In-home Health Care
WHEN HOME HEALTH CARE IS NEEDED
Situations in which home health is prescribed include:
- Following an inpatient hospitalization, rehabilitation, or care at a skilled nursing facility (Goal: help the senior transition back to independence).
- When a senior has had a recent medication change, in order to monitor for side effects and assure a new medication is effective
- When seniors experience an overall decline in functioning
WHO PAYS?
Since it is considered medical care, home health is covered by medical insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.
- Covered by Medicare when prescribed by a physician
- Medicaid for qualified individuals
- Private pay
Home care is provided by caregivers, usually called certified home care aides (CHHA), who are trained to understand senior care. Home care aides can help older adults with activities of daily living (ADL’s). Unlike home health, home care is classified as personal care or companion care and is considered “unskilled” or “non-clinical.”
WHEN TO USE HOME CARE
You might consider hiring a home care aide for older adults who:
- Need assistance with ADL’s ranging from grooming to meals
- When you require transportation
- Live alone, may be at risk for social isolation and need companionship
HOW TO PAY FOR HOME CARE
- Private pay
- Long-term care insurance
- Medicaid for qualified low-income seniors
CORE CHHA SERVICES
Services provided by home care aides may include:
- Preparing Meals
- House cleaning
- Assistance with dressing, grooming and bathing.
- Transportation
- Medication Reminders