Situated at the mouth of the Hudson River in south-central New Jersey, Ocean County offers cultural amenities, comfortable weather throughout the year and access to high-performing medical facilities such as Southern Ocean Medical Center and Saint Peter’s University Hospital. There are about 640,000 residents in the county, about 22% of whom are retirement aged. By comparison, seniors make up roughly 17% of the state’s population. The county’s overall cost of living is low compared to the state norm, which may enable older adults to maintain their standard of living throughout retirement, and comfortable weather throughout the year provides time to enjoy relaxing outdoors. 

Home care agencies in Ocean County charge an average of $5,529 per month for services such as light housekeeping and laundry, meal preparation, grocery shopping assistance and personal care. Home health care may be a better alternative for those who need light medical services from a professional, such as medication administration and disease management. 

Below we’ve compiled a comprehensive directory of every home care provider in Ocean County– complete with services offered and reviews from families who’ve actually used the service. In addition to our in-depth provider listings, we’ve compiled resources to help seniors and their families to access all the tools they need to age in place safely and gracefully.

Directory of Home Care Services in Ocean County, NJ

2017, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023

Right at Home Ocean County

1989 Route 88, Unit A, Brick, NJ, 08724

Patty H in the Brick office was wonderful to work with. Patty is so compassionate & truly empathized & understood what I was going through as I assisted my family member with hiring someone t … (read more)
Patty H in the Brick office was wonderful to work with. Patty is so compassionate & truly empathized & understood what I was going through as I assisted my family member with hiring someone t … (read more)

2019, 2020

Home Instead – Waretown, NJ

1 Memorial Dr, Suite 101, Waretown, NJ, 08758

Home Instead has been a pleasure to work with from the office staff to all of the aides who were sent to my parents home. A true group of caring individuals. They understand the stress on a family who … (read more)
Home Instead has been a pleasure to work with from the office staff to all of the aides who were sent to my parents home. A true group of caring individuals. They understand the stress on a family who … (read more)

Oasis Homecare Services Inc

2911 Route 88, Suite 4, Point Pleasant, NJ, 08742

They are providing companionship. They are friendly. The office are very helpful and knowledgeable.
They are providing companionship. They are friendly. The office are very helpful and knowledgeable.

Love & Care LLC

68 old farm road, Fairfield, CT, 06824

Lali is taking great care of my dad! She is caring and professional. Thanks to Love and Care for their hand picked caregivers.
Lali is taking great care of my dad! She is caring and professional. Thanks to Love and Care for their hand picked caregivers.

Home Instead – Lakewood, NJ

1970 Swarthmore Ave, Suite 2, Lakewood, NJ, 08701

Even though we only employeed Home Instead of Lakewood for a short time, they went out of their way in providing excellent service for our cousin. The caregiver was professional and offered a level o … (read more)
Even though we only employeed Home Instead of Lakewood for a short time, they went out of their way in providing excellent service for our cousin. The caregiver was professional and offered a level o … (read more)

Always Best Care of Monmouth County

981 Route 33 Suite C, Monroe Township, NJ, 08831

I can’t begin to tell to you how pleased I am with Always Best Care. Not only have they placed the perfect caregiver with my mother they also take care of the billing and when I need to speak to a … (read more)
I can’t begin to tell to you how pleased I am with Always Best Care. Not only have they placed the perfect caregiver with my mother they also take care of the billing and when I need to speak to a … (read more)

United Methodist Communities HomeWorks, Inc.- Freehold, NJ

76 West Main Street , Freehold, NJ, 07728

The caregiver from United Methodist serves as a companion to my wife for a few hours a day to keep her interested in stuff when I’m not with her. The caregiver comes at 10:00 and leaves at 2:00 four t … (read more)
The caregiver from United Methodist serves as a companion to my wife for a few hours a day to keep her interested in stuff when I’m not with her. The caregiver comes at 10:00 and leaves at 2:00 four t … (read more)

Always Best Care of West Windsor

50 Princeton-Hightstown Road, Princeton Junction, NJ, 08550

I hired Always Best Care for Mom Monday through Friday. They are expensive, but that’s the going rate, unfortunately. They were very reactive; I called them, and the next day, they were at the house d … (read more)
I hired Always Best Care for Mom Monday through Friday. They are expensive, but that’s the going rate, unfortunately. They were very reactive; I called them, and the next day, they were at the house d … (read more)

TheKey – Central New Jersey

1450 US-22 Ste. 204, Mountainside, NJ, 07092


Integrity Home Healthcare

774 Eayrestown Rd Ste 204 , Lumberton, NJ, 08048

The Mission of Integrity Home Healthcare LLC is to enable patients under our care to live independently and retain a sense of freedom of choice as they age. Our specialist works closely with the patie … (read more)
The Mission of Integrity Home Healthcare LLC is to enable patients under our care to live independently and retain a sense of freedom of choice as they age. Our specialist works closely with the patie … (read more)

Comfort Keepers In Home Care

697 Broad Street, Red Bank, NJ, 07702

When I need help with my brother and at times for myself, they were there for us. They are there when I need them. If anybody needs home health care, I would recommend this company.
When I need help with my brother and at times for myself, they were there for us. They are there when I need them. If anybody needs home health care, I would recommend this company.

