How Much Does a Nursing Home Cost in Orlando?

by Michele Moon

As Certified Senior Housing Professionals (real estate agents who specialize in real estate transactions for boomers, seniors, and their caregiver families in Orlando) one of the most important things that my partner Lisa D'Aloise and I can do is provide information to people on all of the various issues involved in a late-in-life transition.

We Help Central Florida Seniors Who Are On the Move

Moving into a senior retirement community or - if health concerns demand it - an assisted living facility or nursing home is a big choice, and we want to make sure that you are well aware of all the issues, both financial and otherwise.

I recently came across an infographic that provides an overview of the costs involved when a move to a nursing home or assisted living community in Orlando is necessary.

Of course, these numbers can and will vary drastically, but they provide an educational starting point.

While a significant part of our job at the Estate Conversions Team is centered on helping older adults 50+ sell their houses and prepare for the future, we also wish to educate and inform you on options aside from the sale of a Central Florida home.

Here's How We Help Orlando Adults 50+ Sell a House

Those options can include age-in-place possibilities designed to help a senior remain in their home for as long as possible. If a move elsewhere is indeed necessary, part of our senior real estate services include putting you in touch with other senior-focused professionals who can help you through the process, including elder law attorneys, financial planners, tax specialists, professional organizers, and a variety of other service providers.

To make the entire process easier for you and your family, we serve as the hub for all of these professionals, ensuring that they are all coordinating their efforts properly for you and your late-in-life move.

We'll be happy to answer any questions or offer advice. Please feel free to contact us anytime right here. 

Our Featured Orlando House for Sale

Hurry in to see this nice home in the Conway area. The floor plan features a split bedroom plan, separate living room, dining room, and family room. The family room features a wood burning fireplace and sliding glass doors to the screened porch. The large backyard is fully fenced. The home also has hurricane shutters. It is conveniently located close to the Conway recreation park, Barber Park is across the street and the schools are all top rated. Just needs a little TLC to make it yours.

Baby Boomer and Senior Citizen Discounts (55+) in Orlando, Florida

by Michele Moon

From haircuts, to restaurants, to retail stores, to travel and groceries, baby boomers and seniors in the Orlando area and across central Florida can take advantage of a wide variety of discounts available to those 55+.

Of course, eligible ages vary from store to store, and while some request that you be 60+ or more, many are happy to share some love with the 55+ set.

We Specialize in Home Sales and Services for Central Florida Seniors and Boomers on the Move

But remember, you always have to ask for the discount, so don't be shy! In fact, it may be a good policy for Orlando seniors, boomers, or caregiver families to ask about discounts anywhere and everywhere you spend money.

Below is a list of NATIONAL businesses that share discounts for seniors. These may have changed over time or - in some instances - no longer be valid, but I hope it'll serve as a starting place to help you save some dollars here and there.

While these are national chains and businesses, I'd love to compile a list of independent, local, mom and pop businesses in the Orlando area that provide similar savings.

If your business does, or if you are aware of such a business with senior discounts in Central Florida, please email me the information here. And thank you!


RESTAURANTS:

