When it comes to finding the right care for a family member, choosing between assisted living communities and in-home care can feel overwhelming. The choice is deeply personal and depends on a variety of factors, including family finances, the emotional toll of caregiving and quality of life for the person who needs assistance.
Understanding the true cost of care will better prepare you to make the best decision for your family.
Costs of In-Home Care
While most older adults prefer to stay in their home, the expenses associated with in-home care can be staggering. According to The Wall Street Journal, the median cost of round-the-clock, in-home care is $290,000 per year – that’s more than four times the average cost of a private apartment in an assisted living community.
To provide in-home care, many families will deplete their savings, take out home-equity lines of credit or delay retirement plans to cover the expenses. Financing care for an older adult can also cause stress for caregivers who have no way to predict how long they’ll need to pay for or personally provide care.
Assisted living may offer a sustainable solution. The costs are generally lower and more predictable than in-home care, making it a good option for those looking to preserve long-term financial stability.
Emotional and Physical Strain on Caregivers
Caring for a family member at home is often accompanied by intense emotional and physical demands. Family caregivers frequently experience burnout and may struggle to balance caregiving with other responsibilities. A survey by AARP shows that more than half of caregivers feel increased stress and anxiety.
When families do seek help from in-home care, they often report that finding and retaining reliable caregivers presents its own challenge. Due to high turnover rates, many families face constant uncertainty, causing them to worry about the future.
Impact on Family Dynamics
Caring for a parent or spouse at home can disrupt family dynamics, including lifestyle changes, strained relationships and career setbacks. The Wall Street Journal notes that many family caregivers put their lives on hold to provide care for relatives. Caregivers who have family members experiencing cognitive decline may face additional stress and anxiety as the disease progresses and round-the-clock care is needed.
On the other hand, families often find that assisted living provides reliable and professional care, along with housekeeping, meals and transportation to appointments – freeing families to spend meaningful time together rather than managing tasks.
“It was difficult to transition from my home to an apartment,” says Becky, an interior decorator who decided to move to senior living after her husband passed away. “But at the end of the moving process, I called my daughter to thank her because I felt such relief.”
Quality of Life Considerations
Many older adults insist on staying in their long-time home because it’s familiar, and they may feel more independent by resisting care. But the amenities, services and events communities provide can support social engagement and overall well-being. From group outings and fitness classes to art lessons, assisted living fosters a sense of community and belonging that can be difficult to replicate at home.
“I’ve been really happy,” says Linda, a senior living resident who’s been in her community for a year and a half. “I’ve made good friends here. This is home to me.”
Assisted Living vs. In-Home Care
With predictable costs and reliable care, assisted living can offer a solution for families grappling with the economic and emotional pressures of providing long-term, in-home assistance. Even when finances aren’t an issue, assisted living communities remove the burden of household tasks and provide consistent care and social engagement for older adults – and peace of mind for their families.