Home Care

The 2005 MetLife Market Survey of Nursing Home and Home Care Costs found that the average hourly cost for home health aides was $19 and $17 for homemakers and companions. Costs may increase due to the level of services provided. Seniors may be entitled to certain home health services under public and private third-party payers, such as Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Administration, and commercial health insurance companies. Home care services that is not covered under any of these plans must be paid for out of pocket. For seniors who are not entitled to benefits, the price of daily care may be difficult to manage.

What types of medical services are offered through Home Care Services? A wide range of medical and non-medical services are available through home care, and providers offer therapy options that can be carried out by a variety of professionals, paraprofessionals, and volunteers. While services for the treatment of medical conditions must be prescribed by a physician, supportive services - such as those offered by companions and volunteers - do not require a physician's referral. Home care providers include nurses, physical and occupational therapists, social workers, dieticians, home health aides, and homemakers.