Long-Term Care Planning

Most seniors would prefer to stay in their own homes as long as possible. Home health care can help that happen. Medicare does provide coverage for short term intermittent skilled care in the home. Medical necessity guidelines must be met and the patient must be certified as homebound for coverage to be approved. Home health can provide nursing care, physical therapy, and speech therapy needed for an acute health need. While patients are receiving skilled care the agency can also provide a home health aide to assist with personal care. Medicare does not cover the cost of "custodial" care - that is care provided to help with dressing, meals, bathing etc. If this is the type of care needed, the patient would have to pay for it themselves.

A caregiver can be hired privately or through an agency. Be sure the caregiver is bonded and does not have access to bank accounts. A family member or responsible person should oversee care to avoid problems.