Planning care for an older adult.

From aging in place with modifications, to assisted living, to nursing care — each option comes with different levels of support, independence, and cost. A comparison table helps you evaluate what fits.

If the goal is to age in place, you may need help with personal care, household tasks, or medical support. Options range from private caregivers to home health agencies to community programs.

If your older adult lives abroad, different systems and resources apply. A curated set of tools and templates helps you navigate care support internationally.

Getting to appointments, errands, and social activities is essential. If driving is no longer safe, alternatives include ride services, volunteer driver programs, and paratransit.

These documents give directions and assign responsibility for healthcare decisions if someone can’t make them for themselves. Common types include a durable power of attorney for health care, a living will, and a POLST form. Free versions are available by state.

Talking to an older adult about care needs is one of the hardest conversations families face. The right approach depends on your relationship, their personality, and the specific topic — whether it’s driving, living arrangements, or finances.

If you care for a war veteran or their spouse, the VA may offer caregiver peer support, adult day health care, home-based primary care, skilled home care, respite care, and home hospice care. Call the VA Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274.

For estate planning, Medicaid applications, or powers of attorney, an elder law attorney specializes in these issues. The Senate Committee on Aging recommends the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys to find qualified attorneys in your area.

Falls are the leading cause of injury for older adults. One out of five falls causes a serious injury. Fall-prevention classes, home modifications, and assistive devices can significantly reduce risk.

Multiple medications, changing dosages, and interactions between drugs are a common source of preventable harm. Getting organized with a medication management system is one of the highest-impact safety steps.

One in five older Americans report being victims of financial exploitation. Types include pressure-based exploitation, identity theft, and trust abuse by family members. Credit protections and awareness are your first line of defense.

The median annual cost of home care is $77,792 and nursing home care is $111,325. Steps to approach this: review your senior’s assets, determine possible costs, and evaluate coverage options including Medicaid, VA benefits, and long-term care insurance.

A driving assessment provides objective data that can support what’s often a difficult family conversation. If driving is no longer safe, transportation alternatives can maintain independence and social connection.

Untreated hearing loss affects safety, social connection, and cognitive health. A hearing loss quiz can help assess the need and open up a dialogue. Veterans may have hearing aids covered as a benefit.

The most comprehensive source of locally curated social services. Free, available 24/7 by phone, chat, or text. Covers 94.6% of the U.S. Connects you to support groups, housing, caregivers, and more.

The Area Agency on Aging provides free geriatric care consulting including personal care, financial assistance, home repair, legal assistance, and housing options. Open weekdays 9am–8pm EST.

Free consulting from a nonprofit that provides information about support groups, housing options, and caregiver resources. Open 8am–7pm EST.

Federal and state programs including Medicaid, VA benefits, Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP), and Social Security caregiver credits. Eligibility varies.