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Is In-Home Care Cheaper for Dementia Patients?
Date Updated: December 16, 2024
Written by:
Lauren Ferguson has over five years of experience as a freelance writer, specializing in senior care topics such as assisted living and memory care. She holds a degree in Liberal Studies and English from the University of Illinois Springfield. Having navigated the process of placing her mother in a long-term care community, Lauren offers a unique insider's perspective to families facing similar situations.
Reviewed by:
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.
Yes, in-home care is cheaper for dementia patients compared to other types of care. However, the total expense depends on the number of hours of assistance required; those who need extensive support may find alternative options, such as specialized memory care, more cost-effective.
How Much Does In-Home Care Cost?
The U.S. median cost of in-home care hovers around $5,720 per month, according to the Genworth 2024 Cost of Care Survey. However, expenses vary widely depending on location; for example, hourly rates range from $15 in Mississippi to $44 in Washington. The total cost of care reflects the time and effort required to provide services, including light housekeeping and assistance with bathing, dressing, meal preparation and other daily living activities.
The estimated monthly cost assumes 44 hours of assistance per week, so those needing more hours or overnight care may face significantly higher expenses. Families should carefully consider their loved one’s needs and budget when exploring long-term care options. In some cases, specialized dementia care, which provides 24/7 support and specifically manages symptoms of memory impairment, may provide a better, less costly option.
Is In-Home Care the Right Choice for Dementia Patients?
In-home care allows seniors to receive assistance in the comfort of their own homes, which can prove particularly beneficial for those in the early stages of dementia. As the condition progresses, however, dedicated memory care facilities may become necessary for their safety. In terms of cost, in-home care typically runs lower than memory care; as of late 2023, the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing & Care reports memory care's average monthly cost at $7,899.
Despite memory care’s higher rates, families of those in later stages of dementia may find the added expense an acceptable trade-off in exchange for greater peace of mind. Many memory care facilities feature controlled access and around-the-clock monitoring, which can significantly reduce the risk of wandering, a typical behavior among individuals with dementia. Additionally, patients may benefit from specialized activities and therapies designed to stimulate cognitive function and improve their quality of life.