As more Americans are caring for their elderly loved ones, they are facing financial strains that are an added burden on top of actual caregiving. According to a recent survey by US News and World Report, 46% of caregivers spend at least $5000 per year on caregiving expenses.


Bills can pile up when you are a caregiver. Help is available.

Fortunately, there are some things that you can do to reduce costs, including:

#1 Get Community Assistance

This will not work in all cases, but for people who live in some areas, you may be able to find some relief by having neighbors or a scout troop help with yard work, or perhaps keep your mother company. Or, they might be available to read to her. Local meal programs or adult day care may also be available at low cost.

#2 Hire Help

You may be able to hire a personal organizer or concierge to run some of your errands. This can free up much of your time and energy for work or dealing with your own life. Also, try to automate tasks, such as grocery delivery and paying bills.

#3 Keep Working


It rarely makes sense to stop working to be a caregiver. You at least need to keep health insurance and your retirement benefits. So, consider hiring someone to help you with caregiving so you can keep working.

#4 Look Into Public Benefits

Your parents if they are veterans may qualify for benefits, or possibly other types of government programs, such as Social Security or Medicare Part D. Medicaid may be available if your loved ones are under the poverty level and are over 65.

#5 Look Into Long Term Care Options


Long term care may be an option, but you should probably consult a lawyer to see if your parents will have to spend down their assets to qualify for assistance.