care options for seniors. However, they’re only sometimes managed equally and vary in cost. Independent living costs are about 30% lower in Missouri than the national average, while assisted living rates are 33% lower compared to the 2021 Genworth Cost of Care survey.

Senior living facilities must provide a licensed administrator to oversee day-to-day operations and maintain a nursing staff to monitor medication, medical equipment, and treatments. Additionally, they must offer a home-like environment and have adequate staff-to-resident ratios.

Missouri also has an ombudsman program to investigate abuse, neglect, and exploitation reports. Residents can apply for Medicaid assistance through the Aged and Disabled Waiver, which covers many services, including assisted living. In addition, the Division of Assets allows low-income individuals to apply for a cash grant. Seniors with Medicare can also use the program to cover prescriptions, doctor visits, and medical equipment.