Does Mom need medical assistance, or just a little help around the house? Will Medicare cover the care Dad requires? Is there a difference between home care and home health care? If you're just diving into the world of in-home care for the first time, it can seem very overwhelming, and you probably have a hundred questions. Below are some of the types of home care available to help you on your journey.
- Private Duty Home Care: Private duty services are non-medical services that include companionship, housekeeping, transportation, personal care, Alzheimer's and dementia care, respite care, and more. Private duty care is also referred to as private pay care because the services provided are usually paid for directly by the patient or his or her family. Some services may be covered by long-term care insurance, workers' compensation, or armed services funding. An important thing to note, however, is that long-term private duty services are not covered by Medicare.
- Home Health Care: Home health care is skilled nursing care that is usually required in the home for treatment of an illness or injury – wound care, injections, diabetes or blood pressure monitoring, medical equipment assistance, etc. Home health care can also provide physical, respiratory or speech therapy. Some home health services may be covered under Medicare, providing that specific conditions are met.
- Hospice Care: Hospice care is a special type of in-home care, designed to provide comfort and support for patients who are nearing the end of a terminal illness. Hospice provides a range of services including nursing, mental health, and spiritual advising. Coverage for hospice care is typically offered by most private insurance providers and through Medicare.
Need some help figuring out what kind of care your loved one needs? Don't fret, Independence-4-Seniors' staff is ready and waiting to answer your questions and help get your loved one the care he or she needs. If you're looking for care in the Chicago, IL area, contact us today to learn more.