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How Much Does Home Companion Care Cost?
Date Updated: December 16, 2024
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Kristi Bickmann, a licensed Long-Term Care Specialist, represents top-rated "Traditional" & "Hybrid" LTC companies. Serving associations such as the American Nurses Association, she's a licensed insurance agent in 27 states. Specializing in insurance products for seniors, Kristi helps hundreds of families every year protect assets, retirement, and loved ones. She understands aging concerns firsthand, having assisted her own parents. Kristi ensures accuracy on topics about senior long-term care and its consequences.
Home companion care costs about $30 per hour when provided as part of an in-home care package, according to 2024 data from Genworth Financial. However, costs vary according to location and additional care services. Some community projects offer free volunteer-led senior companion services.
Insights Into Home Companion Care
In-home care agencies develop personalized support plans for older adults aging at home. Services include assistance with day-to-day tasks, transportation and housekeeping. Care plans can include dedicated companionship hours geared toward reducing the risk of loneliness or isolation and enhancing seniors’ overall well-being. According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging, around one-third of seniors experienced social isolation in 2023.
In-home companions provide company, enrichment and stimulation for older adults in their private residences. They also perform basic wellness checks and alert family, support workers or local authorities if a senior has difficulties. Companions visit at scheduled times, and services may involve telephone calls or online meetings. Common activities include reading aloud to partially sighted seniors, playing card games, discussing current affairs and reminiscing. Aides tailor recreational support and conversation topics to match individuals’ interests.
In-Home Care Costs Across the United States
Nationwide, home care agencies charge a median rate of $30 per hour. However, fees vary according to the exact services required. Individuals who only need a few companionship hours each week tend to pay less than those who also require hands-on support with domestic chores or personal care. In-home care has varying median prices among states and cities, too.
In-home companions usually cost more in states such as Montana and New Mexico, where typical hourly fees stand at $50 and $45, respectively. Mississippi and Arkansas boast some of the country’s lowest in-home care costs, with corresponding median hourly rates of $15 and $19.
Other Engagement Opportunities for Older Adults Living at Home
In addition to paid, agency-delivered companion care, home-dwelling seniors may take advantage of local support options. For example, AmeriCorps helps community organizations set up Senior Companion Programs, whereby trained senior volunteers provide company and basic help to other older adults in their communities. Many religious groups also run companion initiatives for homebound seniors, and most home-delivered meal schemes include friendly chats and well-being checks.
Dedicated senior centers operate nationwide, providing social and leisure opportunities for older community members. Most offer round-trip transportation between individuals’ homes and the center, making access easier. Older adults can learn what programs operate in their area by contacting their local Area Agency on Aging.