For anyone considering senior care in Pennsylvania or Delaware, one of the biggest concerns is the possible cost of care. At Neighborly Home Care, we are here to help. Below we answer some of the common most common FAQs about senior care costs that we hear.
What Are the Different Payment Options for Senior Care?
Care agencies will have multiple options for you to pay for care. A few examples of the various payment options that Neighborly Home Care accepts include the following:
- Self-Pay
- Long Term Care Insurance
- Waiver Programs
If you want more information on these payment options and how our agency will help you with these options, click here.
What is the Most Expensive Form of Senior Care?
Many care services for seniors are available, from in-home care to assisted senior living to a nursing home. The cost of each type of service can vary depending on the level of care needed, the location, and other factors. In nearly all cases, nursing homes are the most expensive care service option, with average costs of at least two hundred dollars per day, and often exceeding five hundred. In Pennsylvania, costs vary across different regions within the state, but according to the Pennsylvania Health Care Association (PCHA) the median cost for a semi-private room in a nursing home in Pennsylvania is over $100,000. In Delaware, nursing home costs are also significant, with the average cost for semi-private accommodations reported to be nearly $100,000 annually according to Genworth Life Insurance Company.
Can In-Home Care Be Covered by Medicare or Other Government Programs?
Yes, but this varies substantially from state to state. Waiver programs are set up in states, including Pennsylvania and Delaware, to help pay for care services. If you qualify for the waiver program, choose a home care services company that accepts the waivers, such as Neighborly Home Care.
What Qualifications Must Be Met to Benefit From Waiver Programs?
Each waiver program may have different eligibility requirements, usually determined by factors such as the recipient’s age, income, current marital status, assets, and more. Explore your options to find the most affordable solution for your needs.
What Is the Process for Determining Eligibility for Waiver Programs in Pennsylvania?
Both financial and care-based criteria determine eligibility for waiver programs in Pennsylvania. An independent assessment agency will review the applicant’s resources, income, and care needs and designate a specific care level. This level will determine the services and funding for which the individual might be eligible.
Please get in touch with Neighborly Home Care anytime for further information regarding our services and options.
Can A Disabled Parent Be Considered a Dependent by Their Children for Tax Purposes?
In general, claiming a disabled parent as a dependent for tax purposes is possible if they meet certain criteria set by the IRS. The IRS specifies two types of dependents: a qualifying child and a qualifying relative. A disabled parent could potentially be considered a “qualifying relative” if they meet specific requirements. However, according to law firm Barley Snyder, many states, including Pennsylvania and Delaware, have laws on the books called “filial responsibility laws,” which can potentially cause children claiming parents as dependents to become responsible for some of those parent(s)’ debts. The application of these laws can vary widely based on specific circumstances.
Please note, we are giving NO tax advice-you should consult with a tax professional or legal advisor to understand how these laws might affect your specific situation, especially if you’re considering claiming a disabled parent as a dependent.
