How much does in-home care cost?

Generally, facility care is said to be more expensive than home care. This article will introduce an estimate of the costs involved in home care, hoping it will help you in making your choice.

According to a 2018 survey by the Japan Institute of Life Insurance, the average monthly cost of home care is approximately 78,000 yen. The main breakdown of monthly expenses includes the fees for home care visits and helpers, as well as the costs for attending day services and other care facilities. Additionally, there are expenses for remodeling the home to be barrier-free for easier care, and costs for purchasing care products and, in some cases, wheelchairs. The average for these one-time expenses is about 690,000 yen, but a certain amount of benefits will be paid from long-term care insurance if you complete the necessary procedures.

Furthermore, the cost of home care varies significantly depending on whether family members live together. While home care relies on family cooperation and understanding, if the person lives alone, the costs can be even higher. Many families find themselves under significant physical and mental strain due to having to quit their jobs for home care, or because the costs are higher than expected.

Considering both the caregiver and the care recipient, we highly recommend actively consulting with a care manager or someone with care experience in your area.