Whether your parent has health issues such as arthritis or a risk of stroke, or is living with the usual effects of getting older, it’s natural to worry about their safety while they are on their own. And yet, many elders are hesitant to give up independent living. With the cost of a private room in a nursing home costing nearly $100,000 a year, the guide below offers families advice for helping their loved one age in place.

4 Ways to Save on Elder Care With Independent Living 

1. Be Their In-Home Caregiver

Depending on the level of care your loved one requires, you may need to move into their home to help with tasks such as bathing and medication administration. To relieve stress and ensure you can offer the best care possible, take advantage of classes and support groups in your community for family caregivers. 

2. Hire Part-Time Caregiving 

If you can’t do it alone, don’t worry. There is a broad range of home caregiving services and assisted living options available for your family to choose from. You may hire a nurse to visit daily or a physical therapist to do at-home visits so you don’t need to take them to appointments. Additionally, advancements in modern technology have produced devices, including medical alert systems and fall detectors, to ensure your loved one is never without monitoring, while still enjoying independent living. 

3. Set a Budget

Budgeting is necessary for any household, but particularly for seniors on a fixed income. Set up automatic payment for bills, such as their insurance, rent, and electricity. Establish what they have to spend on food and other expenses. You can then set up a pre-paid debit card with a fixed amount to prevent them from racking up credit card debt.

4. Look Into Medicare & Medicaid Coverage

Medicare coverage can help pay for a portion of long-term care. It is temporary, but these funds can stretch much farther outside a nursing home. Alternatively, Medicaid can also help offset some costs of long-term services, if your family is financially eligible. 

It can be hard when the roles are reversed and you have to take care of someone who has always taken care of you. But by turning to Commstar Alarms, in Canon City, CO, maker of medical alert systems, fall detectors, and pill dispensers, you can help support their independent living without the need for constant worry. Call (719) 285-4456 to speak with a friendly team member or visit the website for more information on their various products and services.