Where are the Best Places in America for Long-Term Care?
An annual senior care cost survey highlights U.S. states with the most affordable long-term care options. It seems the heartland states, not the sunshine states, offer the most affordable and diverse care choices for seniors.
A regional gap exists in the U.S. between areas where people have access to a broad number of affordable, long-term healthcare options for seniors, according to a recent study by Genworth Financial.
The study, which involved more than 14,000 nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health and adult day health care providers nationwide, found that Midwesterners enjoy more budget-friendly long-term care options than their east and west coast counterparts.
Here’s a snapshot of the top 10 states for nursing home care availability and choice:
| 1. Iowa | 6. Oklahoma |
| 2. South Dakota | 7. Missouri |
| 3. Kansas | 8. Arkansas |
| 4. Nebraska | 9. Wyoming |
| 5. North Dakota | 10. Louisiana |
Other key findings from the study, as published by Genworth Financial, include:
- The cost of care in a nursing home or assisted living facility continues to rise at a rate nearly twice that of the median annual inflation rate of 2.3 percent. The annual cost for a private nursing home room is $74,208, or $203 per day, representing an increase of 4 percent annually since 2005. At this rate, the cost is expected to exceed $270,000 a year in 30 years, when the nation’s youngest baby boomers will be in their mid-70’s.
- It is important to do research to make sure you get the most out of your investment when selecting a nursing home for an aging loved one. You may review our complete list of nursing homes, including details on Medicare and Medicaid, the number of beds and the owner of the facility.
- While nursing home and assisted living costs have risen sharply over the past five years, home care costs have remained relatively flat. The hourly private pay rate for a non-Medicare certified, state licensed home health aides is $18.50. Since 2005, the cost for this type of care has increased an annual rate of just 2 percent.
You may learn more about quality standards for senior home care agencies and request rates and services in your area to find out the pricing in your area and other details. This can assist you in planning for a loved one’s care and developing a budget or exploring long-term care insurance options to assist with payment. seniorcare, carecosts, retirement
