Navigating senior care decisions can feel overwhelming—especially when understanding the real costs of care. If you’re considering around-the-clock, in-home care for a loved one in Virginia, it’s natural to have plenty of questions. This guide will break down what you can expect to pay for 24/7 care, explain what influences the cost, and show how options like Clara help families find reliable, quality care that fits their needs—and budget.

What Is 24/7 In-Home Care?

24/7 in-home care means a caregiver (or a team rotating in shifts) is present day and night to assist with all daily needs—everything from meal prep, mobility, bathing, and medication reminders to companionship and safety supervision. This is different from other types of care arrangements, like part-time in-home aid, assisted living, or nursing home settings.

You can read more about the different responsibilities a caregiver might perform here.

The Monthly Cost of 24/7 In-Home Care in Virginia

The cost of 24/7 in-home care is based on several factors, but hourly rates are the key driver. In 2025, families in Virginia can expect the following:

• Hourly Rates: Most in-home care in Virginia ranges from $25 to $35 per hour, depending on the level of care needed and caregiver expertise.

• Monthly Calculation for 24/7 Care: Since 24/7 care requires 168 hours per week (24 hours x 7 days), that’s roughly 730 hours per month.

Let's do the math using both the lower and upper ends of Virginia’s hourly rate range:

• Lower end ($25 per hour):

  730 hours x $25 = $18,250 per month

• Upper end ($32 per hour):

  730 hours x $35 = $25,550 per month

So, the typical cost range for 24/7 in-home care in Virginia is between $18,000 and $26,000 per month. Most families will fall toward the middle depending on their location, the specific services required, and the type of caregiver selected (private, independent, or through a facilitator like Clara).

What Does 24/7 In-Home Care Include?

When you invest in 24/7 in-home care, here’s what’s usually included:

• Personal care: Bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, and mobility support.

• Medication reminders: Ensuring prescriptions are taken on time.

• Meal planning and preparation: Nutritious, home-cooked meals tailored to preferences or dietary restrictions.

• Light housekeeping: Laundry, tidying up, and maintaining a safe environment.

• Companionship: Engaging conversation, hobbies, games, and emotional support.

• Safety supervision: Reducing fall risk and responding to emergencies.

• Specialized support: Some caregivers are trained in dementia care or managing chronic conditions.

With Clara, families are matched with skilled, independent caregivers for personalized attention, whether your loved one needs companion care, help with daily routines, or support with more complex health issues. Clara also streamlines scheduling, payroll, and emergency coverage, making the process simple and stress-free.

In-Home Care vs. Other Senior Care Options

It helps to understand how in-home care compares to other popular choices:

While in-home care is the most expensive option, it offers unmatched comfort, continuity, and flexibility—for many, the ability to stay at home is priceless. Assisted living and nursing homes are less costly but may not offer the same degree of personal, one-on-one care or independence.

What Influences the Cost of In-Home Care in Virginia?

Several factors affect what you’ll pay monthly:

• Location: Rates are usually higher in cities like Arlington, Alexandria, and Richmond compared to smaller towns.

• Complexity of Care: Specialized care (like dementia care, medical equipment, or hospice support) can drive up hourly rates.

• Caregiver Type: Independent caregivers sourced through Clara often charge less than traditional agencies and may offer more flexible arrangements. Read more about the differences between agency-based care and independent caregivers here.

• Day vs. Night Shifts: Some families arrange daytime “awake” hours with a caregiver permitted to sleep overnight (with pay adjusted accordingly), slightly lowering total costs.

• Overtime/Holiday Premiums: Expect to pay more on holidays or for emergency on-call care.

Clara provides transparent rates and helps you select caregivers that fit within your budget, ensuring you always understand your costs up front.

Can Insurance or Medicaid Help?

• Medicaid: Virginia Medicaid may offer limited coverage for eligible seniors (often for part-time care or to prevent nursing home placement), but coverage for 24/7 private home care is rare.

• Long-Term Care Insurance: If you have this coverage, check your policy; many plans will pay for some in-home care based on your needs and physician assessments.

• Veterans Programs: Some programs, like VA Aid & Attendance, provide funds for home care for qualifying veterans and spouses.

• Private Pay: Most families cover the bulk of 24/7 in-home care costs out of pocket, sometimes combining family contributions, savings, or the sale of assets.

Clara’s team helps families explore all funding options and can guide you through relevant applications and paperwork.

Tips for Managing the Costs of 24/7 In-Home Care

• Assess needs carefully: Only pay for the hours and types of care you need. If a loved one needs less intensive help overnight, a sleeping shift or on-call arrangement may reduce costs.

• Plan ahead: Many families benefit from speaking with a care facilitator—like Clara—early in their planning process. Clara offers no-pressure consultations to help explore options and budgeting.

• Explore tax breaks: Some medical and home care expenses may be tax-deductible. Consult a professional for specifics.

• Review often: Needs change with time; many start with 24/7 care after a hospitalization, but can scale back once a loved one stabilizes.

Why Families in Virginia Choose Clara

Clara stands out by helping families connect directly with skilled, independent caregivers who fit their loved one’s needs. With Clara, you gain:

• Flexible, cost-effective care options for every situation.

• A trusted facilitator who handles matching, payroll, and emergency coverage.

• Local, compassionate caregivers ready to build meaningful connections.

• Peace of mind knowing that Clara is with you every step

Getting Started with 24/7 In-Home Care

Planning for senior care isn’t easy, but you’re not alone. If you're exploring 24/7 in-home support in Virginia, reach out to Clara today for a personal consultation. We’re here to listen, answer your questions, and help you understand your options—with no obligation. Visit our website or give us a call to start your journey toward safe, joyful aging at home.