Family-Provided Care

Relying on family members and other non-professional caregivers to provide assistance can reduce or eliminate the immediate monetary costs of long term care, but it demands a significant investment of time and energy. In addition, many individuals occasionally or regularly require care that only a trained professional can provide. Of course, it is very common to rely on loved ones for help when you most need it. Sometimes financial situations leave few options but this. Regardless, be sure to have open and honest conversations with family members now about your expectations of them. Early discussions will help ease stress and avoid misunderstandings when the time comes that you might need a loved one’s help.

Advantages Disadvantages
Family members and friends generally provide assistance without expecting payment, eliminating many financial concerns. You may require care that your loved one is not trained to provide, such as the care provided by a registered nurse or therapist.
The opportunity to help you may strengthen your relationships with family members or friends. Changing demands and responsibilities can create stress, overburden loved ones, and potentially damage family relationships.
The routine companionship of those closest to you may mitigate the loneliness sometimes experienced by those in need of care. Professional caregiving services will still likely be needed to relieve family members at least occasionally.