Did you know that nearly 12% of Texans are over the age of 65? With longer lifespans comes a reality many of us will face—caring for aging loved ones. While it’s a privilege to help, the costs of care can add up quickly, and understanding your options is crucial. Whether it’s in-home help or full-time nursing care, Texas offers resources, but knowing where to turn can make all the difference.
🏡 In-home Care
Sometimes, an elderly family member may only need help with grocery shopping, meal preparation, or light housekeeping. If cooking has become a challenge, the Texas chapter of Meals on Wheels provides meals to seniors at little or no cost.
If you’re comfortable with someone visiting your loved one in their home, there are many in-home care services available—both through agencies and individuals. National services like Care.com and Visiting Angels offer resources, and there are also local options. Costs vary depending on the level of care, with payment typically by the hour or a flat day rate. Local and state agencies may offer some financial support—details are available on the Texas Health and Human Services website. If your loved one owns their home but is low on cash, a reverse mortgage could free up funds while allowing them to stay in their home.
🩺 Assisted Living and Nursing Home Care
If an elderly family member needs help with cooking, shopping, or getting to appointments, those needs can usually be handled with services like ride-shares or grocery delivery. However, when medical issues like Alzheimer’s, dementia, or physical disabilities arise, more intensive care may be required. If a live-in caregiver isn’t an option, it might be time to consider assisted living or nursing home care.
For seniors who are still mobile and cognitively strong, assisted living can be a good solution. These facilities provide meals, activities, and social interaction, all in one place. But be prepared—costs in Texas range from $4,000 to $10,000 a month depending on the amenities and level of care needed.
For those requiring nursing home care, the costs are often higher, and assets like a home could be used to cover these expenses. Entry fees or deposits of several thousand dollars are common, and while room and board are included, extras like cable or salon services may cost extra. If your loved one’s assets are depleted, it’s worth exploring Medicaid options, though availability can be limited and the paperwork time-consuming.
Need Help?
Caring for an aging loved one can be overwhelming—emotionally and financially. But you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. We’re here to help you navigate the financial side of senior care, from understanding care costs to making the most of available resources. Give us a call today, and let’s plan together for the care your family deserves, with less stress and more peace of mind.