Hidden Costs of Aging in Place

January 20, 2025

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Aging in place is an increasingly popular choice for older adults, allowing them to stay close to loved ones, remain in familiar surroundings, and often save money compared to assisted living or nursing homes. However, while the benefits of staying at home are undeniable, there are hidden costs to consider. Below, we’ll explore some of these often-overlooked expenses and provide insights on how to prepare for them.

1. Home Health Aides

If you want to maintain independence but need help with daily tasks, home health aides and skilled nurses can provide assistance with medications, light housekeeping, and companionship.

The national average cost of a home health aide is around $27 per hour, or $1,775 a month for part-time assistance. While this is generally more affordable than senior housing options, it’s still a significant expense. Medicare may cover short-term care for recovery from an illness or injury, but personal care and housekeeping services are not typically included.

2. Transportation and Mobility Aids

Limited mobility can make it harder to leave the house, potentially leading to isolation and depression. Low-cost transportation options like bus lines, paratransit services, or ride programs offered by healthcare networks can help. Medicaid holders may even qualify for free paratransit services.

Additionally, investing in mobility aids—such as scooters, walkers, or stair lifts—can improve accessibility at home and reduce reliance on outside help. Indiana Home Safety and Mobility offers a range of solutions tailored to your needs, helping to ensure safety and comfort.

3. Home Technology and Security Upgrades

Today’s seniors are increasingly embracing technology to improve safety and convenience. Popular upgrades include:

• Medical alert devices: $20 to $45/month

• Fitness trackers: $80 to $400

• Home security systems: $10 to $53/month

• Smart assistants: $60 to $449

These systems enhance independence while offering peace of mind for both seniors and their families.

4. Vital Energy Efficiency Improvements

Energy-efficient upgrades can save money and improve comfort, particularly during emergencies. Some options include:

• LED light bulbs: $4 per bulb

• New windows: $800 to $2,000 each

• Portable generators: $4,000 and up

• Solar panels or re-blown insulation: Costs vary but can provide significant savings long-term.

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A woman is taking a bath in a bathtub with the words benefits of hydrotherapy on the bottom

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A woman in a white robe is standing in a bathroom next to a toilet.

A bathroom with a bathtub , toilet , sink and shower.

5. Safety Modifications

Aging in place often requires home adjustments to improve safety and accessibility. Common upgrades include:

• Handrails and grab bars: $19 to $122 (plus installation)

• Accessibility ramps: $1000 to $2,500 (plus installation)

• Stairlifts, wheelchair lifts, or elevators: $4,500 to $39,000

• Walk-in tubs or showers: from $7500-$35,000

• Wider doorways: $700 to $2,500 per door

Indiana Home Safety and Mobility specializes in providing and installing these solutions, helping you stay safe and comfortable in your home.

A stair lift is sitting in a room next to a wall.

There is a stair lift in the middle of the stairs.

6. Meal Prep Assistance

As grocery shopping and cooking become more challenging, meal assistance can be a helpful solution:

• Senior centers often provide free or discounted meals.

• Meals on Wheels offers affordable or free meal delivery based on need.

• Grocery and meal delivery services bring food right to your door for a small fee.

• Personal chefs can prepare meals at home, though this can cost $75 per meal or more.

7. Outdoor Maintenance

Tasks like mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, or cleaning gutters can become more difficult with age. Professional yard maintenance services range from:

• Mowing: $60to $250

• Weeding: $40to $100

• Snow removal: $50 to $75/hour

Local churches and senior centers often have volunteers or low-cost programs to help with these tasks.

8. Caregiver Stress

Many seniors rely on unpaid caregivers, such as family members, who often dedicate over 34 hours a week to care. While caregiving can be fulfilling, it can also be emotionally and physically draining. Support groups, respite care, and outside assistance can help relieve some of the burden.

At Indiana Home Safety and Mobility, we’re here to help you navigate these options and provide the resources you need to age in place comfortably. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your journey toward safe and independent living.