I. What You Should Know About Home Care in Largo, FL
Florida is one of the most popular places to spend your senior years, and in Largo, older adults benefit from the state’s warm weather, low living costs and great access to health care. Largo has a high number of Medicare-registered physicians and a hospital within the city limits: HCA Florida Largo Hospital. More than 26% of the population is aged 65 and older, which is 10% higher than the national average.
The average summer temperature in Largo is above 90 degrees, and winter lows rarely get below 50 degrees. While the amount of rain in the area is above average, the city rarely gets any measurable snow. The American Lung Association gives Pinellas County a grade of A for ozone pollution and a passing grade for particle pollution.
Largo is one of the largest cities in Pinellas County, which is a member of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. This means the county is focused on creating a place where older adults can thrive. This is demonstrated by the numerous resources that benefit seniors and their families. Many of these programs are available for free or at a very low cost. This makes Largo a great place to get home care.
II. What You Should Expect to Pay for Home Care in Largo, FL
According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey for 2021, the average cost of in-home care in Largo is $4,767 per month. The median price for home health care is $4,862 per month. Home health care is a bit more expensive because it involves some light medical services. These figures are based on 44 hours of caregiving per week, so your monthly costs will vary depending on how much help you need. In-home care costs $25 per hour, and home health care costs $25.50 per hour.
The Cost of Home Care & Home Health Care in Nearby Cities
Home care costs in Largo are nearly identical to the state average and just a bit lower than the national averages. In nearby Homosassa Springs, seniors pay an average of $4,273 for in-home care and $4,559 for home health care. Lakeland is slightly more expensive at $4,576 for in-home care and $4,481 for home health care. Both types of home care cost $5,720 per month in North Port.
The Cost of Home Care Compared to Other Senior Living Options
If you need 44 hours of caregiver assistance per week, home care and home health care are more expensive than assisted living, which has a monthly price of $3,350. Adult day care is even less expensive at $2,123 per month. Nursing homes are the most expensive senior care option in Largo. A semiprivate room has an average monthly rate of $8,927.
Note: Data for Largo was unavailable, so data for the nearest city, Tampa, was used instead.
III. How to Find Home Care in Largo, FL
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 Largo, FL.
IV. Home Care Resources for Seniors in Largo, FL
Pinellas County Home Owner Programs
What You Should Know
Pinellas County offers two programs that homeowners in Largo can use to improve their property. The Home Repair Loan Program provides zero-interest financing for low-income residents who want to make repairs of any kind. The Independent Living Program is targeted at low-income seniors who need to make aging-in-place modifications. Grants can be used for wheelchair ramps, bathroom grab bars, railings and other special equipment. Both programs may only be available on a limited basis. You can receive up to $7,000 with this grant.
Who Is Eligible?
The Home Repair Loan program has income requirements that change year to year. To qualify for the Independent Living Program, you must live in Pinellas County and earn no more than 80% of the area’s median income. You must also occupy or plan to occupy the home that’s being improved.
How to Get Started
To sign up for either homeowner program, you must fill out an application using the Pinellas County Participant Portal.
Senior Homestead Exemption
What You Should Know
In addition to the standard exemption given to many residents in Pinellas County, the senior homestead program provides an additional tax exemption of $25,000 for seniors in Largo on the assessed value of their home. This can provide a savings of up to $145 per year, but this is subject to increase. The county will automatically renew this exemption if you have already applied and been approved. There’s a random audit of 2,000 participants annually to ensure compliance.
Who Is Eligible?
Homeowners who already get the standard homestead exemption and are at least 65 may qualify for the program. Applicants must also meet certain income requirements set by the Florida Department of Revenue every year. Residents in Belleair Shore are not eligible for this exemption.
How to Get Started
You can file an application for both the standard exemption and the senior homestead exemption online. You can also apply at the tax assessor’s Mid-County office in Largo.
Meals on Wheels of Pinellas
What You Should Know
Meals on Wheels of Pinellas delivers hot, nutritious meals to the doorsteps of seniors Monday through Friday. Meals are designed by a registered dietitian to meet all the recipient’s nutritional requirements. Volunteers who make deliveries can check on seniors to make sure that they’re doing well, giving peace of mind to you and your family. This program is run by the Neighborly Care Network. Seniors who are willing and able to go outside the home can enjoy a complimentary meal at one of the network’s senior cafés. Free transportation to and from the cafés is provided. Nutrition counseling is also available.
Who Is Eligible?
All residents in Pinellas County are eligible for low-cost meal deliveries if they meet certain requirements. To qualify for free meals, seniors must be housebound and unable to prepare or make their own nutritious food.
How to Get Started
You can call the Neighborly Care Network at (727) 573-9444 to sign up or to learn more about Meals on Wheels of Pinellas.
LIHEAP and Weatherization Assistance
What You Should Know
The Pinellas County Urban League provides two programs designed to save low-income seniors money on their cooling bills. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program offers home energy assistance, crisis assistance and weather-related assistance. These provide a cash payment that allows low-income seniors to pay their energy bills. The Weatherization Assistance Program aims to improve the efficiency of cooling systems to help seniors save money. Services include air infiltration reduction, solar window screens, refrigerator replacement and HVAC system replacement. The program can also improve water heating efficiency if needed.
Who Is Eligible?
Residents can qualify for these energy-saving programs if they earn $25,520 per year or less for a single household and no more than $34,480 for a two-person household. Income limits increase for each additional household member.
How to Get Started
You can apply for LIHEAP and weatherization by using the Online Application For Assistance.
Caregiver Support
What You Should Know
The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas offers support programs and services to family caregivers in Largo who need help and want to improve the level of care they provide. Its programs include respite, care coordination, educational courses and a helpline. Evidence-based classes help caregivers increase their skills, develop more effective strategies and appreciate the scope of their work. Special courses are available to help families caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. This Area Agency on Aging also offers in-home services, transportation, nutrition support and benefits counseling.
Who Is Eligible?
Caregiver support services from this AAA are available to anyone who requests assistance. Other programs offered by the organization may have their own conditions and income requirements.
How to Get Started
To sign up for a program or to learn more about the help that this AAA has to offer, you can call (800) 963-5337.