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Aging in Place
Eighty-three percent of Americans want to age at home. If the elder becomes frail and requires part-time or full-time support, In Home Care is one option.
There are a number of factors that should be weighed. The functional status of the person being cared for is the most important factor. Can care be provided in the home that will allow the elder to live with a reasonably good quality of life? You should begin by considering the home environment, caregiver selection, and affordability.
Environment
Can the home be made suitable for home care? Is there room in the home? Can the elder be moved about easily? Are there facilities for good hygiene? Will other members of the household be inconvenienced? Is the elder welcome?
Caregiver Selection
The care giver can be a family member, a member of the community, or a professional. Professional/non-medical caregiving will cost in the range of $15 – $30 per hour. The caregiver be able to perform the following functions:
- Follow the physician’s plan of care.
- Monitor nutrition.
- Monitor medication.
- Incorporate physical exercise into daily regimen.
- Provide opportunities for socialization.
The most successful caregivers have time, live close by, have an emotional relationship with the elder, sustain a positive attitude, and are motivated. Never overlook payment as one of the many forms of motivation. Caregivers should be compensated in some form that is agreeable to all parties.
Long-term Financial Planning
Is In Home Care affordable? Most people expect Medicare to cover In Home Care or long-term care. It does not. Medicare is only for acute care, such as a limited hospital stay after surgery.
Personal eldercare is considered custodial care and is only covered by some long-term care insurance. Most people do not carry long-term care policies. How will you pay the caregiver? How will you pay for the other needs of the elder?
You should look carefully at your financial options. Financial issues can become the most stressful aspect of In Home Care.
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