Athens is a small city in Georgia with a population of just over 125,000 people. It has a lower percentage of seniors than the national average despite its warm summers, mild winters and low snowfall levels. The city is known for its rich Southern and antebellum history, and it’s home to national landmarks such as the Colonial-style Joseph Henry Lumpkin House and the Civil War-era Double-Barreled Cannon. Residents can take advantage of unique outdoor attractions, such as the State Botanical Garden of Georgia and the Tree That Owns Itself, a historic tree said to own the land around it.
Assisted living is a long-term residential care option for seniors who need help with daily living tasks. These tasks may include help with bathing or showering, dressing, grooming, personal hygiene and meal prep. Athens seniors pay an estimated $4,184 per month for room and board and care.
This guide includes the cost in Athens compared to other areas and a list of ways to pay for the service. It also includes a list of resources to help seniors live healthy lives and the regulatory agency that licenses assisted living communities.
Hundreds of thousands of American seniors utilize assisted living, a figure that is only growing. For these seniors, assisted living combines residential housing,assistance in daily activities, and some healthcare. These communities also strive to provide an atmosphere that is comfortable and engaging for their residents… Read More >
COVID-19 restrictions and rules for Assisted Living Facilities are typically set by the state – to see the rules in your state, you can read our guide to Assisted Living in Georgia. Keep in mind that there may be other policies that communities put in place to protect their residents, so you should contact your local community for more information. Additionally, you can contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more – find contact information here.
Athens assisted living costs an average of $4,184 per month for seniors, though this number varies widely depending on the level of services required.
According to Genworth’s 2021 Cost of Care Survey, assisted living communities in Athens have an estimated cost of $4,184 per month. The average monthly cost for the state is less at $3,535, while the national average is slightly more at $4,500.
Costs for assisted living care in Georgia vary depending on many different factors, including city location, number of amenities and housing options. Athens assisted living communities are moderately priced at $4,184 per month. Rome and Columbus have higher costs than those in Athens, at $4,293 and $4,223 per month, respectively. To the north in Gainesville, the cost is slightly lower at $3,893 per month. To the south in Savannah near Atlantic beaches, assisted living costs are around $3,513, which is around $671 less than Athens. Seniors in the capital city of Atlanta can expect to pay around $3,845 per month.
Since not everyone can afford to pay for assisted living out-of-pocket, it’s important to find alternative methods to help make assisted living more affordable. Some of these options include:
For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Assisted Living in Georgia.
Contact | Description | |
Northeast Georgia Area Agency on Aging | (706) 583-2546 | As the Area Agency on Aging, this state-run organization offers an array of community programs designed to enrich the lives of local seniors. Social services such as case management and legal assistance are available here, and Long-Term Care Ombudsmen work to prevent elder abuse in care home environments. A Community Senior Employment Program provides on-the-job training to help elders secure part-time employment. |
Athens Community Council on Aging | (706) 549-4850 | This city-run body operates the Center for Active Living, which offers an array of fitness classes designed for seniors. Adults 50 and older can participate in outings to local attractions and live events, as well as enjoy nutritious communal meals. Transportation services are provided to and from the Center with the purchase of a premium membership. |
Veterans of Foreign Wars | (706) 354-6942 | Veterans, their families and their caregivers can access advocacy and assistance services here. Experts are available to help with VA benefits applications and appeals. The Unmet Needs Program provides grants to help seniors pay for basic life needs, and a crisis line offers mental health care over the phone. |
Georgia Aging and Disability Resource Connection | (706) 414-2888 | This organization runs a resource center designed to help seniors make easy transitions into long-term care environments. Seniors can get assistance applying for financial aid, assessing their care needs and locating trusted care resources. |
Oconee County Senior Center | (706) 769-3979 | A day program includes exercise classes, game nights and life-long learning opportunities such as computer and arts instruction. Seniors can participate in social events, holiday celebrations and group outings. Health services, such as blood pressure screenings, are also available. |
Assisted Living Facilities in the Athens area are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined at the state level. For an overview of those rules and regulations, see the information below. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.