2021, 2022, 2023

Hibernian Home Care

2362 Route 9 South, Suite 2, Howell, NJ, 07731

The caregiver helps me with all my personal needs and I love the company. They provide wonderful care, as well as the employees and caregivers have been great.
The caregiver helps me with all my personal needs and I love the company. They provide wonderful care, as well as the employees and caregivers have been great.

ExPO Signature Home Care

348 US Hwy 9N , Suite D , Manalapan, NJ, 07726

We only used ExPO Signature for a couple of months because my mom was very ill and she had to go to a nursing home. I think the caregivers did the best that they could under the circumstances. My mom … (read more)
We only used ExPO Signature for a couple of months because my mom was very ill and she had to go to a nursing home. I think the caregivers did the best that they could under the circumstances. My mom … (read more)

Visiting Nurse Association Health Group

23 Main St, Suite D1, Holmdel, NJ, 07733

This this service is amazing. I’ve had others. They are caring and empathetic. They’re always extremely helpful. Empathy is key. As a caretaker to my dad for years, I tried other services. The … (read more)
This this service is amazing. I’ve had others. They are caring and empathetic. They’re always extremely helpful. Empathy is key. As a caretaker to my dad for years, I tried other services. The … (read more)

StellaCare Home Care Services, LLC

321 Main Street, Suite 264, Avon By The Sea, NJ, 07717

Debra provides excellent care. She is caring, respectful and attentive. Most importantly she is trustworthy, dependable and always presents herself in a positive manner with a smile.
Debra provides excellent care. She is caring, respectful and attentive. Most importantly she is trustworthy, dependable and always presents herself in a positive manner with a smile.

Assisting Hands-Serving Monmouth Cnty, Brick, Lakewood & Pt. Pleasant

106 Apple St., Ste. 113, Tinton Falls, NJ, 07724

I like Assisting Hands. I’ve been working with them for about three or four months now. The caregiver is wonderful. They took about a week to find a caregiver. They are very quick to bill you and get … (read more)
I like Assisting Hands. I’ve been working with them for about three or four months now. The caregiver is wonderful. They took about a week to find a caregiver. They are very quick to bill you and get … (read more)

CareBridge Home Care

701 Brooklyn Blvd , Sea Girt, NJ, 08736

We had a very positive experience with their services. Would highly recommend their live-in services which is what we had for our father.
We had a very positive experience with their services. Would highly recommend their live-in services which is what we had for our father.

FirstLight HomeCare of Western Monmouth County

80 Symmes Dr, Manalapan, NJ, 07726

Although I never wanted to have care I become to look forward to Pam’s visits and our drives to the stores to go shopping and have icecream. Pam and Firslight HomeCare treated me like family and even … (read more)
Although I never wanted to have care I become to look forward to Pam’s visits and our drives to the stores to go shopping and have icecream. Pam and Firslight HomeCare treated me like family and even … (read more)

Cyril Senior Care

125 Half Mile Rd Ste 200, Red Bank, NJ, 07701

Cyril has provided an excellent caregiver for my 92 year old mother who suffers from moderate dementia. The provider is especially caring and keeps my mom involved. The provider also keeps in regular … (read more)
Cyril has provided an excellent caregiver for my 92 year old mother who suffers from moderate dementia. The provider is especially caring and keeps my mom involved. The provider also keeps in regular … (read more)

Senior Helpers

67 Lacey Road Suite #6, Manchester, NJ, 08759

We hired Senior Helpers for my husband. I chose them because I like them when they came down here and spoke with me. They were the highest price, but they seemed very capable. The caregiver does every … (read more)
We hired Senior Helpers for my husband. I chose them because I like them when they came down here and spoke with me. They were the highest price, but they seemed very capable. The caregiver does every … (read more)

Paying for Home Care in Ocean County, NJ

The Cost of Home Care in Ocean County, NJ

The Genworth 2021 Cost of Care Survey doesn’t outline long-term care cost data for Ocean County, but based on care costs in nearby Atlantic City, it estimates local home care rates at $5,529 per month. While this is several hundred dollars higher than the national norm of $4,957, it’s consistent with the state average. In Ocean City, which is located about 60 miles south, care costs are the same, and in Trenton, rates trend a few hundred dollars lower at $5,148 monthly. In Vineland, home care rates are over $700 lower than in Ocean County at $4,767. 

$5529

Ocean County

$5529

New Jersey

$4957

The United States

$5529

Ocean City

$4767

Vineland

$5148

Trenton

The Cost of Home Care vs. Other Senior Care Options in Ocean County, NJ

Home care agencies in Ocean County charge an estimated $5,529 per month for nonmedical services such as light housekeeping and meal preparation. Home health care includes specialized skilled nursing services such as vitals monitoring and wound care for a slightly higher monthly rate of $5,625. Adult day health care is an affordable alternative to home care at $2,134. Assisted living costs about $300 more and $5,807 monthly, and nursing home care is considerably costlier at $9,125.  

