Helping Older People Stay at Home
Paying the Bill continued...
Hired homemakers/caregivers, transportation services, house modifications, and other services add to the bill. The total monthly cost of "aging in place" varies. An elderly woman who needs only light housekeeping or companionship for three hours twice a week might spend around $240 a month, much less than someone who needs help 24 hours a day. That can run $5,000 or more -- much more if a health aide is needed.
There is some financial aid for senior citizens who meet the Medicare or Medicaid qualifications. Less expensive home health care is also available through some state and city social service agencies as well as through the Red Cross, Visiting Nurses Association, and other concerned groups. State agencies on aging, hospital discharge offices, and Medicare offices may also have information about services offered by various private home care agencies.
Where to Go for Help:
www.aarp.org
Provides information about living at home, modifying a home, home improvement contractors, staying socially connected, transportation, and help with home care.
www.elderweb.com
Has extensive links to other sites related to aging in place and independent living.
www.homemods.org
Information on modifying homes for the elderly.
Jeanie Puleston Fleming has written for The New York Times and other publications. She is based in Santa Fe, N.M.