Senior Resources Southeast WI Directory

H OME C ARE /N ON -M EDICAL

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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 create a plan of care that best meets the individual needs of the client. Depending on the company, ser vice can be available on a limited, hourly basis or could be provid ed 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. Home Helper service is generally not covered by Medicare or Medicaid, or by private insur ance. However, several 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 plan ning 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.

any older adults wish to remain in their own homes where a lifetime of memories brings them familiarity and com fort. As the years progress, fami ly 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 companion ship and support may be all that is needed to remedy the situa tion. The answer could be a Home Helper/Companion ser vice. Individuals providing these services are available to assist others with daily tasks to help them remain healthy and inde pendent, wherever they call home, for as long as possible. Home Helper/Companions are 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, shopping and errands or companionship and other supportive services. Homemaker/Companions can also remind the individual to take their regularly scheduled medica tions which the family or nurse has set up. In addition, they can supervise self care, or accompa

ny clients to the grocery store, appointments and other engagements. Some companies can provide direct personal care. This extends services to include assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and incon tinence care. Home Helper/Companion services can be provided by a variety of different types of companies. Some companies offer a wide range of medical and non-medical services, while others specialize exclu sively in non-medical home care. There are also contract registries who will find a care giver for you; however, they typically do not assume payroll, tax or insurance responsibili ties. It is very important to be cautious when inviting some one into one’s home. You should know how caregivers are screened and trained, and if the employer provides insur ance and assumes responsibili ty for payroll and taxes. 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! A good company will assist you in

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