What Is the Cost of Assisted Living vs. In-Home Care?

At one point in our loved ones' lives, we have to make a decision about their living situation. If you are no longer fit to take care of them, you have two options.

You can move them to an assisted living facility. Or, they can receive the care they need in the comfort of their own homes.

This decision involves carefully considering various factors. These include emotional well-being, comfort, and, of course, the cost.

In this “Cost of assisted living vs. in-home care” article, we'll talk about the costs of these two senior living options.

Our goal is to help you make an informed choice. This decision will have a great impact on your loved one's life, so take the time to do your research.

How Much Does Assisted Living Cost?

Assisted living facilities are otherwise called nursing homes. They're for older adults or people with disabilities. These are people who need help with daily activities. For example, bathing, dressing, or taking medications.

Residents have their own apartments or rooms. Assisted living also includes caregivers and staff members available around the clock. Meals and housekeeping are also provided. These facilities also often organise activities for residents to socialise and enjoy their time.

Assisted living costs can vary depending on a few factors. The most common ones include:

The assisted living facility
The location
The type of accommodation
The type and amount of care services needed
The amenities provided by the facility

Since the monthly costs vary greatly, it's hard to determine the exact price. The average monthly cost of assisted living facilities is $3,500 to $4,500 in Australia.

The average costs of these services depends on the facility. Some are more expensive than others. Location can also determine the price. The overall costs can be much higher in metropolitan areas.

This also applies to the level of specialised care services provided.

You can always contact the facility and ask for the price. Just make sure they can provide your family member or loved one with everything they need.

How Much Does In-Home Care Cost?

If you want your loved one to stay at home, they can apply for in-home care.

In-home care combines community and family involvement. With this type of one-on-one care, the medical professionals come to you.

The care recipient can live independently in the comfort of their own home. The in-home caregivers help with household chores and everyday tasks.

In-home care services usually include:

Personal care
Grocery shopping
Meal preparation
Transportation services
Specialised medical care
Medication management
Laundry services
Nursing care
Recreational activities
Home Health Aides
Additional services

Mind you, elderly patients can apply for Home Care Packages. If they're eligible, the Australian Government will cover the costs of in-home care.

The funding you can receive depends on your Home Care Package level. This is how much you can get for each package level:

Level 1 - $10,271.1
Level 2 - $18,063.85
Level 3 - $39,310.5
Level 4 - $59,593.55

Note that the government doesn't pay for all your expenses. For example, it doesn't cover private health insurance or mortgage payments.

Home Care vs. Assisted Living - Which Option Is Pricier?

Both in-home care and assisted living are there to help seniors live comfortably.

But which senior living option is more expensive? In-home care or assisted living facilities?

Generally speaking, assisted living facilities are usually more expensive than in-home care services. This is because assisted living facilities often include:

Designated space
Meals
Social activities
Wellness programs
Round-the-clock care
Doctors who are always on call

When you consider all these services and amenities, it adds up.

While home care is usually more affordable, it still depends on the amount of care needed. Those who only need daily assistance have lower costs than those who need complex care.

For example, Alzheimer's patients need more help with day-to-day tasks. Thus, they will need to pay more for their care services.

You also have to consider the payment method. Assisted living costs are usually monthly payments. In-home care providers charge by the hour.

Home care providers come to the patient's home to help with different daily living tasks. Not all care recipients need the same level of care. That's why this type of care is charged at an hourly rate.

Which Option Is Better?

This decision can change your elderly loved one's life. You have to consider factors other than the cost.

These are some of the benefits of in-home care:

Your loved one can remain living at home.
They will be surrounded by family members in a familiar environment.
They can get personalised one-to-one care.
They can receive medical care without going to a hospital.
Professional caregivers can help them with daily tasks.
They can stay independent.
They can receive ongoing care and support.

Many families choose in-home care for their loved ones. But you may choose assisted living too. Here are some reasons why it might be a better option for your loved one:

A senior living in a nursing home receives 24/7 care. This is ideal for dementia care.
Your elderly loved one can be a part of an assisted living community.
They have everything they need in one place.
They have no household chores.
They have round-the-clock access to medical care.

Assisted Living vs. Home Care: Comparing Costs

Making a decision between assisted living and in-home care can be difficult. You must have your loved one's best interests in mind. There's another factor to consider, and that's the financial aspect.

In general, assisted living facilities cost more than in-home care. But this doesn't have to be the case.

If the care recipient has complex care needs, in-home care can be just as expensive, if not more.

But the good news is that you can apply for a Home Care Package. If you are eligible, the government will cover these costs for you. You can then choose a home care provider who will provide you with the best possible care.

Haisey Home Care is here to support elderly people who need help with daily living. Our trained staff can make your life much easier and more enjoyable.

We also offer low competitive fees. Check out our fees and prices now.

You can contact us if you have any questions. You can also book a free in-person consultation.