Overview of Average Cost of Nursing Home Health Care
Nursing home health care can be an expensive endeavor, but understanding the cost is key to finding the right care for your loved one. The national averages for nursing home health care costs can vary significantly depending on the level of care needed, the type of facility and amenities, and the length of stay.
The Genworth 2019 Cost of Care Survey found that the national median monthly cost of a private room in a nursing home was $8,517, while a semi-private room cost $7,756. These prices reflect the average cost across all 50 states, with the highest median monthly cost at $14,000 and the lowest at $5,000.
Factors That Influence Nursing Home Health Care Costs
When considering the cost of nursing home health care, there are several factors that can affect the overall price. Location, level of care needed, type of facility and amenities, and length of stay can all play a role in determining the cost.
Location – Nursing home health care costs can vary significantly from state to state and even within regions of a state. Generally, states located in the Northeast tend to have higher costs than those in the Midwest or South. Additionally, certain cities may also have higher costs due to their cost of living.
Level of Care Needed – The type of care required will also impact the cost. For example, someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia may need more specialized care than someone who simply needs assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). The level of care required may also dictate whether a private or semi-private room is necessary.
Type of Facility and Amenities – The type of facility and amenities offered can also influence the cost. Facilities that offer more luxurious amenities such as private rooms, on-site medical staff, and recreational activities may cost more than those that offer only basic services.
Length of Stay – Finally, the length of stay can also affect the cost. In general, longer stays may be more expensive due to additional fees for extended care.
Commonly Covered Services and Procedures in Nursing Home Health Care
Nursing home health care typically covers a variety of services and procedures, including:
Nursing Services – Nursing services include medication management, wound care, catheter care, and other treatments ordered by a physician. These services are typically provided by nurses and certified nursing assistants.
Physical and Occupational Therapy – Physical and occupational therapy services help individuals maintain or improve their mobility and independence. Examples include exercises to increase strength and range of motion, balance training, and instruction in the use of assistive devices.
Medical Care and Prescription Drugs – Most nursing homes provide access to medical care and prescription drugs. These services may include routine check-ups, diagnostic tests, and treatment for acute and chronic illnesses.
Room and Board – Room and board are generally included in the cost of nursing home health care. This includes meals, housekeeping, laundry services, and other related services.
State-by-State Comparisons of Nursing Home Health Care Costs
Although the national median cost of nursing home health care is $8,517 for a private room and $7,756 for a semi-private room, there are significant variations from state to state. According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey, the five states with the highest median monthly cost for a private room are Alaska ($12,800), Connecticut ($12,400), Massachusetts ($11,700), New Jersey ($11,400), and Rhode Island ($10,900). Conversely, the five states with the lowest median monthly cost for a private room are Arkansas ($5,542), Mississippi ($6,050), Alabama ($6,200), Oklahoma ($6,557), and West Virginia ($6,750).
Factors that influence these variations in cost include the availability of qualified nursing staff, the local cost of living, and the availability of government subsidies. Additionally, some states may offer tax credits or other financial assistance programs to help offset the cost of nursing home care.
How to Save Money on Nursing Home Health Care
There are several ways to save money on nursing home health care, including:
Utilizing Long-term Care Insurance – Many people opt to purchase long-term care insurance in order to cover the cost of nursing home care. Long-term care insurance policies can vary widely in terms of coverage, so it’s important to read the policy carefully and understand what is and isn’t covered.
Researching Financial Assistance Programs – There are a variety of government and private programs available to help offset the cost of nursing home care. It’s important to research these programs to determine which ones are available in your area and if you qualify for assistance.
Exploring Options for Home Health Care – Home health care can be an affordable alternative to traditional nursing home care. Depending on the level of care needed, home health care may be a more cost-effective option.
Understanding Payment Options for Nursing Home Health Care
Payment for nursing home health care can come from a variety of sources, including:
Private Payment – Private payment usually involves paying out-of-pocket for the cost of care. Depending on the individual’s financial situation, this may involve selling assets or taking out a loan.
Medicare and Medicaid – Medicare and Medicaid are government programs that can help cover the cost of nursing home care. Medicare generally covers short-term stays while Medicaid covers long-term stays. It’s important to note that each program has different eligibility requirements.
VA Benefits – Veterans may be eligible for VA benefits to help cover the cost of nursing home care. Eligibility requirements vary, so it’s important to contact the VA to determine if you are eligible.
Alternatives to Traditional Nursing Home Health Care Solutions
For those who don’t require full-time nursing home care, there are a variety of alternatives available, including:
Assisted Living Facilities – Assisted living facilities provide a more independent living environment for seniors who don’t need 24-hour nursing care. They typically offer meals, housekeeping, recreational activities, and assistance with ADLs.
Home Health Care – Home health care is an option for those who need assistance with ADLs but don’t require round-the-clock care. Home health care providers can assist with meal preparation, bathing, grooming, and other daily tasks.
Adult Daycare Programs – Adult daycare programs provide social and recreational activities for seniors in a safe, supervised environment. These programs can provide companionship and help prevent isolation, while allowing seniors to remain in their own homes.
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