$5529

Home Care

$5625

Home Health Care

$2134

Adult Day Care

$5807

Assisted Living

$9125

Nursing Home Care (semiprivate room)

Note: Data for Ocean County was unavailable, so data for the nearest city, Atlantic City, was used instead.

Financial Assistance for Home Care in Ocean County, NJ

Given the high cost of in-home care, many people use one or more forms of financial assistance to cover the expenses. Below, we explain some of the most common sources of financial help for paying for in-home care. If none of these options are available to you, you can reach out to your Area Agency on Aging or Aging and Disability Resource Center to learn about local resources.

  • Long-Term Care Insurance: Long-term care insurance covers expenses related to senior care, including in-home care. Depending on the policy type, beneficiaries may receive a cash payment to use towards long-term care or reimbursement for qualifying long-term care expenses. Note that there are limitations- typically a maximum benefit of $150 per day- and exact coverage terms vary depending on the exact policy, so always check the details.
  • Medicare: Medicare does not cover in-home care because it is classified as custodial, or non-medical, care. However, some Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans, which offer expanded benefits, may cover in-home custodial care.
  • Medicaid: Medicaid coverage of in-home care varies between different states because it is not a federally mandated benefit. Currently, all states cover some in-home care either through their standard Medicaid or a waiver program. The specific coverage rules are set individually by each state.
  • Veterans’ Benefits: The Aid and Attendance benefit is a monthly cash payment that beneficiaries can use to pay for senior care, including in-home care services. To qualify for A&A, Veterans must already receive the VA pension and meet several additional requirements, including needing assistance with the activities of daily living. Contact the Department of Veterans Affairs to learn more.
  • Reverse Mortgages: Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs) are federally insured loans that are available to homeowners age 62 and over. Reverse mortgages allow you to access a portion of your home’s equity in cash, tax free. Many seniors use reverse mortgages to finance their care expenses, including in-home care. Note that although there are no monthly payments due on reverse mortgage loans, borrowers do have to repay the loan once the last surviving homeowner passes away, moves, or sells the home.

Ocean County Home Care Resources 

Home care services are only one of the pieces needed for seniors to gracefully age in place. There are many services and programs that are low-cost or free, that enable seniors to enjoy an independent lifestyle in the comfort of their own home, such as help with home modifications, meal delivery services, and more. Below, we’ve compiled a few of the most helpful resources in Ocean County:

Meals on Wheels of Ocean County

Address: PO Box 610, Stafford, NJ 08050-0610
Phone Number: 609-978-6869

Meals on Wheels of Ocean County delivers fresh hot meals to seniors. In addition, the organization has on-site meals so seniors can dine and socialize with others in person. This chapter also has computer training for interested seniors.

Fix It Program

Address: 200 Monmouth Avenue, Lakewood NJ 08701
Phone Number: (732) 363-5322 x3234

The Fix It program helps seniors 60 and older feel safe from hazards in the home. Volunteers (often retired seniors) go to the home to make small repairs, tidy up yards and other minor jobs. Catholic Charities’ Community Services runs this program for Ocean County, and there is no charge for the program. 

Bill Payment Program

Address: 222 S Warren St, Trenton, NJ 08608
Phone Number: (800) 792-9745

The Lifeline program gives a $225 annual benefit to assist low-income residents with utility payments. Seniors must meet these requirements:

  • Must be a resident of New Jersey 65 years of age or older;
  • Must currently receive Social Security disability; and
  • Must meet the program’s income requirements

The Lifeline Credit Program gives a $225 annual credit for gas and electric bills. For residents whose utilities are part of their cost of dwelling, the Tenants Lifeline Assistance Program reimburses up to $225 annually. And the Special Utility Supplement gives up to $18.75 per month to SSI recipients. Contact the agency for more information.

Statewide Respite Care Program

Address: 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, NJ 08753
Phone Number: 1-877-222-3737

The New Jersey Statewide Respite Care Program provides respite care for caregivers. There is a sliding fee scale of 0% to 25% for services, depending on the income of the care recipient.

Weatherization Program

Address: 40 Washington Street, Toms River, New Jersey 08753
Phone Number: (732) 244-8176 Ext. 107 

O.C.E.A.N., Inc., the Ocean County Weatherization Department, in conjunction with LIHEAP (the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program), provides a weatherization program for low-income individuals. The agency will assist with certain home remediation such as weather stripping, window and door replacements and furnace replacement or repair so the household will have lower energy bills in the summer or winter.

Determining Your Loved One’s Need for In-Home Care

Aging can be a difficult process, and loved ones may not always ask for help – often times it’s up to their family to evaluate their need for help around the house. While no two situations are exactly alike, this checklist can help you and your loved ones determine when it’s time to start the search for a home care provider.

Checklist for determining the need for in-home care


Guidelines for Talking About In-Home Care

If you’ve determined that your loved one needs the assistance of a care provider in their home, it may be time for a difficult conversation. Handled correctly, however, this process can bring a family together and ensure that everyone’s concerns are addressed. Use this PDF as a starting point to help the conversation stay as positive and productive as possible.

Talking with family and others about a loved one's needs