6 Things You Need to Learn about Senior Home Care

There are a variety of senior home care agencies, and not all of them focus on the same areas, nor do they all hold to the same standards. If you’re investigating senior home care agencies for yourself or a loved one, you should be as informed as possible while you’re looking for the right agency and the right senior home care services. Continue reading for 6 things you need to learn about senior home care agencies, so you can find the right agency and acquire the correct services for your needs.

Non-Medical Care

Non-medical care agencies do not provide medical assistance. They provide what is considered non-skilled care, such as dressing, bathing, meal preparation, and walking or companionship.

Home Health

Home health agencies are what most people think of when senior home care is discussed. Home health agencies are licensed, typically Medicare certified, and accept third-party billing for medical services. Home health agencies provide nursing assistance by licensed nurses and can assist with medical needs.

Staffing

A staffing or registry agency performs employment services for both skilled and non-skilled works. Registries match the worker to the client, whereas an agency may employ the caregiver directly. Since both skilled and non-skilled workers are available, many of your needs may be met by contacting a single agency.

Private or Independent

Private or independent providers are privately employed directly by the person requiring the services. As a private employer, the client is responsible for payroll taxes, Social Security withholdings, etc.

Assessment

One of the first things that should be conducted is a needs assessment, to help determine what a particular client will require and how frequently and to what degree. This is where a weekly or monthly calendar will be constructed, and the home will be examined for any potential hazards.

Qualifications

One of the first questions people typically ask is what they can qualify for, and the National Council on Aging has a helpful website that helps you find out. If your loved one qualifies for certain services or assistance, that can help you to navigate the rest of the process much more easily.

Not all senior home care agencies are the same, but with the above information, you should be able to find an agency that meets your needs.