Applebee’s: 15% off with Golden Apple Card (60+)
Arby’s: 10% off (55+)
Ben & Jerry’s: 10% off (60+)
Bennigan’s: discount varies by location (60+)
Bob’s Big Boy: discount varies by location (60+)
Boston Market: 10% off (65+)
Burger King: 10% off (60+)
Chick-Fil-A: 10% off or free small drink or coffee (55+)
Chili’s: 10% off (55+)
CiCi’s Pizza: 10% off (60+)
Denny’s: 10% off, 20% off for AARP members (55+)
Dunkin’ Donuts: 10% off or free coffee (55+)
Einstein’s Bagels: 10% off baker’s dozen of bagels (60+)
Fuddrucker’s: 10% off any senior platter (55+)
Gatti’s Pizza: 10% off (60+)
Golden Corral: 10% off (60+)
Hardee’s: $0.33 beverages everyday (65+)
IHOP: 10% off (55+)
Jack in the Box: up to 20% off (55+)
KFC: free small drink with any meal (55+)
Krispy Kreme: 10% off (50+)
Long John Silver’s: various discounts at locations (55+)
McDonald’s: discounts on coffee everyday (55+)
Mrs. Fields: 10% off at participating locations (60+)
Shoney’s: 10% off Sonic: 10% off or free beverage (60+)
Steak ‘n Shake: 10% off every Monday & Tuesday (50+)
Subway: 10% off (60+)
Sweet Tomatoes: 10% off (62+)
Taco Bell: 5% off; free beverages for seniors (65+)
TCBY: 10% off (55+)
Tea Room Cafe: 10% off (50+)
Village Inn: 10% off (60+)
Waffle House: 10% off every Monday (60+)
Wendy’s: 10% off (55+)
White Castle: 10% off (62+)

Orlando Senior Housing: Learn How We Help Central Florida Boomers and Seniors with Late-In-Life Moves

RETAIL & APPAREL:

Banana Republic: 10% off (50+)
Bealls: 20% off first Tuesday of each month (50+)
Belk’s: 15% off first Tuesday of every month (55+)
Big Lots: 10% off
Bon-Ton Department Stores: 15% off on senior discount days (55+)
C.J. Banks: 10% off every Wednesday (60+)
Clarks: 10% off (62+)
Dress Barn: 10% off (55+)
Goodwill: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Hallmark: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Kmart: 20% off (50+)
Kohl’s: 15% off (60+)
Modell’s Sporting Goods: 10% off
Rite Aid: 10% off on Tuesdays & 10% off prescriptions
Ross Stores: 10% off every Tuesday (55+)
The Salvation Army Thrift Stores: up to 50% off (55+)
Stein Mart: 20% off red dot/clearance items first Monday of every month (55+)

By Maurice07 (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

GROCERY:

Albertson’s: 10% off first Wednesday of each month (55+)
American Discount Stores: 10% off every Monday (50+)
Compare Foods Supermarket: 10% off every Wednesday (60+)
DeCicco Family Markets: 5% off every Wednesday (60+)
Food Lion: 6% off every Monday (60+)
Fry’s Supermarket: free Fry’s VIP Club Membership & 10% off every Monday (55+)
Great Valu Food Store: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
Gristedes Supermarket: 10% off every Tuesday (60+)
Harris Teeter: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
Hy-Vee: 5% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Kroger: 10% off (date varies by location)
Morton Williams Supermarket: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
The Plant Shed: 10% off every Tuesday (50+)
Publix: 5% off every Wednesday (55+)
Rogers Marketplace: 5% off every Thursday (60+)
Uncle Guiseppe’s Marketplace: 5% off (62+)

TRAVEL:

Alaska Airlines: 10% off (65+)
American Airlines: various discounts for 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
Continental Airlines: no initiation fee for Continental Presidents Club & special fares for select destinations
Southwest Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
United Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
U.S. Airways: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
Amtrak: 15% off (62+)
Greyhound: 5% off (62+)
Trailways Transportation System: various discounts for ages 50+
Car Rental:Alamo Car Rental: up to 25% off for AARP members
Avis: up to 25% off for AARP members Best Western: 10% off (55+)
Budget Rental Cars: 10% off; up to 20% off for AARP members (50+)
Dollar Rent-A-Car: 10% off (50+)
Enterprise Rent-A-Car: 5% off for AARP members
Hertz: up to 25% off for AARP members
National Rent-A-Car: up to 30% off for AARP members
Cambria Suites: 20%-30% off (60+)
Clarion Motels: 20%-30% off (60+)
Comfort Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Comfort Suites: 20%-30% off (60+)
Econo Lodge: 20%-30% off (60+)
Hampton Inns & Suites: 10% off when booked 72 hours in advance
Holiday Inn: 10%-30% off depending on location (62+)
Hyatt Hotels: 25%-50% off (62+)
InterContinental Hotels Group: various discounts at all hotels (65+)
Mainstay Suites: 10% off with Mature Traveler’s Discount (50+); 20%-30% off (60+)
Marriott Hotels: 15% off (62+)
Motel 6: 10% off (60+)
Myrtle Beach Resort: 10% off (55+)
Quality Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Rodeway Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Sleep Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)

ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT:

AMC Theaters: up to 30% off (55+)
Bally Total Fitness: up to $100 off memberships (62+)
Busch Gardens Tampa, FL: $3 off one-day tickets (50+)
Carmike Cinemas: 35% off (65+)
Cinemark/Century Theaters: up to 35% off
U.S. National Parks: $10 lifetime pass; 50% off additional services including camping (62+)
Regal Cinemas: 30% off Ripley’s Believe it or Not: @ off one-day ticket (55+)
SeaWorld Orlando, FL: $3 off one-day tickets (50+)

CELL PHONE DISCOUNTS:

AT&T: Special Senior Nation 200 Plan $29.99/month (65+)
Jitterbug: $10/month cell phone service (50+)
Verizon Wireless: Verizon Nationwide 65 Plus Plan $29.99/month (65+)

MISCELLANEOUS:

Great Clips: $3 off hair cuts (60+)
Super Cuts: $2 off haircuts (60+)

Our Featured Oviedo, Florida House for Sale

Contact Lisa D'Aloise or Michele Moon to Schedule a Showing

Hurry in to see this immaculate home in desirable Twin Rivers. This home has been lovingly maintained by the original owner. Downstairs you'll find a large family room that opens onto the screened pool and a nice kitchen with silestone counter tops, walk-in pantry and eating area. The formal dining room and living room are also nice sized and the master is located downstairs as well. The upstairs features a loft area that is perfect for a desk, three good size bedrooms and a full bath. Recent updates include the exterior painted in 2012, pool screen in 2013, both A/C units in 2009 and some interior painted in 2014. The property is beautiful and is just over a quarter acre. 

Are You Part of Orlando's "Sandwich Generation"? Help for Baby Boomers with Older Parents

by Michele Moon

Are you a part of the "Sandwich Generation" in Central Florida?

You are if you are between the ages of 40 and 60 and responsible for the care of not only your aging parents, but also your own, dependent children. This generation, “sandwiched” between two other generations, experiences both the joys and the stress of being responsible – financially, emotionally, and energetically – to the needs of two distinct members of their family.

Baby boomers are typically a large segment of this generation, but even those in their 40's in the Orlando area are increasingly finding themselves pressed for money and time as they care for elderly parents. This is especially true if your parent has medical issues and is nearly completely dependent on you.

In some cases, members of the "Sandwich Generation" are in the process of - or will soon have to - begin the large amount of work necessary to settle some of Mom or Dad's estate, learn how to find an assisted living facility, sell their parent's house, and attend to a rather large number of variables and red tape that make up the work of a late-in-life transition.

Senior Housing in Orlando

If you're a member of the Sandwich Generation in Orlando and are feeling sandwiched and squeezed, the most important thing to remember is that help is available. A wide variety of professionals exist to be of service where a baby boomer or family caregiver in their 40's may require help in senior-related issues.

And not all of it costs money. For example, as Certified Senior Housing Professionals, part of our job at Estate Conversions in Oviedo is to help boomers and seniors understand their options in senior housing, while also directing the family caregivers to other senior-centric professionals in metropolitan Orlando – businesses we have personally vetted and can recommend for their excellence.

As Orlando realtors, Lisa D'Aloise and I - Michele Moon - are able to help with the sale of a family home anywhere from Winter Park to Sanford.  

