Should nursing homes be the default care option for elderly parents, or should families bear the responsibility at home? I've seen both sides: my grandmother thrived in a facility with 24/7 staff, but my neighbor's dad deteriorated mentally when moved out of his house. The cost of home care here runs $4,500 a month, while a decent nursing home is $6,000—either way it's crippling without savings. I lean toward home if family can manage, but that's not realistic for many working children.