Senior Resources Housing 2017-18 Directory

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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 members may notice that once-simple daily activities have become more challenging for their loved one. Difficulty in consistently maintaining the household or an increasing neglect for one’s own hygiene and personal needs are not uncommon. A little companionship and support may be all that is needed to remedy the situation. The answer could be a non-medical homecare solution. Caregivers providing these services 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 agencies 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 preparation, shop- ping and errands or companionship and other supportive services. Caregivers from homecare agencies can also remind their clients to take their regularly scheduled medica- tions which the family or nurse has set up. In addition, they can supervise self care, or accompany clients to the grocery store, appointments and other engage- ments. Some companies can also provide direct personal care. This extends services to include assis- tance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and incontinence care. Non-medical homecare services can be provided by a variety of dif- ferent types of companies. 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; however, they typically do not assume pay- roll, tax or insurance responsibili- ties. It is very important to be cau- tious 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

ate a plan of care that best meets the individual needs of the client. Depending on the company, 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 with- in personal and financial constraints. Non-medical 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 situations, and help your senior loved one remain independent at home as long as possible. Article submitted by Home Instead Senior Care

assumes responsibility for payroll and taxes; if they do not, you could be held responsible! A good compa- ny will make clear exactly where each party’s responsibilities lay, so be sure to ask. Inquire how emer- gencies are handled and if they can provide fill-ins in case of a caregiv- er’s absence. Ask many questions and request references! A good company will assist you in reviewing the different home care options in your community. Most companies will provide an initial meeting (sometimes 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 cre- H OME C ARE / N ON -M EDICAL

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