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Modern Estate Planning Blog

Elder Law & Special Needs Planning

How to Know When Your Loved One Needs In-Home Care

October 24, 2024

Alan Fisher with INDECARE In-Home Care joins elder law attorney Heather Chubb to share key signs, resources, and realities of bringing care into the home.

As Sacramento’s aging population grows, more families are finding themselves in unfamiliar territory—trying to decide when and how to bring help into the home for a loved one. Alan Fisher, founder of INDECARE In-Home Care, sat down with elder law attorney Heather Chubb to talk through the key signs that it may be time for support and how families in the greater Sacramento area can navigate this journey.

Why This Conversation Matters

“We’re all living longer,” said Fisher. “Right now, there are over 56 million adults over age 65 in the U.S., and that number is expected to reach 70 million by 2030. And the fastest-growing age group? Adults over 85.”

With aging comes more complex care needs, and Sacramento families are facing tough questions. The good news: new technology, local services, and in-home care options are making it easier to age in place safely and with dignity.

What In-Home Care Really Looks Like

INDECARE provides non-medical care and companionship services throughout the Sacramento area. These services are tailored to help seniors remain in their homes as long as possible. That support can include:

  • Help with bathing, dressing, and grooming
  • Meal preparation and light housekeeping
  • Transportation to appointments or errands
  • Medication reminders
  • Companionship and engagement

“A little care goes a long way,” Fisher said. “It’s not always about around-the-clock help. Sometimes just having someone check in, prep meals, or help with laundry makes all the difference—for both the senior and their family.”

Four Signs It Might Be Time for In-Home Support

Fisher shared four categories of changes that may indicate it’s time to consider home care:

1. Physical Decline

Watch for signs like recent falls, unexplained weight loss, difficulty standing, or needing furniture for balance.

2. Cognitive Changes

Memory lapses, confusion about time or place, increased irritability, or difficulty making decisions can all be early signs of cognitive decline.

3. Neglected Hygiene or Home

“If you notice your mom’s wearing the same clothes every time you visit, or the kitchen has expired food, those are red flags,” Fisher explained.

4. Medication or Safety Issues

Missing medications, leaving the stove on, or struggling with basic household tasks like cleaning or cooking are all signs that support may be needed.

What If Home Isn’t Safe Anymore?

Fisher acknowledged that in-home care is not always a long-term solution.

“Sometimes families hit a point where the needs are just too great,” he said. “Maybe care is required 24/7, or it becomes too complex for the family to manage. At that point, you may want to explore adult day programs, assisted living, or memory care communities—many of which we’re fortunate to have right here in the Sacramento area.”

The Cost of In-Home Care in Sacramento

In-home care is primarily private pay, and cost is often a major consideration for families.

“In the Sacramento market, most professional home care ranges from $38 to $42 per hour,” Fisher said. “Families might start with just 20 hours a week, but as needs increase, so do the costs. That’s why financial planning is key.”

Fisher encouraged families to look at options like:

  • Long-term care insurance
  • Veterans benefits
  • Reverse mortgage programs (HECM)
  • Working with an elder law attorney to plan ahead

Take the Next Step

If you’re wondering whether a loved one in the Sacramento area may need help at home—or if you simply want to be prepared—it’s never too early to explore your options.

“There are so many ways to bring care into the home,” Fisher said. “And it doesn’t have to mean giving up independence. In fact, the right kind of support can help someone hold on to their independence even longer.”

To learn more about in-home care, connect with Alan Fisher at INDECARE In-Home Care.
For legal planning or guidance around elder care, reach out to Heather Chubb and the Chubb Law Firm—your local experts in aging with dignity.

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Thanks for holding my hand. So glad you made things easier for me. I really don't know how I would have understood any of this without your knowledge.
Sandra

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