Cost of Care Survey

/in , , , , , , /by

Facing the Reality of Long-Term Care Costs in North Carolina

Planning for the future requires a clear understanding of the potential costs you may face. While old surveys from sources like MetLife provided a snapshot years ago, the financial reality of long-term care has changed dramatically. The costs have continued to climb, making proactive planning more essential than ever for protecting your family’s financial security.

The 2025 Cost of Care in North Carolina

Recent industry surveys and data from care providers paint a sobering picture of the current costs in our state. These are not worst-case scenarios; they are the average monthly expenses that families are facing right now:

  • Private Room in a Nursing Home: The statewide average now exceeds $9,000 per month.
  • Assisted Living Facility: The average monthly base rate is more than $5,000 per month.
  • Home Health Aide: The average hourly rate for a professional caregiver is approximately $28 per hour.

The Impact on Your Retirement Savings

These are not just numbers on a page; they represent the single greatest financial risk to your retirement savings. It is a critical and often misunderstood fact that Medicare and standard health insurance do not pay for this type of long-term custodial care. This leaves families to cover these costs out-of-pocket, which can deplete a lifetime of savings in a shockingly short period.

The Solution: A Proactive Plan

The key is to have a plan in place before a crisis hits. An experienced elder law attorney can help you explore all available options to pay for care without spending down your entire nest egg. This comprehensive strategy involves:

These are all critical components of a comprehensive plan to protect your assets and ensure you receive the care you need without impoverishing your spouse or family. Call our office at (919) 256-7000 to schedule a consultation.