ELDER CARE AND YOU - "GOOD-TO-KNOW BASICS" FROM VISITING ANGELS

Knowing the options, and knowing who to contact is critical when it comes to making those tough decisions about the care of a family member, loved one or companion who requires some extra assistance to maintain their quality of life.

Is assisted living or a nursing home the only answer? The following are a few frequently asked questions and answers about assisted living alternatives for seniors.

Is professional home care an option ? Consider the following to get the conversation started :

Ø Do they need assistance with walking?

Ø Has their physical and/or emotional health been declining?

Ø Are they able to prepare nutritious daily meals?

Ø Are they able to shop for themselves?

Ø Are they able to manage their bills and financial responsibilities?

Ø Are they taking their medications on time?

Ø Are they still able to drive safely?

Ø Are they in need of companionship?

Ø Are they able to dress and groom themselves?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, professional home care could well be an option for you. So, what do you do next?

Know The Facts when Reviewing and selecting an agency or other home care service provider:

Ø Choose an agency with a local office, employing trained professionals, and 24/7 availability.

Ø Does the agency offer more than basic homemaker services including dressing, bathing and other hygienic activities?

Ø Is the agency bonded, insured and licensed, regardless of whether your state requires licensing?

Ø Has the agency conducted a complete criminal and background check?

Ø Have you been provided with the caregiver’s background and experience? Will they be compatible?

Ø Will the personalities be a good fit? Meet with the caregiver before you agree to services.

Ø Be precise and clear about the services you need. Be comfortable with the service they will provide.

Consult qualified Elder Care Professionals and Know The Basics About covered Services and Fees :

Ø Home care services include but are not limited to social companionship, light housekeeping and laundry, meal preparation, hygiene assistance, bill paying, running errands, and hospice support and care.

Ø Home care services are non-medical, and currently are not covered by Medicare.

Ø Home care services can be paid individually or by long term care insurance.

Ø Various non-profit organizations associated with the illness may offer funding for home care services.

Ø Veterans and their spouses might qualify for the Disability Pension for Aid and Attendance.

Ø Reverse mortgages can offer a viable option.

Visiting Angels has more than 450 locations nationwide, with nine offices located throughout Connecticut. George Germano is the Director of Visiting Angels for Greater New Haven County, serving Woodbridge, Orange, Bethany, Cheshire, Milford, West Haven, New Haven, North Haven, East Haven , Branford, Hamden, Prospect, Ansonia, and Seymour. Working closely with each client, and making every effort to match personalities and compatibility with your loved one, Visiting Angels creates a personalized Individual Care Plan customized to your specific needs. Only then are the most qualified, experienced, and nurturing caregivers introduced to you, allowing you to interview and select the individual that best fits your life style. For more information about all Visiting Angels services, visitwww.VisitingAngels.com. To speak with your local office, call George Germano at 203-298-9700.