The Cost of Home Care vs. Assisted Living

Home Care Costs in Comparison With Assisted Living Expenses

Understanding the options for getting your loved one the care they need is multifaceted. You want to ensure they are getting the care they need. Quality, comfort, and services available all must be factored in. Inevitably, you also have to count home care costs or the costs of an assisted living facility.

The Difference between Home Care and Assisted Living

The main options for seniors in need of care are home care or assisted living. Home care is provided in your loved one’s private residence. Caregivers attend to your loved one’s needs according to the services you select and during the scheduled hours you choose. Many home care agencies offer services provided through individual caregivers who are vetted and hired as qualified professionals.

An assisted living facility will require your loved one to move into a new living space. Your loved one’s living space will likely be a room  of some sort. Amenities vary widely between facilities. While living in the facility, your loved one will receive selected services and caregivers will be present at all hours. The ratio of residents to clients however is often more than fifteen to one.  Medical services are often offered in such facilities.

Home Care Costs and Assisted Living Expense Factors to Consider

Paying for care for your senior loved one can be intimidating. The costs of care range widely. They also vary by state. Some costs can be supplemented or eased through financial assistance programs or long-term care insurance.

Cost factors to consider include:

• Types of services
• Number of hours of car
• Rent or mortgages
• Home maintenance and modifications
• Healthcare proximity
• Fees for facility amenities and usage

These financial costs must also be weighed against your loved one’s wishes and preferences. It is common for people who are aging to prefer to remain independent in the comfort of their own home, even if some care assistance will be needed. Some studies have even shown that home-dwelling seniors enjoy a better quality of life than those living in facilities for the aging.

Comparing The Costs

According to a MetLife survey on long-term care costs, assisted living facilities tend to cost about $41,000 annually. Home care costs ranged from $19,000-$20,000 annually. Because home care is customized it can often be more cost effective than a facility, which is surprising to many, because home care also provides one-on-one help. These figures vary significantly by state and individual circumstances.

This helpful chart outlines some common cost factors and how they compare between home care and assisted living.

As you compare the costs of home care and assisted living financially, be sure to consider other types of costs. Your loved one’s comfort and wishes should definitely be a main factor. You should also consider costs of each situation like:

• Your loved one’s ability to continue with their hobbies and social life
• Your ability to have a say in the care your loved is receiving
• The quality and type of care and services available
• How long each option will be sustainable  financially and otherwise
• How customized each type of care can be
• Your peace of mind

These costs, although not entirely financial, can be burdensome for you, your loved one, and your family. Research and weigh your options thoroughly before making decisions regarding your loved one’s care.

Be sure to learn about financial assistance options as well. There are many ways to pay for care that may affect your decision.
Download our free guide on ways to pay for Home Care.

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