When a loved one has suffered a stroke, finding the right support at home becomes a top priority. In-home care allows stroke survivors to recover in familiar surroundings, maintain independence, and receive the personalized attention they need. But for families in California, the question on everyone’s mind is: What does in-home care actually cost?

Let’s break down the latest numbers, what influences those costs, and how Clara can help you find the right care at a price that fits your family’s needs.

The Unique Needs of Stroke Patients at Home

Stroke recovery is a journey that often requires more than just medical attention. Many stroke survivors need:

• Help with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and eating

• Medication reminders and monitoring for complications

• Physical, occupational, or speech therapy

• Mobility assistance and transfers

• Transportation to medical appointments

The level of care required can range from just a few hours a week to round-the-clock support, depending on the severity of the stroke and the individual’s progress.

In-Home Care Costs in California: The Latest Data

According to the most recent 2024 data from CareScout, the median monthly cost for in-home care in San Francisco is $8,008 for homemaker/home health aide services. These figures reflect the cost for a full month of care, typically based on 44 hours per week, and are among the highest in the country due to San Francisco’s elevated cost of living.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Homemaker services provide help with household tasks, meal preparation, and companionship.

• Home health aides offer hands-on personal care, such as bathing, dressing, and mobility assistance, but not medical care.

For stroke patients, home health aide services are often necessary, as they provide the hands-on support required for recovery and daily functioning. You can read more about the different responsibilities a caregiver might perform here.

Hourly and Annual Costs

If you prefer to think in hourly terms, the median hourly rate in San Francisco in 2024 was $42 per hour. This means:

• Part-time care (20 hours/week): About $3,600 per month

• Full-time care (44 hours/week): About $8,000 per month, or roughly $96,000 per year

These rates are medians; costs can be higher for specialized care, such as for stroke survivors with complex needs.

What Influences the Cost of In-Home Care?

Several factors can affect what you’ll actually pay for in-home care in California:

• Type of Care Needed: More specialized or medical care (such as from a home health aide) costs more than basic companion or homemaker services.

• Hours of Care Required: The more hours you need, the higher your monthly costs.

• Caregiver Experience: Caregivers with experience in post-stroke care or advanced certifications may command higher rates.

• Additional Services: Services like transportation, meal preparation, or therapy coordination can add to the total cost.

• Local Demand: San Francisco’s high demand for caregivers and its cost of living mean rates are higher than in other California regions.

How In-Home Care Compares to Other Options

It’s helpful to see how in-home care stacks up against other long-term care choices in California:

While in-home care is a significant investment, it’s still less expensive than nursing home care-and it allows your loved one to remain in the comfort of their own home. (Read more on the importance of aging in place here).

How Clara Makes In-Home Stroke Care More Affordable

Clara is committed to making high-quality in-home care accessible and affordable for families. Here’s how Clara stands out:

• Lower Hourly Rates: Clara’s average cost of care is below $35 per hour, with some caregivers available for as low as $25 per hour-well below median rates.

• Personalized Caregiver Matching: Clara connects you with vetted, background-checked caregivers who have experience supporting stroke survivors.

• Simple, Transparent Pricing: Clara handles all payroll, taxes, and insurance, so you don’t have to worry about hidden costs or legal headaches.

• Flexible Scheduling: Whether you need a few hours a week or full-time support, Clara can help you find the right fit-often within 24 hours.

• Support 7 Days a Week: Clara’s Care Advisors are available every day to answer your questions and provide guidance as your loved one’s needs change.

Tips for Managing the Cost of In-Home Stroke Care

Navigating the financial side of stroke recovery can be overwhelming. Here are some practical tips to help:

• Assess Actual Needs: Work with your loved one’s healthcare team to determine how many hours and what type of care are truly necessary.

• Explore Insurance and Benefits: Long-term care insurance, Veterans benefits, and some Medicaid waivers may help cover costs. While Clara does not support Medicaid payments, we do work with long-term care insurers.

• Budget for Extras: Remember to account for supplies, equipment, and transportation, which may not be included in the hourly rate.

• Ask About Sliding Scales or Payment Plans: Some facilitators may offer flexible payment arrangements or help you find ways to save.

Why Families Choose In-Home Care After a Stroke

In-home care offers stroke survivors the chance to recover in a familiar, supportive environment. Benefits include:

• Personalized, one-on-one attention

• The ability to maintain routines and independence

• Support for both physical and emotional recovery

• Family involvement in the care process

Clara’s approach ensures that families can access this level of care without breaking the bank. You can learn more about private caregivers here.

Conclusion: Take the Next Step with Clara

Understanding the cost of in-home care for stroke patients in California is the first step toward making an informed, compassionate choice for your loved one. With median monthly costs of over $8,000 for full-time care (if you don’t hire with Clara), it’s crucial to find a solution that balances quality, affordability, and peace of mind.

Clara is here to help you every step of the way-from finding the right caregiver to managing payroll and insurance, all at rates that are often 20–40% lower than traditional options. If you’re ready to explore your options or have questions about in-home stroke care in California, reach out to Clara today. Our Care Advisors are available seven days a week to support you and your family.

Contact Clara to learn how we can help you provide the best care for your loved one-at a price that fits your family’s needs.