When you buy a home care franchise, it means more than owning your own business or being your own boss. In addition to these benefits, you’ll be in a unique position to help friends, neighbors, and your community as a whole.

The Role of a Home Care Franchise Today

As we’ve touched on in previous posts, seniors account for a larger portion of the U.S. population than ever before. This has led to an increased demand for affordable care options. Since most seniors today would rather age in place than move into a care home, home care has emerged as one of the most sought-after services.

While this can give you some sense of why home care is desirable, it doesn’t fully explain the demand. After all, adult children have traditionally taken care of their parents at this stage. What has changed to make a home care franchise such a vital resource?

Growing Need for Daily Support

As of 2020, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated that 40% of seniors needed help with activities of daily living. Additionally, the Census Bureau projects that the majority of seniors — roughly 70% — will eventually reach the stage where they require support.

According to a 2020 Profile on Older Americans published by the U.S Department of Health and Human Services this year, seniors made up 16% of the population in 2019, totaling 54.1 million people. That number is projected to increase to 21% by 2040, reaching a new total of 80.8 million.

Additionally, the number of seniors aged 85 and above — who are more likely to require extensive care — is expected to increase to 14.4 million, compared to 6.6. million in 2019.

With these figures in mind, it’s clear that a much larger percentage of the population will require daily care in the coming decades. In many cases, a few hours of assistance a day could mean the difference between aging in place or moving into a care facility.

That brings us to the next major shift in elder care.

New Obstacles to the Family-Based Care Model

Though millions of Americans are acting as family caregivers, many families are facing a serious predicament. Compared to past generations, far more adult children have relocated to other cities and states. By 2006, the average distance between seniors and their closest adult children was approximately 280 miles, according to an AARP survey.

Ultimately, the number of potential family caregivers is shrinking in comparison to the vast number of seniors in need of care. This also means that partners and adult children who have taken on this role face even greater pressure — and a higher risk of burnout.

These overlapping issues have made home care an essential and urgent service for families across the country. Wherever you are, you can be certain that families in your community are feeling this immense strain.

By providing home care, you can promote the safety and well-being of seniors in your community and address a major concern among local families.

Learn About Franchising Opportunities With Visiting Angels

Visiting Angels^® is a well-respected home care franchise that has earned its reputation through more than 20 years of compassionate and cost-effective care.

As the owner of one of our franchise locations, you’ll receive continuous support from our corporate team as you embark on this new stage of your professional life.

To find out more about buying a Visiting Angels home care franchise, call 800-365-4189 today or request the information online today.