Ohio's 2024 CareScout medians put home health aide services at roughly $75,504 a year and homemaker services at roughly $73,216 a year -- both above Ohio's $66,000 assisted living median once care needs approach full-time.
Where the crossover happens
At a handful of hours a week, home care is almost always cheaper. As hours climb past the 30-40 hour mark, the math tips the other way, and by the time a parent needs supervision around the clock, a community's flat monthly rate usually beats stacking enough in-home hours to match it.
When home usually wins
Narrow, predictable needs -- medication reminders, help bathing a few days a week, companionship -- paired with a family member who can fill the remaining hours.
When a community usually wins
Near-continuous supervision needs, safety concerns like wandering, or a caregiver who is reaching burnout regardless of the math.