But we do more than sell a house. We'll also sit down with you and help educate you on what we've learned over the course of many years of helping seniors and their families navigate the emotional and financial complexities of moving an older adult to a new home. We're also specifically trained to coordinate the efforts of these various professionals as part of our job of taking some of the strain away from you, our client.  

Need Advice, Information, or Just Someone to Vent to?

Email Us Here

Learn More About What We Do

Our Featured Winter Springs, Florida House for Sale: Contact Michele or Lisa to Schedule a Showing

Five bedrooms, Five Baths. Come see this custom-built home with all the "I Wants" in this exclusive Arrowhead neighborhood in Tuscawilla. The main living areas offer lovely views of the golf course from its vantage point on the 9th tee of the Tuscawilla golf course. 

Interview: What is a Professional Guardian?

by Michele Moon

As Certified Senior Housing Professionals in Orlando, the Estate Conversions Team - Lisa D'Aloise and I - have been trained and educated to provide a new level of expertise, service, and compassion to our senior and boomer clients.

That includes building a resource team of other professionals who provide specific services to seniors and family caregivers - businesses and people that we have vetted and feel confident in referring our clients to. As Certified Senior Housing Professionals, it's our job to help you with real estate transactions, including the sale or purchase of a home, and also know the right people to refer you to when a need outside of our scope of business appears.

We Specialize in Home Sales and Assistance for Orlando Adults 55+

One of those needs that may develop when one embarks on a late-in-life move is that of a Professional Guardian. Here's an overview of what a professional guardian in Orlando, Orange County, and all across Central Florida does.

H. Leonard (Lennie) Burke, Professional Guardian.

Michelle: Lennie, I have worked with several Professional Guardians, so I have some idea of what you do, but I’m not sure I understand the whole story. Why is guardianship necessary in the first place?

Lennie: Sometimes an individual won’t be able to make decisions for him or herself. This could be as a result of Alzheimer’s or other dementia, a stroke, injury or some other mental deficiency. In that tragic circumstance, someone else will have to make important decisions for them. So, the Circuit Court can be asked to appoint a guardian to take over that responsibility so that their health is protected and their property is not wasted or stolen.

Michelle: Shouldn’t this be the role of a family member?

Lennie: Generally, yes. The law specifies a preference for a family member to act in this critical role. Sometimes there is no family member available, willing or qualified. In that case the Court might have to seek the assistance of a Professional Guardian.

Michelle: So, you’re only appointed when there is no family member to be appointed?

Lennie: There are other situations. One is a dispute within a family. In that case, a judge may appoint a Professional Guardian because they are neutral. I’ve been appointed in this situation several times.

Michelle: So, let’s say you are appointed. What kinds of decisions are you empowered to make?

Lennie: The powers can be divided into two categories – guardian of the person and guardian of the property. Guardian of the person might include medical decision making, determining social environment and residential placement. Guardian of the property might include managing funds, receiving benefits, protecting personal and real property and paying bills.

Michelle: You said “might”. Can you explain that word choice?

Lennie: When the judge determines that an individual is incapacitated, the judge will remove certain rights from that person based on that individual’s capacity. The judge will also determine specifically which rights and duties will be assigned to the guardian.

Michelle: Are Professional Guardians licensed?

Lennie: No, not exactly. We are technically not “licensed”. We are required to be registered with the Department of Elder Affairs. In order to be registered, we have to complete a training course, pass a competency exam, obtain a bond, and pass both criminal background and credit checks. We also have to obtain regular continuing education and renew our registration every year. So, it’s very similar to licensing.

Reach H. Leonard (Lennie) Burke, Professional Guardian at 321-251-8133

Michelle: Is there any review of the actions of a Professional Guardian and are there any professional standards?

Lennie: The guardian serves at the discretion of the Court and all actions are subject to Court review. A guardian of the person must submit an annual plan to the Court. That plan documents care during the previous year and forecasts what care will be provided during the coming year. A guardian of the property must submit an annual accounting of all assets and transactions for audit by the Court.

