Long-term adult care is one of the biggest financial challenges families face, yet few are truly prepared for its cost. Whether you're supporting an aging parent, a spouse with chronic health needs, or another loved one requiring daily assistance, the price of care can feel overwhelming. With the right approach, however, you can find ways to manage expenses without sacrificing quality.
The cost of long-term care depends on several factors, including the level of support required, the setting (at home, in an assisted living facility, or a nursing home), and your location. In-home care might start at $25 per hour, while assisted living facilities can charge anywhere from $4,500 to $6,000 per month. For those requiring round-the-clock skilled nursing, the price can exceed $100,000 per year. These numbers can be staggering, but with careful planning, financial assistance, and flexible care options, families can navigate these costs effectively.
One of the first steps is to assess exactly what level of care is needed now—and anticipate what may be needed in the future. Some individuals only require help with basic daily tasks like meal preparation and mobility, while others need medical care or memory support. If full-time skilled care isn’t necessary, combining family support with professional assistance for specific tasks can significantly reduce costs.
Medicaid is one of the largest funders of long-term care, covering a range of services from home health aides to nursing home stays. However, qualifying for Medicaid can be complex due to strict income and asset limits. If your loved one is approaching the need for long-term care, early financial planning can help preserve assets while ensuring eligibility for benefits. Consulting with an elder law attorney or a Medicaid planning specialist may be worth the investment.
For those who don’t qualify for Medicaid, long-term care insurance is another potential funding source—though policies are best secured years before care is needed. If your loved one has a policy, review it carefully to understand what’s covered, including any waiting periods before benefits kick in. Some policies will reimburse for in-home care or adult day programs, which can be more affordable alternatives to full-time facility care.
Another option is veterans' benefits. The VA offers programs that help cover home care, assisted living, and skilled nursing for eligible veterans and their spouses. If your loved one has served, it’s worth checking with the VA to see what assistance is available.
For many families, out-of-pocket costs remain a reality, but creative solutions can help reduce financial strain. Some states offer family caregiver payment programs, allowing relatives to be compensated for providing care. Others turn to hybrid care models—such as combining part-time paid care with unpaid family support—to stretch resources further.
Finding the right care shouldn’t be limited by finances. That’s where Helpr comes in. We offer subsidized adult care, with options ranging from companionship and family-provided care to center-based adult care and professional caregiver matching.
Quality care should be accessible, no matter your budget.
