I. What You Should Know About Home Care in New Castle, IN
Founded in 1822, New Castle, Indiana, is a manufacturing center surrounded by picturesque farmland on the Big Blue River. This community of 17,113 welcomes retirees. As one of the city’s 3,097 senior citizens, you’ll enjoy a very low cost of living and a convenient location just 45 miles from Indianapolis. The cost of essentials, such as housing, health care and transportation, is up to 25% lower than the national average, which can help you maximize your retirement funds.
If you’re concerned about safety, violent and property crime rates fall significantly below the national average. Also, the area has a relatively pleasant climate. While winters are chilly, snowfall is minimal, and temperatures rise into the 80s during the summer. Predominantly sunny skies may encourage you to get out and visit Summit Lake State Park, Baker Park or the Henry County Farmers Market.
Although New Castle is an archetypal small town, the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame attracts visitors from far and wide, and the Henry County Historical Society Museum features unique artifacts as well as extensive genealogic records if you’re interested in learning more about your roots. More importantly, a variety of local, state and nonprofit resources can help you age in place.
II. What You Should Expect to Pay for Home Care in New Castle, IN
Genworth Financial’s 2020 Cost of Care Survey shows that the average cost of home care in New Castle is approximately $4,099 per month. This breaks down to roughly $21.50 per hour based on 44 hours of weekly care. Homemaker services help with errands, chores and household tasks. With added medical services, including physical therapy, wound care and personal assistance, prices rise to $23.50 per hour or $4,481 per month, which is slightly lower than the state and national average. Additionally, seniors can book the amount of services that they need, which may help with budgeting.
The Cost of Home Care & Home Health Care in Nearby Cities
Home care prices in central Indiana tend to be more affordable than the national average, but New Castle is particularly competitive. Local seniors save about $95 per month on home health care compared to the state and national average. Homemaker services in New Castle average around $4,099 per month, which is $477 lower than nearby Kokomo and $382 lower than the national average. The area is also $286 more affordable than Indianapolis and the state as a whole and $191 cheaper than Fort Wayne, at $4,290.
The Cost of Home Care Compared to Other Senior Living Options
Long-term care spending varies significantly depending on the type of support you need. Skilled nursing facilities are the most expensive option, with an average cost of $6,578 per month. Assisted living prices are relatively competitive at $4,645. Home health care is $164 cheaper than assisted living, and homemaker services cost $546 less per month. Adult day health care provided at a community-based senior center is another competitively priced option. Unlike other options, home care is typically billed hourly, so actual costs may vary.
III. How to Find Home Care in New Castle, IN
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 New Castle, IN.
Remember that there’s not necessarily a right or wrong choice – it comes down to choosing a provider that you feel comfortable with and who’s capable of meeting your specific needs. No matter which provider you choose, you should always have a formal arrangement with your expectations and the payment rate in writing. Doing so will prevent confusion or potential disagreements down the line so that the focus remains on helping the person receiving care.
IV. Home Care Resources for Seniors in New Castle, IN
LifeStream Services Inc.
What You Should Know
As the Area Agency on Aging for New Castle and 12 counties in east-central Indiana, LifeStream Services is a comprehensive resource for anyone who wants to learn more about aging in place. Every year, it provides more than 250,000 meals, 108,000 hours of in-home care and 63,000 rides to nearly 20,000 area seniors. Nutritional services include farmers market vouchers, food deliveries and group dining at 20 congregate meal sites. Transportation is available for medical appointments and personal errands. If you’re looking for in-home assistance, a LifeStream options counselor can schedule an in-home visit to assess your needs and develop a personalized plan of care. Services can begin in 30 days or less, depending on your needs.
Who Is Eligible?
Thanks to federal funding from the Older Americans Act, many free services are available to seniors aged 60 and older. Meals may require a nominal donation, and eligibility for certain forms of direct care is based on medical need. Disabled adults and family caregivers also qualify for assistance.
How to Get Started
For more information about aging in place, call LifeStream at (765) 759-1121. To request transportation, dial (888) 589-1121.
Indiana Legal Services, Inc.
What You Should Know
If you plan on aging in place, you may need assistance with legal issues related to housing, health care, public benefits and estate planning. The organization’s senior law program focuses on consumer rights, scam prevention, advance directives, wills, long-term care and retirement benefits. It offers informational guides and brochures about issues that affect seniors. Advocates with Legal Assistance for Victimized Adults and the Indiana State Guardianship Association serve adults who are facing specific challenges related to decision-making, abuse or exploitation.
Who Is Eligible?
This legal aid organization serves individuals who earn up to 125% or 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Income limits vary by program. You can also find free legal information online at IndianaLegalHelp.org or by calling Indiana 211. Spanish language assistance is available.
How to Get Started
If you need help with a legal issue, call the Indianapolis Office at (317) 631-9410. Clients are prescreened Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Intakes are handled from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. or by calling (844) 243-8570.
New Castle-Henry County Senior Center
What You Should Know
The Henry County Senior Center on South Main Street in New Castle is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and for special events outside regular operating hours. You can visit the center to meet friends for fun activities, including bingo, yoga, Wii bowling, board games and cards. A hot lunchtime meal provided by the LifeStream Area Agency on Aging is served at the center’s Senior Cafe weekdays at 11:30 a.m. To sign up for meals or curbside pickup, notice is required at least one business day in advance, and seniors aged 60 and older are encouraged to make a $2.50 donation if they’re able. Meals cost $6.50 for those under 60.
Who Is Eligible?
Residents aged 55 and older who live in New Castle or Henry County are welcome to visit this senior center for recreational activities, educational events and social services. Spouses are also invited to participate.
How to Get Started
Call (765) 521-7414 to learn more about recreational activities, nutritional services and transportation options that are available if you need help traveling to the center.
Interlocal Community Action Program
What You Should Know
The Interlocal Community Action Program sponsors a variety of programs that benefit seniors and families and promote greater economic security and self-sufficiency. In addition to supporting the Henry County Senior Center, it provides affordable housing and sponsors the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Hancock, Henry and Rush Counties. This program offers volunteer opportunities for adults aged 55 and older, with a focus on literacy, housing, nutrition and the environment. The foster grandparent program allows seniors to volunteer several hours a week or full-time through various schools, preschools and nonprofit programs. If you need help creating a will or advance directive or are facing legal issues, free assistance may be available through Indiana Legal Services.
Who Is Eligible?
Programs that provide financial assistance may be subject to income requirements. Services are generally available to individuals who earn up to 100% or 200% of the poverty level. Contact ICAP or the specific program for more details.
How to Get Started
To reach ICAP’s Henry County office, call (765) 529-4403, ext. 120.
Henry County Veteran Service Office
What You Should Know
Your county Veteran Service Office is a vital resource for accessing benefits provided by the local, state or federal government. These programs cover medical care, long-term care and various community-based supports. The VA may pay for homemaker services or home health aides as an alternative to nursing home care or to provide relief to unpaid family caregivers. Many veterans are entitled to property tax breaks, transportation for medical appointments and pension supplements that can help with the cost of hiring a personal care aide.
Who Is Eligible?
Benefits and supportive services are available to veterans, survivors and dependents. Specially trained service officers can determine your eligibility and help you proceed with your application.
How to Get Started
To speak with an officer, call (765) 529-4305. The New Castle service center is open Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. until noon.