The State of Florida does not impose an ethical standard or standards of practice on guardians. Some Professional Guardians enjoy national certification (by the Center for Guardianship Certification) which obligates them to follow an ethical standard subject to discipline. Both the National Guardianship Association and the Florida State Guardianship Association have published standards of practice which are advisory.

Michelle: Do you have any final comments?

Lennie: Guardianship is not something anybody wants. It should be regarded as a last resort. It can be expensive and intrusive. I liken it to a heart bypass operation. Nobody looks forward to having their heart cut open. Sometimes it is necessary for the patient. Guardianship is similar in that it may be the necessary step to protect someone from danger. Lastly, guardianship doesn’t have to be forever. We are required to review on an annual basis whether rights could be restored and the person under guardianship always has the power to petition for restoration of their rights.

Michelle: You mentioned a moment ago disputes within families and we have talked about that before. Can we talk in the future about your efforts to help families in conflict?

Lennie: Absolutely. I look forward to that.

Indeed, Lennie also provides mediation, a service that - in some cases - may allow guardianship to be avoided.

Learn more about Lennie and mediation here at his website. 

Featured Listing from the Estate Conversions Team: Ovideo, Florida House for Sale

{Video} Interview with Orlando (Winter Park) Attorney on Estate Planning, Wills, and Power of Attorney

by Michele Moon

Simply downloading a legal form from the Internet and expecting it to be - or remain - valid can be a dangerous proposition.

As Orlando real estate agents who specialize in helping seniors downsize, sell a house, and prepare to move into more manageable housing, we at Estate Conversions regularly work with other professionals who provide important services for Orlando seniors or their caregiver families.

We Specialize in Home Sales and Assistance for Orlando Adults 55+

I had a chance to sit down for a few minutes and chat with Orlando attorney Rachel Alvarez to discuss a wide variety of legal issues that impact Central Florida baby boomers, senior citizens, and their family caregivers.

In this video segment we specifically talk about the often misunderstood attributes of a power of attorney. For example, did you know that a power of attorney goes into effect immediately in the state of Florida?

Rachel discusses how you can protect yourself, the different types of power of attorney (like financial or health), and the importance of ensuring that your power of attorney is structured to be legally sound.

Rachel's law office is located in Winter Park, Florida and she specializes in Real Estate, Asset Protection, and Estate Planning, among other areas of practice.

Visit the Alvarez Law Firm

About Rachel

Lake Mary, Florida Townhouse for Sale

Lovely townhome in desirable Heron Cove is ready for its new owner. The home features a large L shaped great room with a wood burning fireplace, dining area and sliding glass doors that lead out to a fenced back yard. The eat in kitchen has all the appliances and access to the laundry room and garage. Upstairs you'll find two generous sized master suites with full baths. 

One bedroom has sliding glass doors that lead to an upstairs balcony. The home has brand new, neutral carpeting throughout and has been well maintained. Residents of Heron Cove enjoy a community pool and quiet tree lined streets, easy access to shopping, restaurants and I-4. Hoa covers roof, skylights, driveway, gutters, trees, lawn care, bldg exterior and more. Easy to see and buy!

Video Review: Premier Senior Consultants: Helping Orlando Seniors Find the Right Retirement Communities

by Michele Moon

As Orlando real estate agents who specialize in helping seniors downsize, sell a house, and prepare to move into more manageable housing, we at Estate Conversions regularly come across other people who are providing some unique and first-class services for Orlando seniors or their caregiver families.

The Estate Conversions Team: Specializing in Home Sales for Orlando Adults 55+

I recently had the pleasure of spending time with Holly Jennings who - along with her business partner Carrie Vick - are the driving force behind Premier Senior Consultants, an Orlando company that provides a free service that many people probably don't even know is available to them.

If you're an older adult or the family caregiver of a senior citizen and need to learn more about the process of moving into a Central Florida independent living or assisted living community (often commonly referred to as retirement communities) Holly, Carrie, and Premier Senior Consultants can be of extraordinary assistance.

