Smart ways to cut costs and improve your in-home care experience
Discover practical ways to save money while ensuring quality in-home care with independent support workers.
How to save money while getting the best in-home care
Good home care need not be expensive. Now Australians are turning to independent support workers in a new affordable home care alternative to home agencies. You can make informed choices that help save money and guarantee great care that is tailored to your specific needs.
Here are 10 practical means to get the best bang for the buck with your in-home care services, without skimping on support.
1. Employ independent care providers
Traditional home care providers typically come with high administrative fees that only add to the total home care costs. When you hire an independent support worker, you pay directly for the care in the way you receive, without a middleman.
2. Customise your care plan
Determine your specific needs and design a care plan with them. Make sure not to pay for services you do not need. Make sure the support really helps your day-to-day life.
3. Use government home care funding wisely
If you qualify for a government-subsidised Home Care Package, make sure you get bang for your buck. A lot of people don’t realise that they can use their funding to recruit independent support workers and pay them a better rate than agency carers.
4. Compare rates and negotiate
Independent carers are free to set their own rates, so it’s always wise to shop around. Most of them would be willing to negotiate hourly rates, depending on your requirements and number of hours engaged.
5. Pool resources for shared care
If you live close to someone who has similar needs, consider hiring a support worker to help you both. Splitting a professional for some tasks such as grocery shopping or companionship can reduce costs considerably.
6. Schedule care efficiently
Strategic planning of care visits can help reduce travel costs and optimise support hours. Longer, less frequent visits can sometimes be more economical than a few short visits.
7. Investigate tax benefits and subsidies
See whether you qualify for any tax deductions or credits for in-home care expenses. Now, you can claim certain healthcare costs you pay for out of pocket, lessening your overall burden.
8. Hire locally
Arranging for a support worker who lives close by may minimise some of these transport costs. This is why hiring near you is economical as well as hassle free because most independent workers charge extra if they are to travel elsewhere.
9. Create a trusted network of caregivers
It avoids last-minute fill-ins from expensive agencies if a support worker calls in sick, and it can offer flexibility with pay. A reliable network guarantees continuity of care while maintaining costs predictable.
10. Embrace technology to minimise expenses
Utilise digital resources that will help you with communication, scheduling, and expense tracking. So, online platforms help to connect with the independent carers, making the hiring process much more effective and less expensive.
Final thoughts
You can greatly reduce costs by choosing independent support workers and being strategic about your care, but namely by ensuring that your support is both personalised and of a high standard. Support Network also provides helpful information for choosing independent support workers. For more information about affordable in-home care options, visit us.
