Deciding on an assisted living facility for a loved one or for yourself is a significant step. Comfort, care quality, activities, and costs are all factors to consider. In this guide, we delve into some of the top assisted living facilities in Central Florida, offering valuable insights to aid your decision-making process.

Why Choose Assisted Living Central Florida?

In Central Florida, seniors comprise more than 15% of the population, and this number is expected to rise significantly by 2030. The region’s year-round warm weather, world-renowned entertainment options, and spectacular natural preserves make it an ideal retirement destination. Furthermore, the cost of assisted living in Central Florida averages around $3,500 per month, excluding care costs.

Top 12 Assisted Living Facilities in Central Florida

1. Gentry Park, Orlando

Located on Orlando’s eastern edge, Gentry Park offers a three-story independent living, assisted living, and memory care community. Their facility boasts a high-level Extended Congregate Care (ECC) license catering to seniors with more intensive care needs. The community offers studios and one-bedroom apartments, and their dining services are top-notch, courtesy of their chef who formerly worked at Disney.

2. Encore at Avalon Park, Orlando

Encore at Avalon Park provides personalized care in a three-story facility nestled in the heart of Avalon Park. They too hold an ECC license, ensuring a smooth transition for seniors even as their care needs increase. Their unique memory program, which includes visits from local middle school students, is a standout feature.

3. Brookdale Conway, South Orlando

Located near the Orlando International Airport, Brookdale Conway provides well-rounded, non-medical care in a home-like setting. This senior living community offers amenities such as a salon, game room, library, restaurant-style dining, and an array of social activities.

4. The Bridge at Orlando

The Bridge at Orlando offers top-tier, around-the-clock service in an elegant, home-like setting. This assisted living facility also provides dynamic social planning, delicious meal options, and an active wellness program for residents.

5. Excellence Senior Living, Orlando

Excellence Senior Living offers programs that empower retirees to take charge of their daily activities while enjoying a full range of supportive services. Their activities director engages residents with lively entertainment such as visits from local wildlife refuges and Elvis impersonators.

6. Allegro of Winter Park

Allegro, nestled into Winter Park, provides a luxurious retirement community with over 40 years of experience. The facility offers upscale amenities such as a resort-style pool, spa room, sauna, library, salon, and fine dining.

7. Strive at Fern Park, Orlando

Strive at Fern Park offers a blend of extraordinary care and superior service. This senior living community comprises several neighborhoods, each designed around a theme and offering studio-sized or one-bedroom apartments.

8. Alabama Oaks, Winter Park

Alabama Oaks, located in the heart of Winter Park, offers high-quality care in a residential, home-like setting. This facility provides independent, assisted living, and memory care services.

9. The Rose Garden of Orlando

The Rose Garden of Orlando offers southern charm styled assisted living with a 60’s vibe. Located south of the Florida Mall, this newly refurbished building offers the largest apartments in East Orlando, with lively activities and excellent staff.

10. Somerby Lake Nona, Orlando

Somerby Lake Nona offers a five-star, resort-style community with exceptional care services. All employees at this senior living community are Certified Dementia Practitioners, providing top-tier care for seniors with dementia.

11. Oakmonte Village, Orlando

Oakmonte Village, located near Casselberry and 436, is a resort-inspired senior living community offering independent, assisted living, and memory care. They offer vibrant activities, fitness center with on-site instructors, and regular outings.

12. Watermark of Vistawilla, Winter Springs

Located just minutes from downtown Orlando, Watermark of Vistawilla offers a tranquil environment for seniors. This assisted living and memory care community provides amenities such as a salon, full wine bar, resort-style pool, and spa room.

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Central Florida

When considering a move to an assisted living facility in Central Florida, financial planning is a critical aspect to consider. Central Florida, renowned for its beautiful weather and vibrant communities, offers a range of options for seniors seeking assisted living facilities. However, the costs can be substantial, and many may need financial assistance to cover the expenses. Here is a guide that provides an insight into various financial assistance options available for those considering assisted living in Central Florida.

Medicaid Managed Care Programs

In Florida, Medicaid Managed Care programs can help cover the costs of assisted living for eligible seniors. The Statewide Medicaid Managed Care (SMMC) program, for instance, can cover services in assisted living facilities for qualifying individuals. These services may include personal care, nursing services, and medication administration. However, it is essential to note that not all assisted living facilities accept Medicaid, so it’s important to verify this with individual facilities.

Veterans Aid

Veterans and their spouses may be eligible for financial aid through the Aid and Attendance benefit. This benefit is in addition to the monthly pension and can be a substantial help in covering assisted living costs for veterans. The application process can be extensive, and eligibility requirements are strict, so it’s advisable to consult a Veterans Affairs (VA) officer for assistance.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Some individuals have long-term care insurance policies that can help cover the costs of assisted living. It’s essential to review the policy details to understand the coverage, limitations, and any conditions that apply. Policies vary widely, and some may cover only specific types of care or have waiting periods before benefits begin.

Florida Department of Elder Affairs Programs

The Florida Department of Elder Affairs offers various programs and services to help seniors, including financial assistance for those in assisted living facilities. Programs such as the Optional State Supplementation (OSS) program can provide financial aid to eligible seniors residing in assisted living facilities.

Life Insurance Policy Conversions

Some seniors might not be aware that they can convert life insurance policies into a long-term care benefit plan. This option can be especially helpful for those who need immediate financial assistance. It’s recommended to consult with a financial advisor to understand the implications and benefits of converting a life insurance policy.

Private Pay and Personal Savings

While it may not be an option for everyone, private pay remains one of the most straightforward payment methods for assisted living. Personal savings, retirement accounts, and income from assets can be used to cover assisted living costs. Financial planners can offer valuable insights on how to allocate resources efficiently to cover long-term care needs.

Housing Assistance

Seniors with limited income can also explore housing assistance options available in Central Florida. Some non-profit organizations and housing agencies offer affordable housing options and may have partnerships with assisted living facilities to provide reduced costs for eligible seniors.

Important Resources

• Florida Medicaid – Information on Medicaid services in Florida.
• Veterans Affairs – Detailed information on veteran’s benefits, including the Aid and Attendance benefit.
• Florida Department of Elder Affairs – Information on state programs and services for seniors.
• National Council on Aging – Resources on various financial assistance options for seniors.

While the above resources can provide a starting point, it’s vital to consult with a financial planner or a knowledgeable advisor to find the most appropriate financial assistance options based on individual circumstances.

Concluding Remarks

Choosing an assisted living facility in Central Florida involves considering several factors, including the quality of care, cost, location, and available amenities. With its warm climate, plethora of activities, and high-quality healthcare facilities, Central Florida offers a myriad of options for seniors requiring assisted living. Use this guide as a starting point in your search for the perfect assisted living facility that suits your needs and preferences.