2022 South Central Directory

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h OME C ARE / N ON -M EDICAL

any older adults wish to remain in their own homes where a lifetime of memories brings them familiarity and comfort. As the years progress, family mem- bers may notice that once-simple daily activities have become more challenging for their loved one. Difficulty in consistently main- taining the household or an increasing neglect for one’s own hygiene and personal needs are not uncommon. A little compan- ionship and support may be all that is needed to remedy the situ- ation. The answer could be a non-medical homecare solution. Caregivers providing these ser- vices are available to assist others with daily tasks to help them remain healthy and independent, wherever they call home, for as long as possible. Non-medical homecare agen- cies can provide caregivers who help others with daily living activities. These tasks may include, but are not limited to: light housekeeping, assistance with meal planning and prepara- tion, shopping and errands or companionship and other sup- portive services. Caregivers from homecare agencies can also remind their clients to take their regularly scheduled medications which the family or nurse has set up. In addition, they can super- vise self care, or accompany clients to the grocery store, appointments and other engage- ments. Some companies can also

A good company will assist you in reviewing the different home care options in your com- munity. Most companies will provide an initial meeting (some- times for a fee) with the client and family to learn about their needs and explain the range of services available to them. The client, family and agency then create a plan of care that best meets the individual needs of the client. Depending on the compa- ny, service can be available on a limited, hourly basis or could be provided up to twenty-four hours a day. Allowing a senior to live at home in familiar surroundings is always a plus if it can be done safely and within personal and financial constraints. Non-med- ical homecare services are not generally covered by Medicare or private insurance. however, many Long Term Care insurance plans do pay for these services, as well as select Veterans Administration and State and County benefit programs. It is always good to discuss what funding sources may be available. Careful planning and the right professional assistance will help avoid the stress of crisis situa- tions, and help your senior loved one remain independent at home as long as possible.

provide direct personal care. This extends services to include assistance with bathing, dress- ing, grooming, and incontinence care. Non-medical homecare ser- vices can be provided by a vari- ety of different types of compa- nies. Some companies offer a wide range of medical and non- medical services, while others specialize exclusively in non- medical home care. There are also contract registries who will find a caregiver for you; howev- er, they typically do not assume payroll, tax or insurance respon- sibilities. It is very important to be cautious when inviting someone into the home of a loved one. You should know how caregivers are screened and trained, and if the employer provides insurance and assumes responsibility for payroll and taxes; if they do not, you could be held responsible! A good company will make clear exact- ly where each party’s responsi- bilities lay, so be sure to ask. Inquire how emergencies are handled and if they can provide fill-ins in case of a caregiver’s absence. Ask many questions and request references!

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