13 Best Local Searches for Finding Local Senior Living Communities

7. Genworth Cost of Care Survey and State-Specific Resources

The Genworth Cost of Care Survey provides essential financial context for senior living searches by offering comprehensive data about average costs for different types of care in specific geographic regions, helping families establish realistic budget parameters before beginning their community search. This annual survey breaks down costs by state and metropolitan area, providing detailed information about pricing trends for home care, adult day care, assisted living, and nursing home care that enables families to understand local market conditions and plan accordingly. The survey's historical data allows families to identify cost trends and project future expenses, which is particularly valuable for long-term financial planning and determining whether specific communities represent good value relative to regional averages. State-specific resources often complement the Genworth data by providing information about local regulations, licensing requirements, and quality standards that affect senior living communities in particular areas. Many states maintain databases of licensed facilities that include inspection reports, violation histories, and compliance records that help families evaluate community safety and quality beyond marketing materials and tours. State aging departments frequently offer additional resources such as ombudsman programs, consumer guides, and educational materials that help families understand their rights and identify red flags during the selection process. These official resources also provide information about state-specific programs that might help offset senior living costs, such as Medicaid waiver programs, veteran benefits, or state-funded assistance programs that could make certain communities more affordable. Understanding both cost benchmarks and regulatory frameworks helps families make more informed decisions and identify communities that offer appropriate value and meet established quality standards.