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Help for the Family Caregiver: Care Services Explained
Care Choice Home Care • October 1, 2018
In-home care may be the solution for families facing the following concerns:
family caregiver needs respite
your loved one’s care needs are increasing
]short terms care assistance is needed following a hospital or rehab facility discharge
additional care is needed for safety and personal needs prior to your loved one being placed into alternative housing
RESPITE
Respite is simply receiving the chance for a family to take a break from providing care and get some much needed rest. Take the time to rejuvenate your mind and body!
Hire a home care agency to provide aides. Agencies vary in how they operate: educate yourself and choose wisely.
Ask family or friends to come into your home if care needs aren’t significant. If no one volunteers, ASK!
Adult Day Health Centers are specially designed to provide nutrition, activities and a safe environment depending on the care requirements of the individual. There is a cost for service but insurance may pay and scholarships are sometimes available.
SUPPORT GROUPS
Support groups are abundant, but you may need to attend more than one to find the best fit for you. Joining others who are going through the same challenges can be educational and a relief for those looking for a shoulder to lean on.
CASE MANAGEMENT
If you can’t be there, who will be??? Care Managers function in addition to the family, assisting with designing a care plan, coordinating physical care and mediating among family members. They act as consultants and can help navigate you through the many twists and turns of providing appropriate care.
IN-HOME CARE
Home care is an option for short or long-term solutions. Non-medical home care is not covered by traditional health insurance, however, Long-Term Care Insurance often does. Some individuals qualify for government programs to help pay for in-home care services.
Below are important questions when researching in-home care agencies.
We recommend a personal interview with agencies you’ve identified to ensure they match your requirements in safety and quality of care.
Is the agency a franchise or privately owned?
What is the primary service area?
Is the agency a licensed home care agency in the State of California?
Is the company licensed, bonded and insured?
Are caregivers employees of the agency? (w2’s or 1099)
Are all employees registered home care aides through the State of California?
What are the hiring practices including how competency in employee skills are evaluated?
What are the rates for service?
Is there a fee for a consultation?
Is a deposit required?
Is there a minimum amount of hours per shift? Minimum amount of days per week?
What is the policy for cancelling shifts or terminating services?
PLACEMENT
When circumstances dictate it is no longer safe or feasible for your loved one to stay in their home, Care Placement may be your best option whether for short-term respite stays or long-term living.
Assisted Living: a residence with apartment-style units providing meals, activities and basic care needs.
Memory Care: stand-alone or a unit within an assisted living community, memory care is designated for those diagnosed with cognitive impairment, providing specialized care and socialization.
Skilled Nursing Facility:provides a full range of assistance such as nursing care, assistance with activities of daily living and skilled therapies such as rehabilitation.