How expensive is private duty home care?

As of 2010, the average cost for a home health aide is $21 per hour, according to the federal Administration on Aging. Homemaker services, which cost slightly less at $19 per hour, are limited to hands-off, less personal tasks such as errand-running and meal preparation.

Home health and homemaker services are typically charged per visit, which is usually two to four hours long. The Administration on Aging advises that visits from both types of workers cost more during evenings, weekends and holidays. Costs may also vary by location and by the level of care needed. The average cost for one day of adult day care is $67, and one day in a semi-private room in a nursing home averages $205 in 2010.