In Quebec, many seniors choose to remain in their own homes for as long as possible. This decision is often supported by a caregiver or by home support services. While this may seem like the ideal solution at first glance, it’s important to consider its limitations. Costs related to care, home adaptations, the burden on caregivers, and access to healthcare services are all crucial aspects to evaluate.
The Costs of Home Support and Services
For seniors who have lived in their homes for a long time, housing costs are often low. However, in cases of loss of autonomy, the expenses associated with care and services can quickly become significant. While some professional services are available free of charge at home through the public health network, access is limited. Due to high demand, many seniors end up on waiting lists. Others may simply not qualify.
In many cases, caregivers must fill in the gaps, taking on tasks such as bathing assistance, meal preparation, housekeeping, accompaniment outside the home, or even providing basic healthcare.
Adapting Your Home to Your Needs
Staying at home also means adapting the living environment to ensure safety. This might include installing grab bars in the bathroom, adding access ramps, installing a stair lift, or even completely renovating a bathroom. These renovations can represent substantial costs, often entirely borne by the senior or their family.
For example, installing a stair lift can cost up to $6,000, an amount that is rarely fully reimbursed through public programs. Fortunately, some home support-related expenses may qualify for the tax credit for home support, a financial support measure offered by Revenu Québec. This tax credit can help reduce a portion of the costs, particularly those related to home adaptations or certain home support services.
That said, it’s essential to carefully evaluate these potential costs as part of the overall budget, taking into account available support and the real capacity to create a safe and adapted environment.
Daily Life at Home: Costs You Shouldn’t Underestimate
Beyond care and renovations, other recurring costs must be considered: uncovered medications, transportation to medical appointments, groceries, electricity, heating, telecommunications, maintenance, and more. These expenses, though often underestimated, can add up quickly, especially when a loss of autonomy is involved.
The Demanding Role of the Caregiver
The caregiver often becomes the cornerstone of aging at home. This person may be a child, a spouse, or a close friend. When public services fall short, it’s up to the caregiver to assist the senior daily.
This role can become very demanding, particularly when the senior requires continuous care. Caregiver burnout is a well-documented reality. It’s therefore essential to plan for periods of respite, whether by relying on other family members or by exploring available external resources.
In this regard, some senior living residences offer short-term stays, also known as respite stays. These allow seniors to be temporarily housed in a safe environment with access to appropriate care and services, while the caregiver takes time to rest or attend to personal matters. This is a valuable solution to help maintain balance for everyone involved.
How to Make the Right Choice?
Given the current challenges in accessing care and the many responsibilities tied to aging at home, it may be worth considering other options. Private senior living residences, for instance, often offer all-inclusive packages that combine meals, housekeeping, activities, and health services, all in a secure and adapted environment.
Ultimately, the greater the loss of autonomy, the more complex the needs become, and the more costly and demanding it is to remain at home. Even a senior who is still independent may feel isolated living alone. Comparing the costs and benefits of different housing options can help make an informed decision, based on each person’s reality and needs.
Need Help Evaluating Your Options?
Bonjour Résidences is here to support you in the process. We help you compare costs, check your eligibility for tax credits, and find senior living residences that meet your needs. Contact our senior housing specialists at 1 844 918-1020 or fill out an online request.
