Caregiving costs can be daunting. From paying for parents’ medical tests to caring for your children, caring for others is both time and money consuming. Your debt management process can be in jeopardy if you don’t take control of caregiving costs.
Follow ACCC’s advice to take control of caregiving costs.
Take Control of Caregiving Costs
Understand the unpredictability and make a plan:
Many people underestimate how long their family member or friend will need help. It is important to understand that caregiving may be needed for a long period of time. So, ensure that there is enough money set aside to pay for these services. Sit down with those connected to the individual in need of care in order to analyze the costs. Budgeting is going to become especially important.
Extend the conversation to outside available resources:
It is important to ask for advice from human and financial resources. Get recommendations from doctors and lawyers for any service providers. Find faith-based or community resources that can assist with transportation or companion care needs. Also, gauge which neighbors, family, or friends can be called on in a crisis.
Research facilities and long-term insurance early:
Looking at facilities early is a necessary part to take control of caregiving costs. This is because most facilities have waiting lists. And no one should make a housing decision under duress. You should evaluate senior living communities before you invest. It is important to look into insurance plans before they are needed in order to find a long-term solution that covers certified nursing assistants, assisted living, and adult day care.
Acknowledge that hiring an outside caregiver may be the best option:
Most people begin looking for a caregiver or assume the role of one after a medical emergency. However, this is not ideal to take control of caregiving costs. Even though becoming a caregiver may seem like a cheaper alternative, more often than not, this is not the case. This is due to the fact that people are often forced to quit their jobs, usually during their peak earnings period – affecting not just their income and career trajectories, but also future Social Security benefits. It is recommended to scale back hours or take a more flexible position if necessary, even if all earnings go toward hired care.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
