Is it Cheaper to Age in Place or Move to a Nursing Home?

As our loved ones grow older, the question of whether they should age in place or move to a nursing home looms closer over their heads. Some people believe that the added expenses that come with aging in place are not worth the extra cost. Others want to maintain their independence and are willing to invest in extra equipment to help them stay at home, like a stair lift. Pittsburgh experts, 3 Birds Accessibility, explores this commonly asked question in its latest blog post. If you or a loved one is stuck on this important decision, check out this blog post now. 

Aging in Place vs. Moving Into a Nursing Home

Check out the costs typically associated with aging in place vs. using a nursing home

As we grow older and closer to the age of retirement, we need to consider where we want to spend our golden years. Do we age in place at the building we have called home for years? Or should we move to a nursing home once we realize we need extra assistance? This is not an easy question to answer. While one option might be beneficial for one person, it might be impractical for another. 

Cost plays an important role in deciding whether to age in place or move into a nursing home. Let’s examine both the costs and benefits that each of these respective places offers. 

Costs and Benefits of Aging in Place

According to a study by the AARP, 90% of U.S. citizens plan to age in place. But for many people, they need to purchase new equipment or renovate their property in order to accommodate their health conditions. This can incur extra costs over the years. They might also have to hire a private nurse to assist them. 

The average cost of these services is as follows:

• $4,350-$5,18 for assisted living services in PA
• $2,800-$5,000 for a stair lift
• $243 for a grab bar
• $1,495 for a tub cut out

Costs and Benefits of Going to a Nursing Home

At a nursing home, elderly citizens do not have to worry about performing any renovations themselves. They will also be monitored by experienced nurses and health professionals. No longer will they need to prepare their own meals, as that is handled by the nursing home’s cooking staff. However, these services all add up. In Pittsburgh, the average cost of living in a nursing home adds up to $8,580 a month. 

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the price of aging in place vs. moving to a nursing home depends on a variety of different factors. For some people, aging in place is more cost-effective and practical than moving into a nursing home. For others, the extra care and supervision that a nursing home offers are worth the cost. 

That’s why it is crucial to factor in your loved one’s unique needs and life situation when deciding whether they should age in place or move into a nursing home. 

Equipment You Might Need to Purchase If You Decide to Age in Place

Need a stair lift? Pittsburgh retirement expert 3 Birds is ready to help ou

For many people, aging in place is worth any extra costs. In order to remain at home, they may have to purchase home care solutions to help them get around the house safely. Here are some of the most common home services that people choose. 

Stair Lift

If you or your loved one struggles with stairs, you might need to purchase a stair lift. Pittsburgh homes are typically able to accommodate these stair lifts. If someone in the household uses a wheelchair, you can purchase a lift that can carry wheelchairs.

People who use stair lifts usually have conditions like heart disease or arthritis which make it difficult for them to move up and down regular stairs. Installing a stair lift allows them to maintain their independence inside their own home. 

Wheelchair Ramp

Wheelchair ramps are crucial for elderly people who use a wheelchair or electric scooter. You can instill wheelchair ramps either outside or inside the house depending on where your loved one needs assistance. 

Door Widening

There’s nothing more frustrating than attempting to move through a narrow door frame that can barely accommodate your wheelchair. If you use a wheelchair, it might be helpful to hire someone to widen your doors. 

Grab Bar

Consider installing a sturdy grab bar to hold onto for maintaining balance and preventing falls in the bathroom. Grab bars are great tools for helping you get in and out of the bathtub. Some people also install grab bars near their toilets to help them safely sit down and get up. 

Tub Cut-Out

Slippery bathtubs are a common hazard in bathrooms. To make it easier to get in and out of them, you can purchase a tub cut-out. Instead of having to step over a high bathtub edge, you can quickly enter it for easy access. 

Does your loved one prefer aging at home over moving into a nursing home? Aging in place offers a variety of benefits to your loved one. But sometimes, staying at home requires some new additions to the household. Let’s help your loved one feel at home again. Get in touch with Three Birds Accessibility Solutions today to get started with your accessible remodel in Pittsburgh.