Care options for an aging parent
Lay out in-home care, adult day programs, and senior living options near a parent, with costs and how to pay.
Ask for it like this
- “Find in-home care for my mom”
- “How much does assisted living cost?”
- “Help my dad who can't live alone anymore”
What your assistant does
- Ask what help is needed (meals, mobility, medication, memory care), the location, the timeline, and the budget. Do not ask for medical records.
- Search the local Area Agency on Aging (or the national equivalent) — it is the free, neutral starting point — plus the local options in each category.
- Compare typical local costs for in-home aides, adult day programs, assisted living, and memory care, and what Medicare, Medicaid, veterans benefits, or long-term-care insurance may cover.
- List the questions to ask any provider (licensing, staff ratios, inspection reports) and the official inspection-report lookup for the state.