Home Care
What It Is
Home care refers to non-medical support services provided in an individual’s home. The goal is to help older adults maintain their independence and stay in a familiar environment for as long as possible. Caregivers assist with daily activities like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and light housekeeping. Home care also provides companionship and supervision, which can be just as important for emotional well-being as physical support. This type of care is typically flexible and can be scheduled for just a few hours a week or up to full-time, depending on the needs of the individual.
This option is the most versatile as it can be used in conjunction with most other care options.
Services Provided
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Help with ADLs (bathing, dressing, grooming, etc.)
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Light housekeeping and laundry
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Meal preparation
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Companionship
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Medication reminders
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Safety supervision and fall prevention
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Dementia/Memory Care
Who It's Ideal For
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Seniors who want to stay at home but need assistance
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Individuals recovering from surgery or illness
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Those with mobility or cognitive challenges who don’t require medical care
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Those who suffer from extended periods of isolation
Payment
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Typically private pay or long-term care insurance
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Medicare does not usually cover non-medical home care
Things To Consider
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Care is only provided during scheduled hours
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Quality of care may vary between agencies
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Family may need to coordinate services and schedules
Signs This Might Be the Right Choice
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Struggling with personal care or housekeeping
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Increased isolation or fall risks
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Caregiver burnout in family members
What To Ask a Provider
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Is your agency licensed, bonded, and insured?
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Can you provide references or reviews from other families?
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What kind of training do your caregivers receive? (Dementia care, fall prevention, CPR, etc.)
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What happens if we’re not satisfied with a caregiver?
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What are your minimum hour requirements per shift or week?
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What are your rates, and how is billing handled? (Hourly, daily, weekly)
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Are there extra fees for nights, weekends, or holidays?
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What if my loved one’s needs change—can you accommodate more intensive care?
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Can you help transition to assisted living or hospice care if needed?
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Consider: Does the person I am speaking with on the phone give me peace of mind?