Caring for someone with cancer can be a full-time job, and one you may not be able to handle by yourself. But live-in care can be expensive. However, the exact cost depends on several factors, including where you live, the level of support your loved one needs, and whether you work with an agency or hire a caregiver yourself.
Definition of Live-In Caregiver
A live-in caregiver is a trained professional who moves into the home of the person receiving care. They assist with everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing, meals, medications, and getting around safely. Many live-in caregivers also help with light housekeeping, rides to appointments, companionship, and emotional support.
Live-in care is not the same as 24/7 awake care. A live-in caregiver generally works set hours to provide care and is allowed to sleep at night, as long as they’re not needed. In contrast, true around-the-clock awake care means caregivers are on duty and alert all night, usually with multiple caregivers rotating shifts.
Average Cost of Live-In Caregiver
Costs vary significantly by state and the type of care required. According to Princella Seymour, the CEO and founder of Complete Elder Solutions, “The national median rate for non-medical in-home care is $33 per hour, with state medians ranging from $24 to $43.”
Amy Pelegrin, the hospice care director and a patient advocate at The Mesothelioma Center, said, “In the U.S., most families pay $3,500 to $7,500 per month for a live-in caregiver. If they use an agency, it is around $200 to $350 a day. It can cost $18,000 to $25,000 a month for a 24/7 awake, rotating staff.”
Evan H. Farr, a certified elder law attorney and retirement planner, said the average annual cost of a live-in caregiver ranges from $90,000 to $145,000. Annual costs based on non-medical care can run about $42,000-$70,000 depending on how many hours needed.
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Cost Factors
Several key factors can influence the cost of hiring a live-in caregiver. The level of care required is one of the biggest factors in how much you’ll pay, Seymour said. “Does the care require occasional help with chores and meals only, or is this more hands-on assistance with functions such as dressing, bathing, or specialized dementia care?”
Caregiver experience and certification also play a role. Caregivers with more training and credentials usually charge more. Location is another factor, as labor costs vary greatly from state to state and city to city.
The number of care hours required directly affects the total cost. According to Pelegrin, part-time care is the least expensive option, while around-the-clock awake care is the most expensive.
Cancer Care
Caring for someone with cancer can be a full-time job, and one you may not be able to handle by yourself.
Considering the complexity of cancer care, it’s essential to understand the financial implications. The cost of live-in care can be a significant burden, but there are ways to make it more affordable. Families can explore options like Medicaid, long-term care insurance, and VA benefits to help reduce the financial strain.
For instance, Medicaid may cover certain home and community-based services through a waiver program. To start the process, contact your local county office on aging to request an evaluation. Additionally, long-term care insurance can cover a portion of the costs of live-in care, and VA benefits may provide caregiver support programs for eligible veterans.
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It’s also important to note that some caregiving expenses can qualify for medical deductions or the dependent care tax credit. A tax professional can help you sort out what applies.
Financial Help
Most health insurance plans don’t cover live-in care. Medicare, for example, does not cover long-term live-in caregivers, Farr said. “It will only cover short-term home health care provided by a licensed professional, such as a registered nurse, physical therapist, or occupational therapist, and only if you meet certain criteria.”
Depending on your situation, certain programs may help lower your out-of-pocket costs. Hospice or palliative care programs may offer some home health aide hours to supplement the care the individual already has.
Hiring a live-in caregiver requires careful consideration of the costs and benefits. By understanding the factors that influence the cost of live-in care and exploring available financial resources, families can make informed decisions about their loved one’s care.
When hiring a live-in caregiver, it’s essential to define the scope of care, decide between an agency and a private hire, and run a thorough background check. Putting everything in writing and interviewing multiple candidates can also help ensure the best possible care for your loved one.
Families should research local resources, such as the pool risks associated with certain activities, to ensure they are providing the best care for their loved one.
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