Delmar Gardens FAQ

Yes, while Delmar Gardens’ monthly fees cover a comprehensive range of amenities and services, additional costs may apply for certain care services. These additional services are typically tailored to individual needs and may include:

• Personalized Care Plans: Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and mobility.

• Medication Management: Administration and monitoring of medications by licensed professionals.

• Specialized Health Services: Services like physical therapy, occupational therapy, or specialized dietary plans.

• Enhanced Housekeeping: More frequent or specialized cleaning services beyond the standard offerings.

The exact costs for these additional services can vary based on the level and frequency of care required. It’s advisable to consult directly with the specific Delmar Gardens location you’re interested in to obtain detailed information about potential additional charges and to develop a care plan that aligns with your needs and budget.

Independent and Assisted Living accommodations are based on a one year lease.

Medicare does not cover the cost of residing in an assisted living facility, as it is not considered a medical necessity. However, Medicare does cover other medical services for individuals aged 65 and over or with certain disabilities, which may occur while residing in an assisted living facility, such as medical procedures, health screenings, doctor visits, hospital stays, and optionally, prescription drugs. Medicare also covers temporary care at a skilled nursing facility for up to 100 days per benefit period. 

Medicaid, a joint federal and state program, may provide limited coverage for assisted living in some states, including Missouri. Eligibility for Medicaid is based on income and personal resources, and the specific services covered can vary by state. In Missouri, Medicaid may cover some long-term care services at home and in the community, but eligibility and covered services vary.

For residents of Delmar Gardens or similar facilities, it’s important to consult directly with the facility and the Missouri Medicaid program to understand what services may be covered and what additional costs might apply.

Given the complexity of healthcare coverage for assisted living, it’s advisable to consult with a financial advisor or elder law attorney to explore all available options, including long-term care insurance and other financial planning tools.

Delmar Gardens does not directly offer in-house financial assistance programs. However, they collaborate with external financial services to help residents explore various funding options.

Financing Options Through ElderLife Financial Services

Delmar Gardens partners with ElderLife Financial Services, a company that assists families in navigating the financial aspects of senior living. 

• Bridge Loans: Short-term loans to cover immediate expenses while waiting for other funding sources.

• Veterans Benefits: Assistance in understanding and applying for benefits available to veterans.

• Long-Term Care Insurance: Evaluating existing policies and how they can be applied to assisted living costs.

• Real Estate Solutions: Options for leveraging home equity or selling property to fund care.

Public Assistance Programs

While Delmar Gardens does not provide direct financial aid, residents may be eligible for public assistance programs:

• Medicaid: In Missouri, Medicaid may cover certain long-term care services for eligible individuals.

• Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits: Veterans and their spouses might qualify for Aid & Attendance benefits, which can help offset assisted living costs.

• Missouri Property Tax Credit: This program offers a credit to eligible seniors and disabled individuals for a portion of the real estate taxes or rent they have paid.

It’s advisable to consult with a financial advisor or elder law attorney to explore these options and determine eligibility.

Yes, at Delmar Gardens, you can change your care plan if your needs change.

In fact, Delmar Gardens communities are designed to accommodate evolving care needs. Here’s how it typically works:

Flexible Care Plan Adjustments

• Personalized Evaluations: Your care needs are regularly assessed by medical and administrative staff. If changes in health or mobility occur, a new care plan can be developed.

• Assisted Living to Skilled Nursing: If you need a higher level of care (such as rehab or 24-hour skilled nursing), most Delmar Gardens locations offer a continuum of care, meaning you can often transition within the same community or to a nearby sister facility.

• Resident & Family Involvement: You and your family are part of the care planning process, ensuring that any changes reflect your wishes and evolving health needs.

Common Reasons for Updating a Care Plan:

• New diagnosis or medical condition

• Change in mobility or cognitive function

• Need for more help with daily tasks (e.g., dressing, medication management)

• Transition from rehab to long-term care or vice versa

If you or your loved one’s situation changes:

• Notify the care team or administrator.

• Schedule a reassessment—this is often free of charge.

• Review updated care recommendations and pricing (if applicable).

Confirm any transitions needed, whether within the community or to a more suitable setting.

