Most older Americans prefer to live at home for as long as possible, but finding and affording the necessary help can be challenging. There is a severe shortage of home health aides in many parts of the country, making it costly to hire them. If needed for an extended period, most middle-class people will have to cover the costs of home care on their own. Here’s a guide to finding home care for an older person.
What Kind of Home Care Do You Need?
After a fall or surgery, some older individuals may need short-term care at home from a nurse or therapist to aid in their recovery. Typically, Medicare, the federal insurance program for those 65 and over, pays for this type of home health care. On the other hand, millions of older Americans require assistance over months or years to stay in their homes safely. They may need help with daily tasks such as bathing, transportation, and meal preparation. For this, they would need a home health aide or personal care assistant, who may not have much medical training.
How Do I Find Help?
A wide range of services are available, from light housekeeping to hiring a private-duty nurse. To locate agencies and services in your area, a database of community resources provided jointly by the Alzheimer’s Association and AARP can be a helpful resource. Similarly, AARP also offers a guide to finding a home health aide. Additionally, seeking recommendations from trusted sources such as family, friends, and community organizations can also be beneficial.
Should I Use an Agency?
While Medicare certifies and gives star ratings to home health agencies, businesses that provide home care services are not subject to federal oversight or required to be licensed in every state. A good agency will conduct background checks on its workers, provide training and support, and can find replacements if needed. Choosing an agency involves considerations such as employee vetting processes and required skills, and it may be helpful to invite multiple agencies to conduct an assessment at your home to make an informed decision. Word of mouth recommendations can also be valuable in finding a caregiver.
Will Medicare Cover the Cost of an Aide?
Medicare may cover the cost of an aide as part of a patient’s care plan if the individual also qualifies for a home nurse or therapist for a limited time. However, it’s essential to communicate with the doctor about the necessity of an aide in the care plan presented to the agency to address any potential issues in securing this coverage.
Will Other Insurance Pay for an Aide?
Under Medicaid, the cost of an aide is often covered as an alternative to a nursing home. Private Medicare Advantage plans may offer home care as a supplemental benefit, and long-term care insurance policies may also cover some forms of assistance. Veterans should check with the Veterans Affairs to see if home care is covered. If paying privately, the hourly rates charged by agencies vary widely, and it’s important to understand the costs involved.
How Do I Report a Problem?
If experiencing issues with a licensed agency, reaching out to the government office overseeing it or filing a complaint with state health departments can help address any problems. Additionally, state or local government agencies, nonprofit groups, and resources like the eldercare locator and the Alzheimer’s Association can provide valuable information and support.
What About Respite Care?
Families should also consider utilizing respite care, which may be covered by insurance or supported by local government and community groups to provide some relief for family caregivers. Churches and other community organizations may also offer respite care services.
