Senior Woman In Discussion With Health Visitor At Home:
“Most people want to recuperate from an illness, injury or medical procedure at home. However, in-home recovery may be a challenge – especially as we age. The solution may be an in-home care provider.”
Here are some things to keep in mind as you consider whether to utilize a professional in-home care provider:
You’ll need more than the assistance of an in-home provider for a successful recovery at home. For example, equipment such as grab bars in showers and ramps at the entrance to your home are major pluses. So are options for transportation, including buses and light rail, senior transportation services or taxis. To ensure that you’re properly fed, don’t be afraid to accept help from church members, family and friends.
Help during in-home recovery comes in many forms:
Colleagues, family members, friends and neighbors are often the best source of referrals for in-home care providers. Gather the names of several prospects and compare their costs, payment terms and financial assistance terms, if provided. For professional providers, request each prospect’s credentials, such as licensing and other references. Steer clear of providers that can’t disclose these and other pertinent pieces of information, or provide incomplete or conflicting information.
According to the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, most people buy long-term care insurance so they can receive care in their own home. The need for assistance with bathing, dressing and using the bathroom is used to assess whether someone is eligible to use long-term care insurance benefits. For more information, visit American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance.
Medicare covers certain aspects of in-home care. Generally, Medicare doesn’t cover homemaker or personal care services, like bathing and dressing, provided by a home health aide if that is the only care required. For more information, visit Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services or download their guide, Medicare and Home Health Care.
Options for in-home assistance can vary widely, so be sure to carefully consider the possibilities for the best care.
For more information on senior care, download our free guide, Regaining Your Confidence After a Life-Changing Injury.