How Much Does Senior Home Care Costin Pennsylvania?
If you’re searching for senior home care in Pennsylvania, then start here!
90% of seniors want to age at home. And, for that reason, home care has become an important part of aging in place. The costs will vary greatly depending on things like geographic location, services needed, and frequency of the care. Once you’ve decided that you or a loved one will need to hire some extra help, it can be useful to know what to expect. So, here is everything you need to know about the cost of senior care at home in Pennsylvania!
What is home care?
Home care can mean a lot of different things. Essentially, it’s any care or service that can be obtained and used in the comfort of your own home. It’s meant to help maintain your quality of life and ensure safe aging in place. Types of home care include:
- Companionship
- Personal care assistance
- Skilled nursing
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Meal prep or meal services
- Homemaker services
- Transportation
- Health monitoring
- And many, many more…
About Pennsylvania…
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, also known as the Keystone State, is one of the original 13 US colonies. It is home to numerous historical landmarks, including Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Pennsylvania is home to the Pocono Mountains as well as over 200 miles of the Appalachian Trail.
Compared to the rest of the US, Pennsylvania’s cost of living is around 7.5% lower than the national average (according to Best Places). It has a population of over 12.8 million people, about 3 million of which are aged 65 years and older.
How much does home care cost in Pennsylvania?
The national average cost of home care is just over $5,000 per month (Genworth Cost of Care Survey). Though the actual cost will vary depending on needs and whether a service or independent caregiver is employed, the average monthly cost in Pennsylvania is $4,957.
Homemaker Services in Pennsylvania
The national average cost of homemaker services for seniors is $4,957 per month. The average in Pennsylvania is also $4,957 per month.
Home Health Aides in Pennsylvania
The national average cost of a home health aide is $5,148 per month. The average in Pennsylvania is $4,957 per month.
Adult Day Care in Pennsylvania
The national average cost of adult day health care is $1,690 per month. The average in Pennsylvania is $1,625 per month.
How much does home care cost compared to other senior care options in Pennsylvania?
Actual costs will always vary by facility and from one agency to another. It should also be noted that if a senior requires extended care or overnight care, the price will go up considerably. The national average for 24/7 care at home (168 hours) is $19,292.
Now, let’s take a look at the basic monthly averages. These totals are based on a 44-hour week:
| Type of Care | National Average Monthly Cost | Pennsylvania Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Home Care (all services) | $5,053 | $4,957 |
| Homemaker Services | $4,957 | $4,957 |
| Home Health Aide | $5,148 | $4,957 |
| Assisted Living | $4,500 | $4,100 |
| Adult Day Health Care | $1,690 | $1,625 |
| Nursing Home, Semi-Private Room | $7,908 | $10,403 |
| Nursing Home, Private Room | $9,034 | $11,157 |
How to pay for senior home care in Pennsylvania
Besides personal savings, those who live in Pennsylvania have several possibilities that can help pay if and when it’s time for home care!
Long-Term Care Insurance
Traditional health insurance rarely pays for costs associated with long-term care. Help with daily activities and mobility are a pretty big part of receiving long-term care. So, that’s where long-term care insurance can help. It can cover custodial care, meal services, and even housekeeping services.
Veteran Benefits
The VA will cover the cost of many services under standard health benefits.
To see a full list of long-term care services and to apply for assistance, check out these resources:
Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
Pennsylvania Veterans Registry
Medicare
Medicare is government-provided health insurance for seniors who are over 65. It will not pay for custodial care but will cover the cost of skilled care at home.
Medicare Part A and Part B will pay for things like:
- Part-time skilled nursing care
- Physical, occupational, or speech therapy
- Medical supplies for home use
- Part-time home health aides
Medicare will pay if:
- Services are part of a plan of care created and reviewed regularly by a doctor.
- A doctor prescribed skilled nursing care or therapy for a specific medical condition.
- You are certified homebound by a doctor.
Medicare will not pay for:
- 24-hour care
- Meal services
- Homemaker services
- Personal care assistance
For Medicare help, visit these resources:
Pennsylvania Medicare Counseling
Pennsylvania Insurance Department – Medicare Supplement Coverage
Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps low-income individuals pay for care. It can help with the cost of both custodial and medical care. Every state has different qualification requirements.
For eligibility and enrollment, check out these links:
Pennsylvania Area Agency on Aging Locator
State Assistance
Many states will offer additional assistance outside of Medicaid. Check these resources to find more help in your area:
Need help finding home care?
Having an in-home care provider can be an essential part of aging in place. And, choosing the best provider is an important decision! If you’re looking for the best senior home care in Pennsylvania, then start with the Senior Resource Pennsylvania Home Care Directory!
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Originally published January 31, 2024
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