Optimized Senior Living in Lebanon, OH
SaveInterior
Decor
Living Room
Building
Architecture
Bedroom
Trees
Windows
Dining
Kitchen
Lighting
Fireplace
Appliances
Salon
150 Rough Way, Lebanon, OH 45036
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
At Optimized Senior Living, the monthly cost for a one-bedroom unit is set at $6,000, which reflects a commitment to providing high-quality amenities and services tailored specifically for seniors. In comparison, Warren County presents a more economical option with costs around $4,345 for similar accommodations. Meanwhile, the broader state average in Ohio shows even lower pricing at approximately $3,712 per month. While these alternatives may offer basic housing solutions, Optimized Senior Living distinguishes itself through its enhanced living experience and dedicated support services that cater to the unique needs of seniors seeking both comfort and community engagement.
| Floor plans | Optimized Senior Living | Warren County | Ohio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $6,000 | $4,345 | $3,712 |
The team at Optimized Senior Living consistently delivers excellent service and collaboration. The staff are helpful in every step of the process, showing professionalism and care. The staff and administration provide exceptional care for residents, earning high recommendations. The care team is devoted and compassionate, making residents feel like family. The community offers a warm, home-like environment with a small-house concept. Residents are engaged in daily activities and treated with respect and dignity. Ownership and leadership are dedicated to personalized, high-quality care. The facility is clean, modern, and welcoming to residents and visitors. Communication with directors and nurses is clear, timely, and empathetic. The team goes above and beyond to support families during transitions and care needs. Families repeatedly recommend Optimized Senior Living for safe, loving care. The staff demonstrate patience, kindness, and professionalism, creating a supportive atmosphere.
One reviewer would give zero stars, calling the care atrocious, noting frozen meals, failure to meet low-salt dietary needs, substandard care, and rude staff. Several reviews allege the facility hires untrained staff or family members (sometimes teenagers) who are not certified aides and sometimes dispense medications, calling the place terrible. It was noted that the facility has ongoing staff turnover, indicating instability. The website was described as out of date, and a prospective contact could not answer fundamental questions. The rooms were criticized as too small for a wheelchair.Optimized Senior Living in Lebanon, Ohio is best suited for families seeking a warm, home-like setting where seniors are treated as family and daily life centers on engagement, comfort, and personalized care. This community excels for residents who value a small-house vibe, not a sprawling campus, and who respond well to a family-run culture. The layout emphasizes independent living within a purpose-built, residence-like environment: individual homes connected to a central gathering space, on-site kitchens, open living areas, and patios that encourage socializing without the clinical feel of larger institutions. For many families, that combination translates into meaningful daily routines, visible staff attentiveness, and a sense that a loved one is truly known and cared for.
That said, alternatives deserve consideration for certain situations. Those with complex medical needs requiring constant, hospital-grade nursing and around-the-clock physician oversight may find larger facilities more suitable. Likewise, families navigating advanced memory-care challenges or requiring highly specialized equipment and staffing ratios might prefer communities designed specifically for high-acuity conditions. A few reviewers note that communication about care plans and end-of-life status can occasionally fall short, underscoring the importance of asking hard questions early. For residents who need very wide doorways, oversized bathrooms, or more institutionalized environments, the intimate home model may feel limiting.
The core strengths of Optimized Senior Living skew strongly toward the personal, the present, and the participatory. The small-house concept creates a genuine sense of family, with caregivers who know residents by name and rhythms. The caregiver-to-resident ratio, repeatedly praised by families and health partners, translates into responsive care, frequent check-ins, and smoother daily management of meals, activities, and personal needs. The leadership - often cited as hands-on, communicative, and deeply invested - facilitates transparent scheduling, timely updates, and an approachable point of contact for questions. Residents are kept active through structured daily programs, social events, and opportunities to participate in meals and gatherings with other residents, which many families view as critical for emotional well-being.
Equally important is the quality of the human connection. Staff are described as patient, kind, and genuinely invested in each person's comfort and dignity. Family members repeatedly praise how the team builds relationships, communicates respectfully, and honors personal preferences - from meals to routines to small acts of companionship. The environment supports autonomy and dignity, often feeling like a welcome extension of home. The on-site amenities - home-cooked meals, a communal kitchen, pet-friendly moments with a dog on campus, and opportunities for haircuts or massages - further reinforce a holistic approach that treats residents as nuanced individuals rather than just residents. For families seeking peace of mind, these elements frequently translate into fewer worries about day-to-day care.
