The Cost Conversation Nobody Wants to Have
Home care costs are one of the first things families ask about — and one of the most confusing topics to navigate. The good news is that multiple programs can help offset the cost for qualifying individuals. The key is knowing which programs apply to your situation and applying early, since many have waitlists.
What Does Home Care Cost in Ohio?
Non-medical home care in Northeast Ohio typically ranges from $25 to $40 per hour depending on the level of care, number of hours per week, and the agency. Many families start with 10–20 hours per week and adjust as needs change.
For perspective, the median annual cost of a private room in an Ohio nursing home exceeds $100,000. Non-medical home care — even at 40 hours per week — often costs significantly less while allowing your loved one to remain in the comfort of their own home.
Option 1: Long-Term Care Insurance
If your loved one purchased long-term care insurance, this is often the best first option to explore. Policies vary widely, but many cover:
- Non-medical home care services
- Personal care assistance
- Respite care for family caregivers
Review the policy carefully for:
- Elimination period: The number of days you must pay out-of-pocket before benefits begin (typically 30–90 days).
- Daily or monthly benefit amount: The maximum the policy will pay per day or month.
- Benefit triggers: Most policies activate when the insured cannot perform two or more Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) independently.
- Qualifying providers: Some policies require care from a licensed agency.
Call the insurance company with the policy number and request a benefits summary in writing.
Option 2: VA Benefits for Veterans
Veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for significant home care funding through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Key programs include:
Aid and Attendance (A&A) Pension
This is one of the most underutilized benefits available. Veterans who served at least 90 days of active duty (with one day during wartime) may qualify for a monthly pension supplement that can cover home care costs. As of 2025, the benefit can reach:
- Up to $2,300/month for a veteran with a dependent
- Up to $1,900/month for a single veteran
- Up to $1,200/month for a surviving spouse
There is no requirement to have a service-connected disability. Financial and care need eligibility thresholds apply. The application process takes several months, so applying early is critical.
PCAFC (Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers)
For post-9/11 veterans with serious injuries, this program provides stipends and support to family caregivers who provide home care.
Homemaker and Home Health Aide Program
Enrolled VA healthcare users may be eligible for home care hours through VA-contracted agencies, sometimes at no cost to the veteran.
Option 3: Ohio Medicaid — PASSPORT Waiver
Ohio's PASSPORT (Pre-Admission Screening System Providing Options and Resources Today) waiver is the primary Medicaid program that funds non-medical home care for low-income seniors. To qualify:
- You must be 60 years or older
- Meet Ohio nursing home level of care criteria
- Have income and assets below Medicaid thresholds
- Live in a home or community setting (not a nursing facility)
PASSPORT covers personal care, homemaking, and other services. There is often a waitlist, so apply as early as possible. Contact the Lake/Geauga/Cuyahoga Area Agency on Aging to begin the assessment process.
Option 4: Ohio's STABLE Account
For individuals with disabilities established before age 26, Ohio STABLE accounts allow tax-advantaged savings that can be used for qualified disability-related expenses — including home care services.
Option 5: Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts
If you or a family member has an HSA or FSA through an employer, home care expenses for a dependent may qualify as a medical deduction. Consult your plan administrator or tax advisor to confirm eligibility.
Option 6: Dependent Care Tax Credit
If you pay for home care for a qualifying person while you work, you may be eligible for the federal Dependent Care Tax Credit. This can offset a portion of care expenses at tax time. Consult a tax professional to determine your eligibility and maximum benefit.
Private Pay: More Flexible Than You Think
For families who pay privately, quality agencies like Guardian Community Care offer:
- No long-term contracts — pay as you go, adjust hours as needs change
- Transparent hourly rates with no hidden fees
- Flexible scheduling from a few hours per week to full-time care
Many families combine private pay with long-term care insurance or VA benefits to manage costs effectively.
Getting Help Navigating Benefits
Navigating these programs can be overwhelming. These local resources can help:
- Lake/Geauga/Cuyahoga Area Agency on Aging: Free benefits counseling and PASSPORT waiver intake
- Ohio Benefits: Online portal for Medicaid screening and applications
- VA Benefits Counselors: Free assistance at local VA centers and county veterans services offices
- SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program): Free Medicare and insurance counseling
Guardian Community Care works with families navigating these programs every day. Call (440) 290-6005 to discuss your options with our care team.