Starting the financial planning process for senior living at Delmar Gardens—or any retirement community—can feel overwhelming, but it becomes manageable when broken into clear steps. Here’s how to get started:

Step-by-Step Guide to Financial Planning for Delmar Gardens

1. Determine the Type of Care Needed

• Independent Living, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing, or Memory Care?

• Delmar Gardens can help with an assessment to guide you.

2. Understand the Costs

• Request a cost breakdown from the specific Delmar Gardens location you’re considering.

• Ask for clarification on what’s included (meals, utilities, care, activities) and what might be extra (medication management, personal care).

3. Inventory Current Financial Resources

• Monthly income (Social Security, pensions, investments)

• Assets (savings, retirement accounts, property)

• Insurance policies (e.g., long-term care insurance)

4. Explore Payment Options

• Private Pay: Most common—using personal funds.

• Veterans Benefits: Especially Aid & Attendance for those who qualify.

• Long-Term Care Insurance: Check if benefits apply.

• Bridge Loans: Through partners like ElderLife Financial Services to cover short-term needs while selling a home or waiting on benefits.

• Medicaid: If eligible and services qualify.

• Missouri Property Tax Credit: May offer annual reimbursement if renting or paying property tax.

5. Schedule a Financial Consultation

• Contact Delmar Gardens and ask to speak to someone about financial planning or admissions.

• They can connect you with ElderLife Financial Services, a partner who helps families map out payment strategies at no obligation.

6. Meet with a Financial Advisor (Optional)

• A professional can help you plan for long-term needs and protect assets, especially if you’re considering Medicaid or estate planning.

Who to Call

Start by calling the admissions office at the Delmar Gardens location of interest. Ask to:

• Set up a tour

• Review pricing and services

• Discuss payment plans or financial assistance options

Yes, Delmar Gardens offers intergenerational programs at select locations, fostering meaningful connections between seniors and young children.

Intergenerational Early Childhood Education Centers (ECECs)

Delmar Gardens has pioneered intergenerational care in the St. Louis area for over 30 years. Their Early Childhood Education Centers (ECECs) are situated within certain skilled nursing facilities, allowing for regular interaction between residents and children. These programs are available at locations such as Delmar Gardens South in Sappington, Delmar Gardens North in Florissant, and Delmar Gardens of O’Fallon

Benefits of Intergenerational Programs

These programs are designed to:

• Encourage children to develop respect, kindness, and empathy towards older adults.

• Provide residents with a sense of purpose and joy through interactions with children.

• Foster a family-like environment where both age groups learn and grow together.

Activities may include shared reading sessions, arts and crafts, music, and storytelling. These interactions have been shown to enhance the well-being of seniors and contribute positively to children’s social development.

Yes, Delmar Gardens encourages residents to host family gatherings and private events. Many of their communities offer dedicated spaces designed for such occasions, ensuring that personal celebrations are just as special as they would be at home.

Private Event Spaces

Facilities like Delmar Gardens North and Delmar Gardens of O’Fallon feature private family party and meeting areas. These spaces are ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, holiday celebrations, or simply spending quality time with loved ones. Residents can reserve these areas in advance, and staff members are available to assist with setup and coordination to make your event memorable.

Booking and Amenities

To host an event, residents or their families should contact the administrative office of their specific Delmar Gardens location to check availability and make reservations. Depending on the facility, additional amenities such as catering services, audiovisual equipment, and decoration assistance may be available to enhance your gathering.

To stay informed about upcoming events at Delmar Gardens, you have several options:

1. Check the Central Events Calendar

Delmar Gardens maintains a central events page on their website, which lists activities across all their communities. While the calendar may not always display specific events, it’s a good starting point to understand the types of activities typically offered, such as social gatherings, wellness programs, and seasonal celebrations. 

2. Visit Individual Facility Pages

Each Delmar Gardens location often provides its own newsletter or activities calendar. For example, Delmar Gardens of Meramec Valley in Fenton and Delmar Gardens of Chesterfield offer downloadable brochures and activity calendars on their respective facility pages. 

