I. What You Should Know About Home Care in Chesapeake, VA
More than a quarter of a million people live in Chesapeake as of the 2021 U.S. Census report, and approximately 33,167 of them are aged 65 and older. The population size is very similar to that of nearby Norfolk, but Chesapeake’s much larger land area provides more space per person. The relatively steady year-round climate of Chesapeake is preferable for many seniors, with little snow and mild summers.
Water and air quality are above average for the United States, which helps you stay healthy, and the average life expectancy of 78.5 is also higher than the national average of 77.3 years. Health concerns are still an unfortunate part of life, however, which makes it all the more important that you and your family have access to great care when needed. There are 19 hospitals in the region, including Chesapeake Regional Medical Center and Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Aside from these major medical institutions, there are many smaller clinics, specialists and home health care providers to keep you healthy and independent for as long as possible.
These are just some of the reasons why long-time residents and newcomers alike choose to live and receive the necessary care in Chesapeake as they age.
II. What You Should Expect to Pay for Home Care in Chesapeake, VA
The average cost of home care for seniors in Chesapeake is $4,767 per month, according to the Genworth Financial 2021 Cost of Care Survey, and this figure is based on the need for 44 hours of help each week. As such, you can expect to pay around $25 per hour. Chesapeake’s average costs are the same for both home care and home health services, with the latter being much more appropriate if you have medical conditions that require monitoring and treatment from certified personnel.
The Cost of Home Care & Home Health Care in Nearby Cities
Chesapeake has the same average cost as Virginia overall for senior home care, but the statewide average for home health care is higher by $187 per month. The national average is higher by $190 and $381 per month for home care and home health care, respectively. Charlottesville is much more expensive, at $6,292 per month in either case, and seniors in Richmond pay around $400-$450 more than those in Chesapeake. The most affordable area of Virginia is Lynchburg, with average savings of around $500-$600 compared to Chesapeake.
The Cost of Home Care Compared to Other Senior Living Options
When used on a full-time basis, both types of in-home care for seniors have an average cost that’s $77 per month higher than the cost of assisted living. Other modes of care aren’t as comparable in cost. Adult day care costs around $3,000 per month less than in-home services, whereas a nursing home will cost you $3,643 more.
Note: Data for Chesapeake was unavailable, so data for the nearest city, Virginia Beach, was used instead.
III. How to Find Home Care in Chesapeake, VA
Finding a home care provider for yourself or a loved one can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Below, we explain the process of how to find a home care provider in 5 simple steps. Use the infographic below to help guide your search for in-home care in Chesapeake, VA.
IV. Home Care Resources for Seniors in Chesapeake, VA
Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia (SSEVA)
What You Should Know
SSEVA is a nonprofit organization that’s dedicated to helping the senior population remain independent for as long as possible by providing services in the home and community. One of the most popular services is on-demand transportation to medical appointments, shopping, adult day care and senior centers in the area. Personal care and companionship in the home is provided to eligible residents, and you may qualify for home-delivered meals if you can’t get out to a local center for group lunches. Information and assistance for caregivers is also available.
Who Is Eligible?
The minimum age for most services is 60, as they are funded via the Older Americans Act. Some services are only available to people with low to moderate income while others are only open to people with disabilities and certain functional requirements.
How to Get Started
To ask questions and request services, you can call the main office at (757) 461-9481.
Chesapeake Senior Centers and Clubs
What You Should Know
The city manages several activities and clubs at various locations, including Rokeby Center and The Portlock. If you’re aged 55 or older, you can take part in group activities such as low-impact aerobics and other senior-friendly exercise classes, bingo, pickleball and several styles of dance. Regularly scheduled bus trips, other outings and seasonal events are available, with notices posted on the website, and the city also provides therapeutic recreation programs with a focus on restoring motor, social and cognitive function.
Who Is Eligible?
Most programs and events are for anyone aged 55 and older. Any exceptions to this will be noted alongside the program description on the website, as is the cost per person if applicable. Registration is required for many of the events.
How to Get Started
You can find more details, activity schedules and locations via the website. Information is also available by calling (757) 382-6411 or emailing [email protected].
Meals on Wheels of Chesapeake
What You Should Know
As the local chapter of the nationwide Meals on Wheels of America, this nonprofit and its volunteer drivers provide nutritious meals to Chesapeake seniors and others who can’t shop for or prepare meals. There is a menu posted on the website to give you an idea of what to expect, which includes meals such as lasagna, baked ziti, fried fish sandwiches and chicken Parmesan. Substitutions for some special diets are also available. In addition to food, this service provides safety checks and social connection that many seniors would otherwise go without.
Who Is Eligible?
Meal delivery is available for seniors, people with disabilities and those recovering from illness. Residents in the following zip codes may qualify: 23320, 23322, 23323, 23324 and 23325. The final eligibility determination is made after the application and screening process.
How to Get Started
The office takes calls from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays at (757) 312-6458 and can be reached by email at [email protected].
Rent/Utility and Other Assistance
What You Should Know
Seniors and families may be eligible for one or more of the assistance programs offered by the City of Chesapeake. These programs include help paying rent and utility bills, food stamps and access to Medicaid. Listings and contact details for dozens of local resources are also available in the Chesapeake Resource Guide, with the most recent edition posted on the website.
Who Is Eligible?
These programs are intended to help low-income residents of Chesapeake. The maximum allowable income fluctuates yearly and varies from program to program, so you should contact the relevant service provider directly to find out if you qualify.
How to Get Started
Contact details for each program are listed on the website. For assistance with rent and utility payments, you can call (757) 382-2072.
Real Estate Tax Relief Program
What You Should Know
Homeowners in Chesapeake may be eligible for a real estate tax reduction of up to 100% based on their household income. This could help you free up some extra money to pay for in-home care and other necessary services to remain independent, and the program is still available if you have a mortgage. A mobile home is also eligible for tax relief if you own it, regardless of who owns the land.
Who Is Eligible?
This program is for residents aged 65 and older, as well as people with disabilities at any age, who own and occupy the home in question. Tax relief is provided on a sliding scale, with a maximum household income of $62,000 per year. Participants in the program must have no more than $350,000 in assets, but the home and land value isn’t counted toward this limit.
How to Get Started
Further details can be found on the website, as well as an application form that can be mailed or dropped off at local offices for the Commissioner of the Revenue. You can contact the main office at City Hall by calling (757) 382-6698.