If you are a north Texas senior or the adult child of one, you have very likely heard the term “aging in place.” But few people understand what it really means. In general, the term is used to describe a plan created to allow an older adult to age in whatever setting they call home. Traditionally, that meant in their private residence.
Families often believe it is less expensive for a senior loved one to remain in their own home once the mortgage is paid off. But mortgage-free doesn’t mean there won’t be expenses. In addition to taxes, home repairs, maintenance, housekeeping and lawn care, older adults will typically require home care services and technology solutions to keep them safe.
In-Home Care to Support Seniors in Dallas and Fort Worth
In-home care comes in many forms. Sometimes families hire caregivers directly and oversee the services each caregiver provides. Other times adult children prefer to employ a home care agency to handle all of the details from managing schedules to paying employment taxes.
In-home care agencies typically cost more but offer busy families the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved one will be safe and well cared for and that the agency will always be able to cover their care needs.
Caregivers can help a Dallas- Fort Worth area senior with activities of daily living as well as home management tasks. They can range personal care assistance to menu planning and meal preparation. Some offer medication reminders.
With the average cost of in-home care in this area costing between $16 and $30 per hour, it is easy to see how these expenses can add up quickly.
Home Modifications for Seniors in North Texas
Home builders are increasingly recognizing the opportunities that are available to them if they offer home modifications for older adults. These services allow seniors to stay safe in their home or that of an adult child.
As with in-home care services, however, home modification costs can be significant. The capital investment required to age in place often includes:
- Ramps and lifts for exterior and interior stairways: $2,500 to $20,000
- Grab bars in bathrooms and at bedside: $250/two installed
- Bathroom renovations such as walk in shower or tub: $3,500 to $35,000
- Widening doorways for wheelchair access: $800 to $1,200
- In-home technology installation: $99 to $1,500
- Monthly technology monitoring fees: $40 and up
The bottom line is the importance of asking yourself how long these services and home modifications can be used to keep your loved one safe. Compare these expenses to the cost of moving to an assisted living community in north Texas. You might be surprised to find which one really is the more financially sound solution.
Senior Living Specialists is a free service for seniors and their families. We are compensated by a referral fee when a senior moves into a community or care home. Please call us today at 214-929-5055 to learn more.
