Catherine Gianaro,a freelance writer and editor based in Chicago, has written about healthcare and higher education for more than two decades. With 90-plus awards in communications, she is well-versed in storytelling.
As you plan for aging, make sure to budget for potential caregiving needs. You may need help managing complex medical conditions or support for daily activities. Costs for different levels vary widely.
Mark Segal, founder and president of Arciera Home Care in Buffalo Grove, says there are three types of licenses for agencies that provide different types of home care in Illinois: home services, home nursing, and home health. Understanding the different levels of service and costs can help families choose the right support for their needs.
Non-Medical Caregiver
$20-$40 per hour
Assists with daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene
Provides essential companionship and support
Ideal for help with daily routines but not medical attention
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
$20-$40 per hour
Provides a higher level of support than non-medical caregivers, such as checking vital signs or assisting with mobility
Often works under the supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse
Licensed PracticalNurse (LPN)
$40-$60 per hour
Offers medical assistance beyond a CNA, such as wound care, administering medication, and monitoring the person’s overall health
May work under the supervision of a registered nurse
Good option for people who need consistent medical support at home
Registered Nurse (RN)
$70-$90+ per hour
Highly trained and capable of delivering comprehensive medical care at home, including advanced health assessments, specialized treatments, and coordination of healthcare plans
Suitable for people requiring intensive medical monitoring and care, including post-surgical recovery or chronic condition management
Specialist Care Providers
$100+ per hour
Specialist care providers such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, or palliative care nurses
Often works alongside other healthcare workers for holistic support
Best for people who need to recover or maintain quality of life
Originally published in the Winter/Spring 2025 print issue