Nevertheless, several caveats emerge from the broader set of reviews. A few experiences highlight inconsistency, most notably around meal quality in isolated cases and concerns about staff continuity or turnover. One reviewer described meals that did not align with low-sodium dietary needs, coupled with perceptions of suboptimal care and discourteous service. Another commenter noted that bathroom space can be cramped for wheelchair users, a practical reminder that room layouts, while charming, must align with individual mobility requirements. A separate critique pointed to a less current website experience and gaps in prospective-gamily communication, suggesting the need for potential residents to verify information directly with admissions. Taken together, these outlier experiences signal that while the core model works beautifully for many, prospective families should validate care standards, staffing stability, and accessibility before committing.
In practical terms, the strongest offset to these potential drawbacks is the demonstrated commitment to personalized, family-centered care. The owners' hands-on involvement, coupled with a responsive Director of Nursing, tends to translate into open lines of communication and tailored care plans. The small-house format, matched with proactive family engagement and a robust activity calendar, supports meaningful daytime engagement and reduces the sense of abandonment that can accompany aging in place elsewhere. For families weighing options, Optimized Senior Living represents a compelling balance: a high-touch, affectionate culture and a transparent, cost-conscious model that often undercuts larger facilities without sacrificing warmth or safety. The decision hinges on whether the resident's medical needs align with the facility's capabilities and whether the home-like atmosphere aligns with the family's expectations for care, comfort, and community.
The upshot is clear. This community is a strong match for elders who want a true home environment, close-knit staff relationships, and personalized attention, delivered within a well-run, family-owned framework. Families should come prepared to see how meals, mobility, and activity planning are executed day-to-day, and to confirm that staffing levels and care protocols meet their loved one's medical and cognitive needs. Tour thoroughly, ask concrete questions about memory-care supports, respite options, and what a typical day looks like, and request direct conversations with the director and owners. When alignment exists, Optimized Senior Living delivers a practical, compassionate, and reassuring path for aging in place that many families will find hard to beat.
15 resident community capacity
Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
Beautician on-siteHaving a beautician on-site at a senior living community is important for seniors as it allows them to easily access grooming and personal care services, boosting their self-esteem and overall well-being. It also provides convenience and helps seniors maintain their sense of independence and personal style. Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
Devotional services off-siteDevotional services off-site are important for seniors as they provide spiritual nourishment, social engagement, and a sense of community outside of the senior living facility. This can enhance overall well-being and help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by older adults. Devotional services on-siteDevotional services on-site provide seniors with spiritual support and a sense of community, as well as an opportunity for reflection and guidance during their senior living experience. This can promote emotional well-being and connection to others, leading to a more fulfilling and enriching lifestyle in their later years.
Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
Handicap accessible"Handicap accessible" amenities are crucial for seniors to ensure they can easily navigate and access facilities, services, and activities without barriers or limitations due to physical impairments. This promotes independence, safety, and inclusivity for seniors in senior living communities.
Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
Outdoor common areasOutdoor common areas are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, physical activity, and relaxation. Being outside in nature can improve mood and overall well-being, while also encouraging movement and engagement with others. These spaces can help combat feelings of isolation and promote a sense of community among residents. Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
Pet friendly"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
Respite or short term stays offeredRespite or short term stays provide seniors with a temporary solution when their regular caregiver is unavailable, offering them the opportunity to receive additional care and support during times of need, while also giving caregivers a chance to rest and recharge.
Wheelchair accessible showersWheelchair accessible showers are crucial for seniors as they provide a safe and independent bathing option for those with mobility challenges. These showers help prevent falls and allow seniors to maintain their dignity and autonomy while ensuring they can bathe comfortably.
Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.
12-16 hour nursing12-16 hour nursing care is crucial for seniors in order to ensure around-the-clock monitoring, timely medication administration, and prompt response to any health concerns or emergencies. This level of care helps to promote the overall well-being and safety of seniors living in senior living communities.
24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security. Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
Incontinence careIncontinence care is essential for seniors to maintain their dignity, hygiene, and overall quality of life. By addressing incontinence issues promptly and effectively, seniors can enjoy a sense of independence and comfort in their daily activities.
Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Anytime diningAnytime dining is important for seniors because it allows them the flexibility to eat when they are hungry, rather than being restricted to set meal times. This can be especially beneficial for those with medical conditions or medications that affect their appetite, as well as those who may have difficulty adhering to a strict dining schedule. Overall, anytime dining promotes independence and overall well-being for seniors in senior living communities. Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Gluten-freeGluten-free options are important for seniors as they are more prone to digestive issues and dietary sensitivities. Offering gluten-free meal choices in senior living communities can help improve their overall health and well-being. Low / no sodiumLow/no sodium options are important for seniors because excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health issues commonly experienced by older adults. By choosing low/no sodium foods, seniors can better manage their health and reduce their risk of developing these conditions. Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities. No SugarNo sugar diets are important for seniors because they can help prevent or manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Sugar can also contribute to cognitive decline and inflammation in the body, so reducing sugar intake can lead to overall improved health and well-being in older adults. Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. VeganVegan diets can provide numerous health benefits for seniors, including lower risk of chronic diseases, improved digestion, and increased energy levels. Additionally, plant-based diets are often rich in essential nutrients that can support overall well-being and longevity in older adults. VegetarianA vegetarian diet is important for seniors because it can help lower the risk of chronic diseases, maintain a healthy weight, and provide essential nutrients needed for aging bodies. Additionally, plant-based diets are often easier on digestive systems and can contribute to overall well-being in older adults. Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
Art classesArt classes are important for seniors because they provide a creative outlet, improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, promote socialization, and enhance overall well-being and quality of life. Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults. Devotional activities offsiteDevotional activities offsite are important for seniors because they provide social engagement, spiritual growth, and a sense of community outside of their living environment. This can improve overall well-being, mental health, and combat feelings of isolation or loneliness. Devotional activities on-siteDevotional activities on-site provide seniors with a sense of community, spiritual fulfillment, and emotional support, promoting overall well-being and a positive sense of purpose in their lives.
Educational speakers / life long learningEducational speakers and lifelong learning opportunities are crucial for seniors as they provide mental stimulation, promote social engagement, and contribute to overall well-being. Continuous learning helps seniors stay mentally sharp, build new skills, and maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their lives. It also allows them to stay connected to the world around them and fosters a sense of community within senior living facilities.
Live musical performancesLive musical performances can provide seniors with a sense of joy, nostalgia, and connection. Music has the power to evoke emotions and memories, improve mood and cognitive function, and foster social interaction among seniors. It can also serve as a form of therapy and stress relief for older adults, making it an important activity to include in senior living communities.
Live well programs"Live well programs are essential for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social engagement, and mental stimulation, ultimately promoting overall health and well-being in later years." Other religious servicesOther religious services are important for seniors as they provide a sense of community, spiritual comfort, and opportunities for socializing. These services can help seniors feel connected to their faith and maintain a sense of purpose and belonging in their later years. Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting. Stretching classesStretching classes are important for seniors because they help improve flexibility, reduce the risk of injury, and promote overall health and well-being. Regular stretching can also help alleviate joint pain and stiffness, enhance balance and coordination, and increase range of motion.
Wii bowlingWii bowling is important for seniors as it provides a fun and engaging way to stay active, socialize, and improve hand-eye coordination. It can help prevent isolation, boost mental well-being, and promote physical fitness in a safe and accessible manner. Yoga / chair yogaYoga and chair yoga are important for seniors as they promote flexibility, balance, strength, and overall wellbeing. These practices can help improve mobility, reduce stress, and enhance mental clarity, ultimately leading to a higher quality of life in their senior years.Welcome to our optimized senior living community in Lebanon, OH! Our community is equipped with all the amenities and care services necessary to provide a comfortable and enjoyable living experience for our residents.
In terms of amenities, each resident can enjoy air-conditioned rooms that are fully furnished for convenience. Our on-site beautician and beauty salon ensure that residents can always look and feel their best. Cable or satellite TV is available for entertainment purposes, and devotional services are provided both on-site and off-site.
We understand the importance of a well-maintained living environment, which is why we offer housekeeping services to keep common areas clean. Residents can also enjoy spending time in our indoor and outdoor spaces, including a beautiful garden where they can relax and admire nature.
Pet owners will be pleased to know that we are a pet-friendly community, allowing them to bring their furry friends along. Private bathrooms with wheelchair accessible showers are available to ensure safety and ease of use. Wi-Fi/high-speed internet is also provided for residents who want to stay connected with loved ones or access online resources.
When it comes to care services, our highly trained staff provides 24-hour supervision, assisting with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. We offer specialized diabetes diets as well as incontinence care. Medication management ensures that residents receive their medications on time.
Dining is an important aspect of our community, which is why we provide a variety of options to accommodate different dietary needs. We offer meals that cater to diabetes diets, gluten-free diets, low/no sodium diets, no sugar diets, special dietary restrictions, as well as vegan and vegetarian options.
