The state of Alaska is not the first place someone would think of for senior living options, such as independent living. However, if cold weather and the outdoors are appealing, there some great reasons to retire within the state. For example, the state is a tax have because it does not levy income or sales tax on residents. Additionally, it does not tax pensions or Social Security income. Outgoing seniors would find a variety of sights and places to explore within America’s last great frontier. Independent living in Alaska would include retirement communities, senior living communities, or independent retirement communities. Assisted living facilities would consist of things such as nursing homes and homes for seniors who choose not to live independently. Assisted living is generally described as having help with one or more activities of daily living. Within the state of Alaska, the Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Health Care Services monitors the assisted living services provided to seniors.
According to the Alaska State Plan for Senior Services 2016 – 2019, many seniors within the state are concerned about access to health care in their communities. When the data was gathered, the availability of senior housing was an issue in need of improvement. Services for seniors that promote aging in place was a common theme brought up among seniors who were surveyed. Retiring in Alaska, however, is a costlier endeavor when compared to other states. The remoteness of the communities and the cold weather does increase living costs. For example, home health care costs average approximately $5,000 per month, and adult day care fees average around $3,500 per month.
