Should Mom Move to Assisted Living or Stay Home? A Chicago Family’s Guide
Facing this decision for your Edgebrook, Norwood Park, or North Side Chicago loved one? You’re not alone. Here’s what Illinois families need to know:
Reviewed by Rachael Ptaszek, RN, BSN, Agency Supervisor at All Family Health Care in Chicago, IL. Last updated: April 11, 2025.
| Factor | Assisted Living | In-Home Care |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (Chicago Area) | 4,500−4,500−7,000/month | 25−25−35/hour (only pay for needed care) |
| Location | Facility with 20+ residents | Your loved one’s current home |
| Care Type | Standardized assistance | Fully personalized 1:1 support |
| Meals | Communal dining | Home-cooked preferred meals |
| Social Life | Built-in activities | Local senior center outings |
| Best For | Seniors wanting community | Those who cherish independence |
At All Family Health Care, Inc., we help families weigh these options without pressure.
Key Differences That Matter for Chicago Seniors
1. Cost Considerations
- Assisted Living:
- Covers room/board + basic care
- Extra fees for higher care needs
- Not covered by Medicare
- Home Care:
- Pay only for hours needed
- Medicare may cover skilled care
- Medicaid waivers available
Local Insight: Many North Shore families combine both – using home care to delay assisted living moves.
2. Care Personalization
- Assisted Living:
- Staff rotate; less continuity
- Scheduled medication times
- Home Care:
- Same trusted caregivers
- Routines adapt to preferences
Example: Our Edgebrook clients with dementia thrive keeping familiar surroundings.
3. Social Opportunities
- Assisted Living:
- Daily activities (games, crafts)
- Risk of isolation if mobility declines
- Home Care:
- Visits to Norwood Park Senior Center
- Family stays more involved
How to Decide: 3 Key Questions
- “Does my loved one crave community or prefer privacy?”
- “Would transitioning to a facility cause distress?”
- “What level of daily help is truly needed?”
Pro Tip: Try temporary respite care first to test options.
Local Chicago Resources
📍 Free Consultations: Illinois Department on Aging
📍 Assisted Living Compare Tool: Illinois Healthcare Council
📍 Home Care Savings: Illinois Medicaid HCBS Waiver program
🗺️ Need Personalized Advice?
All Family Health Care, Inc.
📍 6413 N Kinzua Ave. Ste 2, Chicago, IL 60646
📞 (773) 775-2588
🌐 allfamilyhealthcare.com<Google Map Embed>
FAQ Section
Q: Can we start with home care then switch to assisted living later?
A: Yes! Many families use home care to delay facility costs 2-5 years.
Q: Does Medicare help with either option?
A: No for assisted living. Yes for home health if skilled care is needed.
Q: How quickly can home care services start?
A: Often within 24-48 hours for private pay.
Q: Do you serve Arlington Heights families?
A: Absolutely! We cover Chicago’s North Side and suburbs.
Take the Next Step Without Pressure
📞 Call (773) 775-2588 today to:
- Get a free care needs assessment
- Compare local facility vs. home care costs
- Learn about hybrid solutions
📍 Serving Edgebrook, Jefferson Park, Norwood Park and surrounding communities
💡 “We helped 83% of local families avoid premature assisted living moves last year.”
Need Home Health Care in Chicago?
If you or a loved one could benefit from professional home health care in Chicago, All Family Health Care is here to help. Our services include skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and more. Contact us at (773) 775-2588 or visit our contact page to request care today.
Category: