Family. Can your family help? A grand-child might enjoy spending time with you, and be willing to help with minor chores and errands. If family-members—because of distance, work schedules, or other obligations—cannot undertake your care, you have other options.

Hiring a Care-giver. If a little help is all you need, you may want hire a care-giver. Generally, care-givers perform tasks such as grocery shopping, and household chores such as cooking and cleaning.

Going through an Agency. Agency care-givers are typically paid by the hour (ranging from $12 to $22 an hour), depending on your area and the person’s job description and capabilities. Compare several different agencies before you choose one: their prices and the types of personnel they specialize in may differ.

Hiring a Care-giver on Your Own. In many cases, hiring a private care-giver can cost less than using an agency that specializes in placing care-givers. But then you will then need to perform the services a reputable agency performs, such as screening candidates, checking references, and, in some cases, dealing with taxes and benefits. If you choose to find a care-giver on your own—through Craigslist, your local paper or senior center, or (best of all) through word of mouth—make sure a candidate has plenty of experience, discuss your expectations in detail, and verify his or her references carefully.

Hiring an LPN. If you need a bit more help, consider hiring an experienced professional such as a licensed practical nurse (LPN). An LPN can check your blood pressure, and, if you have diabetes, for instance, check your blood sugar levels. They can also help with bathing and exercising.

Insurance. What type of insurance do you have? Some options are covered by insurances such as Medicare and Medicaid.

Getting older does not have to mean giving up your independence. If you want to live at home but cannot care completely for yourself, you have several options.