3. Contact the Facility Directly

For the most current and detailed information, consider calling the specific Delmar Gardens location you’re interested in. The staff can provide you with the latest event schedules and answer any questions you may have.

Yes, Delmar Gardens offers support resources for family members, particularly through educational workshops and partnerships with local organizations.

Family Advocacy Workshops

Delmar Gardens has collaborated with VOYCE St. Louis, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering and educating families about long-term care. These workshops aim to inform family members about the rights of their loved ones in long-term care communities. For instance, a past event titled “Family Advocacy Workshop” was held at Delmar Gardens South, providing valuable insights into resident rights and care standards.

How to Learn More

To find out about upcoming workshops or support resources:

• Contact Delmar Gardens Directly: Reach out to the specific Delmar Gardens location you’re interested in. They can provide information on scheduled events and available support services.

• Visit the Delmar Gardens Website: Their official website often lists events and resources for families.

• Follow on Social Media: Delmar Gardens maintains an active presence on platforms like Facebook, where they announce events and share helpful information for families.

Yes, family members are welcome to join residents for meals and participate in activities at Delmar Gardens communities (there may be a fee). Delmar Gardens fosters a family-friendly environment, encouraging loved ones to be part of the daily life and special events of residents.

Shared Meals with Family

Delmar Gardens offers elegant dining rooms where residents can enjoy chef-prepared meals. Family members are invited to join these meals, providing an opportunity to share quality time together. While specific policies may vary by location, it’s common practice to allow guests to dine with residents. It’s advisable to contact the specific Delmar Gardens facility in advance to inquire about guest meal arrangements and any associated costs.

Participation in Activities

A vibrant lifestyle is a cornerstone of Delmar Gardens communities, with a focus on social, cultural, and recreational activities. Family members are often encouraged to participate in these events, which may include fitness classes, hobby groups, and seasonal celebrations. Engaging in these activities together can enhance the resident’s experience and strengthen family bonds.

Planning Your Visit

To ensure a smooth experience, it’s recommended to reach out to the specific Delmar Gardens location you plan to visit. The staff can provide details on upcoming events, guest policies, and any necessary arrangements for meals or activity participation.

Delmar Gardens and the broader senior care community offer a variety of resources to help families navigate senior care decisions—from financial guidance to emotional support. Here’s a breakdown of the most helpful options:

Delmar Gardens Resources

• Admissions Counselors

• Every Delmar Gardens location has experienced staff to guide you through levels of care, availability, and cost.

• They offer personalized tours, answer questions, and assist with paperwork and transitions.

• Care Planning Meetings

• Ongoing assessments and family meetings ensure your loved one’s needs are being met and adjusted when needed.

• Educational Events

• Facilities occasionally host Family Advocacy Workshops (e.g., in partnership with VOYCE St. Louis) that teach families about long-term care rights and support systems.

• Facility Newsletters & Social Media

• Stay updated on changes, activities, and policy updates through printed and digital materials.

• Financial & Legal Guidance

• ElderLife Financial Services (Partnered with Delmar Gardens)

• Offers bridge loans, veteran benefit assistance, real estate support, and help navigating long-term care insurance.

• Elder Law Attorneys

• Can help with:

• Medicaid planning

• Estate and asset protection

• Durable power of attorney

• Guardianship

• Public Benefit Resources

• Veterans Aid & Attendance Benefits

• Medicaid (if eligible)

• Missouri Property Tax Credit for eligible seniors and renters

•  Emotional & Peer Support

• Family Support Groups

• While Delmar Gardens may not have formal recurring groups at every location, they collaborate with nonprofits like VOYCE and local community organizations that offer them.

• Social Workers and Case Managers

• Available on-site to help families make difficult care decisions, manage transitions, and connect to external support services.

•  Online Tools and Planning Checklists

• Delmar Gardens’ website and brochures include detailed explanations of what’s included in care levels.
• AARP and VOYCE St. Louis offer free downloadable tools, caregiver guides, and checklists to evaluate senior care options.
  

Delmar Gardens places a strong emphasis on open and consistent communication with families to ensure they stay informed and confident in the care of their loved ones. Here’s how that communication typically works:

Direct Communication Channels

• Nursing & Care Staff Updates

• Families can call or request updates from nurses, therapists, or social workers regarding a resident’s health, medications, therapy progress, and daily well-being.