Our community encourages an active lifestyle through various activities such as art classes, educational speakers/life-long learning sessions, live musical performances, stretching classes, Wii bowling, yoga/chair yoga sessions, and more. Community-sponsored activities foster social connections among residents.
For added convenience outside our community, there are parks, pharmacies, and restaurants located nearby.
At our optimized senior living community in Lebanon, OH, we strive to provide a comfortable and enriching lifestyle for our residents. With our array of amenities, care services, dining options, and engaging activities, residents can enjoy their retirement years to the fullest.
This particular part of Lebanon, Ohio offers a variety of amenities within close proximity. There are several pharmacies nearby, including CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart Pharmacy, making it convenient to access necessary medications. Additionally, there are numerous dining options such as El Picante, Wendy's, and McDonald's for quick meals or dine-in experiences. For outdoor recreation, residents can enjoy parks like Armco Park and Fleckenstein Park for leisurely walks or picnics. Medical services are also readily available with facilities like Middletown Cardiology Associates and Cincinnati Eye Institute within a short drive. Places of worship such as Axis Christian Church and Heritage Presbyterian Church provide spiritual support for individuals seeking a community connection. In case of emergencies, hospitals like Atrium Medical Center and West Chester Hospital are easily accessible. Overall, this area offers convenience and accessibility for seniors looking to reside in Lebanon.
At Optimized Senior Living, the monthly cost for a one-bedroom unit is set at $6,000, which reflects a commitment to providing high-quality amenities and services tailored specifically for seniors. In comparison, Warren County presents a more economical option with costs around $4,345 for similar accommodations. Meanwhile, the broader state average in Ohio shows even lower pricing at approximately $3,712 per month. While these alternatives may offer basic housing solutions, Optimized Senior Living distinguishes itself through its enhanced living experience and dedicated support services that cater to the unique needs of seniors seeking both comfort and community engagement.
Optimized Senior Living is located at 150 Rough Way, Lebanon, OH 45036 in Warren County, Ohio
Optimized Senior Living on seniors.fyi includes 21 photos including images showing bedroom, interior, decor, living room, kitchen, building, windows, bathroom, and more.
Traditions of Lebanon
Lebanon, OH
Caring staff with engaging activities and spacious, home-like living spaces.
Cedars Of Lebanon Care Center
Lebanon, OH
Cozy, home-like setting with 24/7 care and restaurant-style dining
Herkins House
Lebanon, OH
Nearby parks, pharmacies, and dining options enhance convenience and quality of life.
Lebanon Health Care Center
Lebanon, OH
Extensive amenities and 24/7 care.
Cedarview Care Center
Lebanon, OH
Extensive on-site care and amenities (24/7 supervision, nursing, meals, transport, wellness programs, and activities).
Otterbein Lebanon SeniorLife Community
Lebanon, OH
Compassionate staff with engaging activities in a spacious, amenity-rich community.
Otterbein Lebanon
Lebanon, OH
Multiple care levels (CCRC, Independent Living, Memory Care) with comprehensive amenities and services.
Otterbein Middletown
Franklin, OH
Friendly, attentive staff and a home-like cottage setting with on-site homemade meals.
Bickford Of Middletown
Franklin, OH
Attentive staff, clean welcoming atmosphere, and restaurant-style dining with engaging activities.
Senior Transition Services: Understanding Their Role, Cost, and Importance
Senior move management services assist older adults in the relocation process by providing emotional support and organizational help, addressing unique challenges like downsizing and moving from long-term homes. These specialists collaborate with real estate agents and manage logistics, making the transition smoother for seniors and their families.
Exploring the Path to Senior Living: A Comprehensive Look at Independent Living and Assisted Living
The article examines senior housing options, detailing the distinctions between independent living and assisted living, along with the emerging "independent assisted living" model that blends both approaches. It highlights the importance of assessing individual needs, preferences, and financial factors in making informed decisions about suitable living arrangements for seniors.
The deductibility of assisted living expenses on taxes hinges on factors like the individual's medical condition and service nature, typically requiring the resident to be "chronically ill" per IRS definitions. Taxpayers may deduct eligible medical expenses related to personal care services but generally not rent unless primarily for medical care, and they should maintain thorough documentation to support claims while considering itemizing versus standard deductions.
Interior
Decor
Living Room
Building
Architecture
Bedroom
Trees
Windows
Dining
Kitchen
Lighting
Fireplace
Appliances
Salon
Is Assisted Living Deductible on Your Taxes? Understanding the Complexities of Assisted Living Expenses and Deductions