I. What You Should Know About Home Care in Murfreesboro, TN
Murfreesboro is a city just to the southeast of downtown Nashville. It has a population of around 158,000 people, 9% of whom are seniors aged 65 and older. Summers are hot, with July highs around 89, and winters are cold, with lows around 25. The city doesn’t get much snow but gets above-average amounts of rainfall each year. The air quality in the city is slightly above the national average, and the cost of living is comparable to the average cost across the states, which could be a few reasons seniors choose Murfreesboro to retire.
The Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital is located near the city center, so seniors have quick access to quality care for accidents and injury. This full-service hospital treats life-threatening conditions and specializes in heart and vascular care, orthopedics and intensive care. These amenities make Murfreesboro an excellent option for seniors who prefer to remain in their homes for as long as possible.
II. What You Should Expect to Pay for Home Care in Murfreesboro, TN
According to Genworth Financials’ 2021 Cost of Care Survey, home care in Murfreesboro costs approximately $4,767 per month for both homemaker and home health services, which is based on 44-hours a week of assistance. The exact cost of home care may vary depending on the types of services an individual needs and the number of hours care is required. To determine this cost in Murfreesboro, multiply the number of hours care is needed by $25 per hour.
The Cost of Home Care & Home Health Care in Nearby Cities
Homemaker services and home health care in Murfreesboro both have a median monthly cost of $4,767. This is more than the state average of $4,576 for both. The national average is $4,957 for homemaker services and $5,148 for home health care. The cost of home care in nearby Clarksville is the same as the cost in Murfreesboro. The cost in Jackson is $572 less for both. Chattanooga residents pay $4,767 for homemaker services and $4,744 for home health care.
The Cost of Home Care Compared to Other Senior Living Options
It’s important to consider the cost of other types of care when deciding on the appropriate type of long-term care. Homemaker services and a home health aide both cost around $4,767 in Murfreesboro, which is a middle cost option. The least expensive option is $1,842 per month, which provides help during the daytime hours only. An assisted living community costs around $4,100 per month, and the most extensive and expensive choice is nursing home care, at $7,270 per month for a semiprivate room.
Note: Data for Murfreesboro was unavailable, so data for the nearest city, Nashville, was used instead.
III. How to Find Home Care in Murfreesboro, TN
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 Murfreesboro, TN.
IV. Home Care Resources for Seniors in Murfreesboro, TN
Housing Rehabilitation Program
What You Should Know
The Housing Rehabilitation Program offers 5-year forgivable loans to help seniors make repairs and remove hazardous conditions, including the removal of lead paint. Once a home is accepted for the program and an inspection is performed to determine what repairs and upgrades need to be made. The program also offers tree removal and sewer tap assistance.
Who Is Eligible?
Program participants must attend a three-part financial counseling program before a contract is signed. Applicants must meet specific income requirements and must answer questions regarding family size.
How to Get Started
For more information about the Housing Rehabilitation Program, contact the Murfreesboro Community Development Department at (615) 890-4660.
Mid-Cumberland Meals-On-Wheels
What You Should Know
Meals-on-Wheels delivers hot meals to homebound seniors every Monday through Friday. These meals are prepared by a registered dietician and delivered by volunteers who also provide companionship and make well checks. The program also offers nutrition education and provides congregate meals at local senior centers. The program also delivers pet food to seniors with animals.
Who Is Eligible?
Seniors must be at least 60 years old and unable to prepare meals on their own or unable to travel for groceries and supplies without assistance.
How to Get Started
To sign up to receive meals, seniors should contact the Metro Social Services referral line at (615) 880-2495.
Rutherford County Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
What You Should Know
LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income seniors and families pay for past-due utility bills. In Tennessee, the program makes a one-time payment of up to $250 in the winter and $325 in the summer directly to the utility company or home energy provider for heating and cooling costs.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible seniors must be a resident of Tennessee and require immediate energy assistance. Families must also meet the income requirements, which are set based on the federal poverty guidelines. A family of one can make no more than $20,385 before taxes. These individuals must meet specific income requirements. Seniors who participate in SNAP, SSI and TANF are automatically accepted into the program.
How to Get Started
To apply for LIHEAP, seniors should contact the Mid-Cumberland Community Action Agency at (615) 742-1113. Applications may be downloaded and submitted at the local Community Action Agency.
Rutherford County Tax Freeze
What You Should Know
Seniors may apply for property tax relief through the Tennessee Homestead Tax Freeze Program. Under the program, seniors may freeze their tax amount for the year they apply so the amount they pay remains the same even if taxes increase.
Who Is Eligible?
Seniors who are 65 and older or are disabled may qualify for the exemption. Seniors must provide proof of age and proof of ownership and evidence the property is the primary residence. Income records include federal tax returns with all documentation. Other items include bank statements and awards letters from retirement and Social Security benefits.
How to Get Started
Applications are accepted from October to April every year. To apply, seniors should contact the office at (800) 232-5454.
Middle Tennessee Electric Weatherization Assistance
What You Should Know
The Weatherization Assistance Program is a federally funded program that helps seniors reduce their electric bills through home improvements. Weatherization may include installing floor, wall and attic insulation, duct and air sealing, window replacement and installation, caulking and replacing old or non-working appliances.
Who Is Eligible?
The program helps seniors with incomes no greater than 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Individuals must provide proof of income, proof of homeownership and must reside within the county of the application.
How to Get Started
For more information on the program, contact the Mid-Cumberland Community Action Program at (615) 742-1113 or the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency at (615) 563-2916. Applications may also be downloaded and submitted in person.
Tennessee Respite Coalition
What You Should Know
The Tennessee Respite Coalition provides breaks to the families and caregivers of those who care for seniors remaining in their homes and the community. Volunteers can provide temporary or regular relief for specific hours of the week to allow caregivers to take care of their own needs and to rest.
Who Is Eligible?
Caregivers of adults and children with special needs are eligible for help through the Tennessee Respite Coalition.
How to Get Started
To get started, contact the statewide respite helpline at (888) 579-3754.
St. Clair Senior Center
What You Should Know
The St. Clair Senior Center is located in Murfreesboro and was established to provide seniors aged 60 and older with a safe place to socialize and take part in activities and receive a variety of services that help improve their overall quality of life. The center also plans regular group trips to points of interest nearby and within the community. Activities include arts and crafts, health and fitness programs, health screenings and volunteer opportunities. The center also provides educational classes in computers, dance and health and provides transportation to and from the center.
Who Is Eligible?
The center is open free of charge to seniors aged 60 and older in the community.
How to Get Started
Seniors can schedule transportation to and from home by contacting the center at (615) 848-2550.