There were 3.1 million family caregivers in Texas in 2021 who provided $41 billion in unpaid care.1 Family caregivers provide unpaid supervision and support for individuals with disabilities or who have trouble with activities of daily living (ADLs). Not all caregivers support seniors, but a significant number of them do. In fact, nearly two-thirds of seniors rely on family caregivers. Caregivers experience their own emotional—and often financial—strain related to their duties. If you live in the state and provide care, it might be time to research how much assisted living services cost in Texas.
Buckner offers assisted living services in Texas at our six senior living communities. We know the decision to look into getting help for your loved one can be difficult, but your health and finances should not suffer. Take the first step in getting your loved one help and schedule a visit to one of our communities by calling 214.227.7182 today.
The Cost of Caregiving
Family caregiving can involve duties that are more highly skilled than they appear. Even if direct medical care is not involved, caregivers often assist with:
- Managing medications
- Transportation
- ADLs like showering, cooking, and dressing
- Housekeeping and shopping
- Advocating for their senior loved one
- Working with doctors and/or insurance companies about medical bills
These tasks can take more time than a full-time job. Many caregivers end up having to reduce or completely give up their paid work in order to provide care. This can lead to financial hardship and strain on the caregiver’s own physical and mental health.
Breaking Down the Costs of Assisted Living
Assisted living is a type of long-term care that provides assistance with ADLs and other services such as medication management, transportation, and meals. It can be a good option for seniors who need some help with daily tasks but do not require the level of care provided in a nursing home.
Residents of assisted living communities will see different costs depending on:
- Care and treatment needed
- Amenities
- Location
- Type of residence (private room, shared room, etc.)
If you’re considering getting help for a parent or loved one in assisted living, the sticker shock of the cost might be a surprise. However, there are some ways to budget for assisted living, and if you’re able to start working again, you can help offset costs.
Texas Assisted Living Costs Also Vary
The largest state in the continental U.S. undoubtedly has a wide range of living costs. Staying in Dallas or Austin may be more expensive than Longview or San Angelo. While there are benefits of living in the city (proximity to specialized care and opportunities for entertainment), you may find that smaller towns provide more affordable options for assisted living.
Budget Planning for Senior Living
The move to assisted living is a major decision and should be approached with research and planning. When you’re looking at the cost of assisted living, remember there are some ways to lessen the expected financial burden.
- Regaining paid work opportunities – With the right help, many caregivers can begin working again. The boost in finances can help offset the costs associated with assisted living.
- Veterans or military spouses – If your loved one was a veteran or a spouse of a veteran, they may be eligible for VA benefits that can help cover the cost of assisted living.
- Selling a home – If your loved one owns a home, selling it can help cover the cost of assisted living. This is especially true if they have already moved into an assisted living community.
- Long-term care insurance – If your loved one has a long-term healthcare insurance policy, it may cover some or all of the cost of assisted living.
Taking the time to research and plan for the cost of assisted living can help alleviate financial strain and provide peace of mind for both caregivers and senior loved ones.
Call Buckner Retirement Services Today
Talking with one of our staff about specific assisted living costs in our Texas communities can help you make a more informed decision about your loved one’s care. Our team is here to answer any questions and assist you in exploring options for financing assisted living services. Give us a call at 214.227.7182 or schedule a tour of our communities online today.
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