Maine Senior Living

From breath-taking ocean views to lush forest expanses, Maine is a beautiful state in which to retire. This idyllic northeastern state has a lot to offer anyone looking for prime senior living options. The incredible landscape, friendly communities and fairly low cost of living make this state a wise choice for retirees.

And let's not forget about the "lobsta"! Maine is known for its abundance of fresh seafood. The gourmet foodie will love living in this seafood paradise, despite its extreme temperatures. Senior living in Maine means enjoying some incredibly beautiful summers, which are perfect for blueberry picking and hiking, but you'll have to prepare yourself for some pretty harsh winters, especially in northern coastal locations.

In 2011, the United States Census Bureau estimated that a total of 16.3% of Maine's population was over the age of 65 to the national 13.3%, which means that in spite of its northern location and severe weather, Maine senior living is a fantastic option for retirement.

Maine Assisted Living Costs

The assisted living facilities located in this state have a variety of options for retirees, including private, apartment-style homes with options for assistance in daily activities, errands and medication. All of these facilities are regulated by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services.

For independent living seniors looking to spend their golden retirement years hiking along Maine’s lush forests or rocky beaches, the cost of living is quite reasonable. In fact, on average, the monthly costs is approximately $2,427, ranging from $2,000 to $2,825 depending on the city, county and other factors. *From the SeniorHomes.com 2012 Independent Living Cost Survey. (http://www.seniorhomes.com/p/independent-living-costs/)

Retirement in Maine

With a myriad of outdoor activities centered around the mountains, ocean and Maine's many lakes, the state offers a host of beauty, splendor and entertainment to those wanting to retire with such opportunities. 

Maine's cost of living is just below the national average, though in Portland, where approximately 20% of the state's population resides, it is slightly higher than the national average. Income tax is based on a graduating scale between 2% and 8.5%, and the state has an across-the-board sales tax of 5%. *Mainehomeconnection.com

Properties in this state are far below the national average. While the average property in Maine will cost about $190,249, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, national property prices are averaging about $283,125. *ABC Real Estate Directory 2012

Did you know that...?

• Maine does not allow its townships and counties to charge additional sales tax. Food and prescription drugs are not taxed. *www.kiplinger.com
• Social Security benefits are not taxed. There is no inheritance tax, and estates under $1 million are not taxed. Estates over $1 million are taxed between less than 1% and 16%, though in 2013 this will change to a $2 million limit. *www.kiplinger.com
• Veterans and those who are legally blind are eligible to receive significant tax exemptions. *www.kiplinger.com

Best Cities in Maine for Retirees

In Portland, there is a slightly higher cost of living than the rest of the state, yet it offers a wide variety of activities, art, and culinary delight. This coastal city has museums and urban entertainment, but is only a short drive from the wilderness of Maine's lakes and forestlands. Portland was listed by the AARP as one of the top ten cities for retirees in 2011. 

For those desiring to flee the busyness of city life, small towns in Maine are a fantastic option that offer rugged and outdoor opportunities. Towns, such as Bar Harbor, are situated along Maine's beautiful coastline, with rustic ocean views and lots of fresh-lobster dining.

Health Care in Maine

Maine has a total of 39 hospitals; as the state is comprised of mostly rural residences, 24 of those hospitals are located in small towns and communities.

The state has also incorporated several medical assistance programs for seniors. Partnership for Healthy Aging is a government-sanctioned program that assists seniors in self-management with chronic diseases or disabilities, as well as enhancing balance, fitness and overall wellness. 

Quick Medical Guide for Maine:

• Full list of local hospitals and medical centers
  
• Best Maine Hospitals: Consumer Reports Ratings
• Maine Health Care Association (MHCA): Non-Profit Senior Health

Activities for Seniors in Maine

The Pine Tree State is famous for its outdoor life. While the more largely populated areas are laced with art, museums and more urban offerings, much of Maine is focused on fishing, hunting, hiking, boating and beach enjoyment. Maine has an incredible coastline of 3,478 miles (greater than California's coastline) that is peppered with numerous small islands.

Local Weather

As in many other northern states, January is usually Maine's coldest month, and while Maine occasionally experiences hurricanes, more often than not it receives no significant damage from such storms. Winter weather systems and snow can provide generous precipitation, and summers are usually warm and mild. Find Maine's current weather!

Sharp Seniors has 5 Senior Living Facilities in Maine

• 5 of them offer Senior Living
• 2 of them offer Alzheimer's Care
• 2 of them offer Assisted Living
• 1 of them offer Respite