And, as mentioned above, their service is free to you: the senior or family member. Holly and Carrie both hold extensive experience as administrators and executives within the senior housing industry. Now, they've started their own business to utilize that knowledge and provide a concierge/consultant service to seniors or their families.

Watch My Video Interview with Holly

Visit the Premier Senior Consultants Website

Here's how Holly and Carrie explain their assistance:

The Premier Process begins with a personal interview to gather information with family member(s) and the future resident. This is to ensure each potential community meets the expectations and requirements we have identified.

Next, we will tour each Senior Living Community by your side, supporting the process from start to finish. Our goal is to ensure each future resident will be welcomed, cared for and safe in their new home.

Our service is at NO COST to you and the fee is paid by the community after the resident has successfully transitioned to their new home.

Many thanks to Holly, Carrie, and Premier Senior Consultants for being a part of the effort to make finding the right senior housing in Orlando an easier and more intuitive process for all involved!

Our Featured Orlando House for Sale

Come see...Come sigh! Hurry in to see this lovely home in highly desirable Waterford Lakes! Inside you'll find soaring ceilings, spacious formal living room and dining room and a large family room. The master bedroom is located on the first floor and has a jetted tub, large walk in closet and access to the pool/patio. Upstairs are 4 bedrooms, two with walk in closets and a loft. The pool has solar panels, pop up cleaners, a gas heated spa and an indoor control system. The exterior was just painted in November and the A/C was replaced in '04. Residents of Waterford Lakes enjoy a community pool, playground, tennis, walking paths and top rated schools. The location is ideal with close proximity to the 408 expressway, Waterford Lakes Towne Center, shopping and restaurants.

Lisa D’Aloise and Michele Moon are Recognized for Expertise in Senior Housing and Late-in-Life Transitions

Oviedo, FL, January 31, 2014 --(PR.com)-- Prestigious Real Estate and Senior Housing Certification Reflects Knowledge of Distinct Market and Passionate Commitment to Service

Online Press Release

Having recently completed a rigorous two-day curriculum, Lisa D’Aloise Real Estate Consultant and Michele Moon Senior Move Coach with the Estate Conversions Team at Keller Williams Advantage Realty have achieved the prestigious Certified Senior Housing Professional (CSHP) designation from the Seniors Real Estate Institute.

Awarded only to a select number of real estate professionals in any market, the CSHP designation equips senior housing professionals to serve the distinct needs of seniors and their families with an unsurpassed level of compassion, expertise and connectedness.

Demographic shifts and improvements in life expectancy have given rise to senior housing options that far exceed those of previous decades. CSHPs are not only in touch with the full range of options within their communities, they have the specific skills needed to help seniors to get where they want to go – unraveling the complexities involved in downsizing and selling a family home.

“Despite the fact that seniors are the fastest growing segment of the population, this segment of the market remains largely underserved,” noted Nikki Buckelew, Founder and President of the Seniors Real Estate Institute.

Buckelew, who has a graduate degree in gerontology, pointed to the fact that 10,000 Baby Boomers will turn 60 every day for the next 18 years. At the other end of the senior spectrum, the 90-plus segment of the population nearly tripled over the past three decades, and is expected to quadruple over the next 40 years.

“Professionals such as Lisa and Michele have a clear vision of how the real estate market is evolving,” Buckelew added. “As such, they have sought out the training, the resources, and the access to trusted experts within the Orlando market, in order to serve senior clients and their families at a high level.”

“This expertise, combined with a passion to ensure the dignity of elderly clients, is not just a benefit to seniors and their families,” Buckelew emphasized. “It’s a profound asset to the entire community.”

For more information on the Seniors Real Estate Institute or the Certified Senior Housing Professional Designation, visit seniorsrealestateinstitute.com

Contact Information

Lisa D'Aloise
407-234-5074

Contact
www.estateconversions.com/