What Is Home Care and How Much Does it Cost?

Many older adults are preferring to age in place. A 2018 AARP survey states 3 out of 4 Americans over 50 hope to stay in their current home for as long as possible. The convenience and ease of receiving homecare services may seem like the ideal option, however, there are a variety of factors to consider when deciding if it’s the right choice for your loved one. Paying for Senior care provides an overview of what homecare is and its current costs:

What is home care services?

Home care is non-medical caregiving and assistance seniors can receive within the comfort of their own homes. Homecare doesn’t include any medical services or therapy, but rather assistance with daily living activities (ADLs). ADLs include bathing, meal preparation, transferring, companionship, transportation, and more. Depending on your loved one’s situation, they can receive home care anywhere from one hour a week to 24 hours a day.

It is common for home care to act as an alternative to assisted living for older adults who prefer to live independently. Homecare can be the better option for your loved one if they fit the following criteria:

Who is a good fit for home care?

• Older adults with weak mobility who need help moving safely around their homes.
• Older adults with a decline in their motor skills who need help with daily household tasks (prepping meals, feeding pets, etc.)
• Older adults who no longer have the ability to drive and need transportation for their essential activities (visiting family, attending appointments, etc.)
• Older adults in the early stages of memory loss.
• Older adults who need assistance in housekeeping (cleaning, grocery shopping, etc.)

While home care is a great option for some seniors, it’s not the right choice of care for everyone.

Who is not a good fit for home care?

• Older adults who seek companionship more from their peers rather than a caregiver.
• Older adults who are required to have nursing or medical care
• Older adults who need physical, occupational, or speech therapy services at home.
• Older adults in a high stage of memory impairment who need a secure environment and around-the-clock care.
• Older adults who want an all-inclusive lifestyle that is offered in several senior living communities.

How much does home care cost?

The costs of all forms of care can vary by state. According to Genworth Financial’s Cost of Care Survey, the national average cost of care in 2022 is $5,302 monthly. However, the average cost of in-home care in California is $6,284 monthly. This makes it more expensive than an assisted living facility in California which is $5,408 monthly. In-home care is still the cheaper option compared to a nursing home which is $12,532 monthly for a private room in California. Based on the latest increases in care, Genworth predicts the monthly costs to increase by around $200 every year. In 2023, in-home care is predicted to be $6,473.

For more questions, 1+1 Cares provides more information on in-home care and how to afford its costs.

1+1 Cares is a referral agency that works for clients and caregivers. We match caregivers with clients and inform them of your requirements. We work for you so you and your loved one can have a safe, enjoyable caregiving experience. Get Homecare services for your loved one today!