Affordable Home Care is an Option

(6/25/2006) OMAHA, Nebraska — The rising cost of care for the elderly in the United States has been the focus of alarming headlines for families facing decisions about the long-term care of senior loved ones. But as families explore the economics of care options, most realize affordable care is available, especially for those wishing to stay in their own homes.

“In the past, when a family faced the decision to seek care for a senior, it was assumed they faced the cost of a nursing home or assisted living facility” said Allen Hager, Founder of Right at Home. “Now, people are living longer and in better health than they used to. More seniors are able to stay in the comfort of their home because affordable in-home care is an option.”

According to Hager, the in-home supportive care industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years, fueled largely by the demand for high-quality, personalized care and the desire to maintain independence and keep living life to the fullest. Where seniors once moved into a facility if they had problems completing daily household chores, supportive care options bring the assistance the senior needs to his or her door.

“Seniors and families who pursue in-home supportive care enjoy the flexibility, comfort and peace of mind of having a trained caregiver on hand to provide the assistance needed to continue an active, social lifestyle,” said Hager. “Seniors want to keep the lifestyle they choose, and they see it as a good investment to maintain their independence.”

Changing along with the misconception that seniors of a certain age must move to a care facility is the myth that in-home care is only available for wealthy seniors. Because in-home supportive care is tailored to meet the needs of the senior and family members, the care can be matched to most any budget.

“Across the country, Right at Home provides in-home supportive care for seniors of many different income levels,” said Hager. “Our clients come from all walks of life. They are former teachers, business leaders, policemen, doctors, secretaries and accountants. When we sit down with a client to discuss options, a lot of them are surprised at the level of care we can provide on their budget.”

The key to long-term care planning, according to Hager, is for families and seniors to consider all factors involved and gather as much information as possible. Seniors should think about how much care and assistance they need, how much support family members can provide, where the senior will be most comfortable, and what economic resources are available. Families also should talk to organizations that provide care to get the facts on the services available.

“When it comes time to make a decision about the care of an older relative, families need to explore all of their care options,” Hager advised. “Twenty-four hour a day care in an institutional setting is not always the best fit, financially or emotionally, for an aging parent or relative. Families should seek out those services and resources that can meet their care needs in terms of costs and the quality of life they provide.”