Home Nurse Costs Vs Staying In A Nursing Home?

Request A NJ Home Care Consultation Now

medical bills new jersey nursing home care

When considering care options for aging adults or individuals with medical needs, you can hire a home nurse, move into a nursing home, or consider an assisted living facility.

Each option has different care services, cost structures, and implications for quality of life. Here are some of the differences between home health care and nursing home care, and reasons why in-home care stands out as the best and most cost-effective choice for many families.

Home Health Care vs. Facility-Based Care

Home Health Care: A Personalized Experience with a Home Health Aide

Home nursing care allows older adults to receive skilled nursing services while remaining in their own home. This approach provides comfort and independence, enabling individuals to stay close to their belongings, loved ones, and community-based services.

Home care compares favorably to the expenses of assisted living facilities and nursing homes, helping families make informed care decisions.

Nursing Home Facility Care: A Structured Environment with Skilled Nursing Care

A nursing home provides 24/7 medical care in a community setting. Residents live in semi-private rooms or private rooms, receiving assistance from a rotating staff of skilled nurses and caregivers. While nursing homes offer social activities and structured routines, they may not provide the same level of individualized attention as in-home care.

The median costs of nursing home care are often higher compared to home nursing care, providing families with a clearer understanding of typical pricing.

Home Care Offers Services and One-on-One Support

Home health aides and skilled nurses provide dedicated attention tailored to the patient’s specific needs. From wound care, medication administration, or vital sign monitoring, the focus is on personalized and specialized services.

24-Hour Live-In Care: For those requiring around-the-clock support – may be hourly or continuous depending on patient needs.
Skilled Nursing Services: Advanced medical care such as wound care, chronic disease management, and post-operative care.
Home Health Aide Services: Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, bathing, and grooming.
Meal Preparation and Light Housekeeping: Ensuring proper nutrition and a clean, safe living environment.
Medication Administration: Managing prescriptions and medication schedules.
Memory Care Services: Personalized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Mental Health Support: Addressing emotional well-being through companionship and supportive care.

Nursing Home Facility Care Offers Shared Attention

Nursing home residents receive care from a team of professionals, but less individualized support due to staff-to-patient ratios. Many assisted living facilities prioritize efficiency, which can impact the level of specialized care received.

Skilled Nursing Care: 24/7 medical care and supervision.
Assistance with ADLs: Help with dressing, bathing, and grooming.
Social and Recreational Activities: Group programs and therapy sessions.
Medical Services and Therapy: Access to rehabilitation services.
Community-Based Services: Engaging with other residents in a structured environment.

Understanding Home Health Care Costs

Home health care costs can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of care required, the location, and the duration of care. When considering home health care as an option, families who are aware of financial obligations can make informed decisions that best suit their needs and budget.

Factors Influencing Home Health Care Costs

Several factors can influence the cost of home health care, including the care needs of the individual, the location, and the type of care required.

Location: Geography can also impact the cost of home health care. Areas with a higher cost of living like our state of New Jersey, have higher home health care costs than areas with a lower cost of living.

Hourly Rates: The cost per hour depends on location, the level of care needed, and the caregiver’s qualifications.

Services Provided: Skilled nursing services cost more than non-medical care such as light housekeeping or meal preparation.

Live-In Care: Live in caregivers are billed hourly as they do get breaks and time to sleep. If around-the-clock care is required, additional caregivers will come to cover constant shifts for that support.

Insurance Coverage: Many health insurance plans, Veterans Affairs benefit programs, and long term care insurance assist with home care costs.

Home Care vs. Nursing Home Cost Structure

Home health care costs are often based on hourly rates or a predetermined schedule of visits. The average hourly rate for home health aide services can vary by state, but it provides financial flexibility since you only pay for the services required. The national average cost of a Home Health Aide is $77,792 per year in 2024.

In home care costs can vary significantly based on the type and duration of care for services like assisted living, nursing homes, and 24/7 support needs.

Common Nursing Home Costs

The cost of staying in a nursing home is generally structured as a flat monthly fee, covering room, board, and medical services. According to a recent care survey from Genworth and CareScout, the national median cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home is significantly higher than home nursing care costs.

Key Cost Considerations for Nursing Homes:

Private vs. Semi-Private Rooms: A private room costs (as much as 127,750 median cost per year in 2024) more than a semi-private room ($111,325 per year on average).
State Averages Ranging: Nursing home costs vary by state, with New Jersey being among the more expensive locations.
Insurance and Medicaid: Some residents qualify for financial aid through long-term care insurance or Medicaid.

Why Home Nursing Care is the Better Choice

Quality Care in a Familiar Setting

Home nursing care ensures that aging adults receive specialized care in their own home, promoting emotional and mental well-being. In contrast, nursing homes may lead to a sense of isolation or adjustment difficulties due to the communal living environment.

Cost-Effective Options

Many families explore cost-effective options and find that home health care provides greater flexibility compared to the standardized costs of nursing homes. With home care, you can tailor services to fit your budget while still receiving high-quality care.

Support for Family Caregivers

Home nursing care allows family caregivers to stay involved in their loved one’s care while receiving professional support. Nursing homes, on the other hand, often remove direct involvement, making it harder for family members to stay engaged in daily care decisions.

How Saba Home Health Care Can Help

At Saba Home Health Care, we specialize in providing high-quality home care services in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey.

Choosing between home nursing care and a nursing home is a major decision that depends on individual needs, financial circumstances, and personal preferences. However, for many families, home care offers a more affordable, flexible, and compassionate alternative that allows loved ones to age gracefully in their own home.