Understanding the Base Costs for Assisted Living and Memory Care
For families exploring senior living options in San Francisco, the pricing structure at Rhoda Goldman Plaza depends heavily on the level of care required—specifically, assisted living or memory care—and the size of the chosen residence. Base rates cover the apartment and many core services, but the final monthly payment can increase with additional care needs.
Assisted Living Pricing Structure
Assisted living rates at Rhoda Goldman Plaza are determined by the apartment floor plan. Prices listed are base rates and do not include additional charges for extra care services or other fees. For example, studios begin at around $7,200 per month, with larger units demanding higher rates. A one-bedroom can range from $8,500 to $9,500 monthly, and a two-bedroom can be between $11,600 and $15,000 per month.
| Unit Type | Estimated Monthly Base Rate |
|---|---|
| Studio | $7,200 - $8,800 |
| One-Bedroom | $8,500 - $9,500 |
| Two-Bedroom | $11,600 - $15,000 |
Memory Care Costs on The Terrace
For residents with dementia or Alzheimer's, Rhoda Goldman Plaza offers a specialized memory care unit known as 'The Terrace'. The pricing for this higher level of care also varies, with monthly rates starting within a range of $7,200 to $13,000. It is important to note that memory care generally costs more than standard assisted living due to the increased staffing and specialized programming required.
Unpacking Additional Fees and Charges
The base rate is a crucial starting point, but it does not represent the total monthly cost for most residents. Several other factors contribute to the final bill, including the level of personalized care and one-time fees.
Levels of Care and Personalized Services
Not all residents require the same amount of assistance with daily activities. Rhoda Goldman Plaza assesses each individual to determine their specific care needs, such as medication management, bathing, or mobility support. These extra services are billed separately. Costs for additional levels of care can add between $860 and $2,800 to the monthly fee.
Other Potential Costs
- Second Person Fee: If a couple resides in the same apartment, there is a recurring monthly fee for the second resident, starting at around $2,000.
- Community Fee: A one-time, non-refundable community fee is typically charged upon moving in, starting from $8,000.
- Respite Stay: The community also offers furnished respite stays for short-term needs, such as recovery from a hospital visit, for a separate cost.
Included Amenities and Services
Part of understanding how much does the Rhoda Goldman Plaza cost is recognizing the value provided by the included amenities. The monthly fee covers a range of high-quality services and features, reducing other potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Included features often include:
- All-inclusive Dining: Chef-prepared, restaurant-style meals served daily, with options for kosher, gluten-free, and other dietary needs.
- Housekeeping & Laundry: Regular housekeeping, apartment cleaning, and linen services are provided.
- Engaging Activities: A wide variety of programs, classes, and social outings designed to promote physical, emotional, and mental wellness.
- Community Facilities: Access to on-site amenities such as the pool, beauty salon, and outdoor spaces.
- Transportation: Scheduled transportation services for medical appointments and group outings.
Potential Financial Assistance for Senior Care
For families concerned about the cost, several financial planning and assistance options may be available. While Medicare generally does not cover assisted living, other avenues can help manage the financial commitment.
- Medi-Cal Waiver: In California, the Medi-Cal Assisted Living Waiver may help eligible seniors with the cost of assisted living or memory care.
- Long-Term Care Insurance: Policies can be used to cover assisted living and memory care expenses, depending on the terms.
- Veteran's Benefits: Certain VA benefits, such as the Aid and Attendance program, can provide financial aid for senior care.
- Bridge Loans: Short-term loans can help cover the cost of care while waiting for other funds to become available.
- JFCS Financial Guidance: As a division of Jewish Family & Children’s Services, residents and families may have access to JFCS's financial aid and guidance resources.
Choosing the Right Fit for Your Needs and Budget
Ultimately, the value of a senior living community extends beyond the monthly fee. Comparing Rhoda Goldman Plaza to other options in San Francisco requires weighing the cost against the quality of care, staffing ratio, amenities, and overall community culture. The higher staff-to-resident ratio and not-for-profit values emphasized by the Plaza are significant factors to consider in the overall value proposition.
To make an informed decision, prospective residents and their families should request a personalized quote based on their specific needs and visit the community to experience the environment firsthand.
More information can be found on the official Rhoda Goldman Plaza website, a division of Jewish Family and Children's Services: Rhoda Goldman Plaza.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance of Cost and Care
Understanding how much does the Rhoda Goldman Plaza cost involves looking at multiple factors, from the specific apartment size and care level to additional fees and included amenities. While the price may be higher than state and national averages due to its San Francisco location, the comprehensive services, high staffing ratio, and supportive environment offer significant value. By exploring all cost components and financial assistance options, families can determine if the premium quality of life at Rhoda Goldman Plaza aligns with their budget and care needs.