• In many locations, nurses provide updates proactively when there are any notable changes in condition.

• Family Point of Contact

• Most residents have an assigned care coordinator or social worker who serves as the primary liaison for family communication.

Scheduled Care Plan Meetings

• These meetings occur regularly (often quarterly or as needed) to discuss:

• Changes in health or mobility

• Updates to medication or therapy

• Adjustments to the care plan

• Families are encouraged to participate in person, via phone, or video call.

Written Updates & Notices

• Families may receive:

• Facility newsletters with general updates and events

• Care summaries or progress notes, especially after hospital transfers, therapy evaluations, or physician rounds

• Letters or emails about upcoming events, policy changes, or community updates

On-Demand Communication

• While Delmar Gardens does not currently use a universal mobile app, many locations offer communication via phone, email, and in some cases, secure digital platforms.

• Staff will often text or call with time-sensitive updates, such as a fall, appointment change, or urgent health matter.

Family Involvement Encouraged

• Families are welcome to:

• Join meals, activities, and events (with notice)

• Request unscheduled check-ins or meetings

• Be involved in decision-making regarding care transitions or therapies

How to Stay in the Loop

To ensure you’re fully informed:

• Provide up-to-date contact information and designate a primary family contact.

• Introduce yourself to the Administrator, Director of Nursing, and Social Services during move-in or visits.

Ask about your loved one’s next scheduled care meeting and how best to reach staff for updates.

Yes, independent living communities are subject to local housing and safety regulations, though they are not as heavily regulated as assisted living or skilled nursing facilities. Assisted living and skilled nursing facilities must meet state and federal regulations regarding care standards and operations.

Absolutely! We encourage residents to bring their favorite furniture and personal belongings to make their apartment feel like home.

The length of stay depends on medical needs. Medicare typically covers up to 100 days of skilled nursing care following a hospital stay, but long-term stays require private pay, Medicaid, or other coverage.

Yes, our skilled nursing facility provides rehabilitation services such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy to help residents recover and regain independence.

No, memory care is a specialized form of assisted living designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. Skilled nursing, on the other hand, is for those who require ongoing medical care and rehabilitation services.

Costs vary by location and level of care, but memory care generally costs more than traditional assisted living due to the specialized support provided. Contact us for specific pricing.

Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care room and board, but it may cover medical services such as doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, and short-term skilled nursing care related to a dementia diagnosis.

We provide structured daily activities, including music therapy, art therapy, social engagement, and memory-enhancing exercises tailored to residents’ cognitive abilities.

The length of stay varies based on individual recovery needs, but short-term rehabilitation typically lasts from a few weeks to a few months.

Respite care is typically paid through private funds, but some long-term care insurance policies and Medicaid waiver programs may provide partial coverage, depending on state-specific eligibility.

Respite care durations vary, ranging from a few hours to several weeks, depending on individual needs and payment sources.

Medicare may cover up to 5 consecutive days of inpatient respite care under hospice benefits but does not cover respite care outside of a hospice plan.

Costs vary based on length of stay and level of care required. Contact us for personalized pricing.

Therapy schedules are customized for each resident, with sessions available multiple times per week based on medical needs and therapy goals.

Yes, we offer post-rehabilitation care options such as assisted living, skilled nursing, or coordination with home health services based on individual needs

Medicare covers hospice care as long as a doctor certifies the patient remains eligible based on their condition.

Yes, Medicare covers home health care services, including nursing care, therapy, and medical equipment, for those who qualify.

Medicare covers home health care for as long as it remains medically necessary and the patient continues to meet eligibility requirements, with periodic reassessments.

Patients must be homebound and require skilled nursing or therapy services as prescribed by a doctor to qualify for Medicare-covered home health care.

Hospice does not typically provide 24-hour continuous care at home, but may offer intermittent visits and short periods of continuous care when medically necessary.

Medicare, Medicaid, and some private insurance plans cover hospice care costs for eligible patients.

Yes, we offer regular religious services and spiritual support for residents of all faiths.