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Texas Elderly Care Guide 2026

The Emotional Journey: A Comprehensive Guide for Families Navigating Senior Care Options in the Lone Star State

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Understanding the "Sandwich Generation" Challenge

If you're reading this, you're likely part of the "sandwich generation" – caring for aging parents while potentially still supporting children or managing your own career. You're not alone.

In Texas, over 3.3 million family caregivers provide unpaid care to adult relatives, contributing an estimated $42 billion in care services annually. The emotional and financial burden is real, but help is available.

3.3M

Family caregivers in Texas

$42B

Value of unpaid care annually

21%

Texans will be 65+ by 2030

Types of Senior Care in Texas

In-Home Care

Best for: Seniors who want to age in place with some assistance

Cost: $20-$35/hour (average $4,500/month for 40 hrs/week)

In-home care allows your loved one to remain in familiar surroundings while receiving help with daily activities like bathing, meal preparation, medication reminders, and companionship. This is often the most affordable option for light to moderate care needs.

Assisted Living

Best for: Seniors needing daily assistance but not skilled nursing

Cost: $3,500-$6,500/month

Assisted living facilities provide housing, meals, social activities, and personal care in a community setting. Residents maintain independence while having access to staff 24/7. Texas has over 2,000 licensed assisted living facilities.

Skilled Nursing (Nursing Homes)

Best for: Seniors requiring medical care and supervision

Cost: $6,000-$9,000/month (private room)

Nursing homes provide 24-hour medical care for seniors with complex health needs, including those recovering from surgery or managing chronic conditions. Medicare may cover short-term rehabilitation stays.

Memory Care

Best for: Seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia

Cost: $5,000-$8,000/month

Specialized memory care units provide secure environments with staff trained in dementia care. Activities are designed to maintain cognitive function and provide meaningful engagement while ensuring safety.

Texas Care by Region

Texas is vast, and care options vary significantly by region. Here's what to expect in the major metropolitan areas:

Houston Metro Area

The largest senior population in Texas with over 800 assisted living facilities. Strong medical infrastructure with the Texas Medical Center. Higher costs than state average but more specialized options.

Dallas-Fort Worth

Growing rapidly with new facilities opening regularly. Good mix of urban and suburban options. Strong network of geriatricians and specialists.

Austin

Higher costs due to housing market but innovative care models including intergenerational communities. Growing tech-enabled care options.

San Antonio

More affordable than other metros with strong military and VA resources. Good options for bilingual care. Large Hispanic senior population well-served.

Facility Visit Checklist

Use this checklist when visiting potential care facilities:

  • How does the facility smell? (Fresh vs. overwhelming cleaning products or odors)
  • Are residents engaged in activities or sitting passively?
  • What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
  • How is staff turnover? Can you meet the person who would care for your loved one?
  • What happens in a medical emergency?
  • Can you visit unannounced?
  • What's included in the base price? What costs extra?
  • How are medication errors handled and reported?
  • What are the visitation policies?
  • Is there outdoor space? Is it accessible?

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Let us help you find the right care solution. Our advisors are Texas-based and understand the unique needs of families in the Lone Star State.

Texas Resources & Helplines

Texas Health & Human Services

Official state resource for Medicaid, SNAP, and care programs.

2-1-1 (dial 2-1-1)

Area Agency on Aging

Local support, meal programs, and caregiver resources.

Eldercare Locator →