Best Solution for Elderly and Disabled Care

When older loved ones become unable to care for themselves, the next step, which is a big and tough decision, is deciding who is going to help care for them.  There are many options available, and some are having them living outside of their own home.  Families can resolve this complex and emotionally charged issue in several different ways. Many families find ways to provide their loved ones with assistance so they are able to stay in their own homes. Other families have their loved ones move into a complex where there is moderate to complete care. Sometimes families find that placing their loved one into a care facility is the best solution for all involved.

What is the Best Solution for Elderly and Disabled Care?

If this the chosen option, you will find that this cost can be extremely expensive, not to mention frustrating. Fortunately, there are federal, state, and even local government programs that can help you make ends meet, find, and afford care for your loved one and even obtain respite care for yourself.

Some helpful government resources every caregiver should know about when it comes to elderly and disabled care in Omaha:

Medicare

Medicare has a lot more to it than just Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). If your loved one is 65 or older and collecting Social Security, it is likely that they receive Medicare Part A for free, and their Medicare Part B premiums are automatically deducted from the monthly benefits they receive from the Social Security Administration (SSA).  Prescription drug coverage, Part D, is subsidized by Medicare through payments to private insurance companies. They may qualify for a Medicare Savings Program. Medicare may be able to help pay for Part A and/or B premiums as well as coinsurance, deductibles, and copayments.

Social Security

If your loved one had lower-paying jobs and these benefits are their only source of income, there may be a larger monthly benefit available from the SSA called Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a needs-based program, so applicants must meet certain income and asset requirements to be eligible. If they qualify, Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) would be great benefits, as well.

Administration on Aging (AoA)

The AoA oversees a network of community-based organizations, such as Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs), that offer in-person assistance with accessing programs and services like counseling, et cetera. AAAs are staffed by professionals who are knowledgeable about resources for seniors and caregivers. They can walk you through the specific qualifications and even help prepare the necessary applications and gather supporting documentation.

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

If your loved one is a military veteran (or is/was married to a veteran), they may be entitled to several different benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA offers health care services, pensions, disability compensation, burial benefits, and other services to eligible vets and their qualifying family members. The application form is used by the VA to determine the nature of a veteran’s discharge or separation from active duty in the armed forces, one of the fundamental eligibility requirements for most VA benefits.

The Americans with Disabilities Act National Network

If your loved one has a disability, it may be helpful to learn about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) administered by the U.S. Department of Justice. The ADA prohibits discrimination against disabled individuals in all aspects of public life, such as employment, state and government programs, transportation, public accommodations, telecommunications, and commercial facilities.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Your loved one may take several prescription and over-the-counter medications. As a caregiver, it is important to be aware of what your loved one is taking and why, as well as the side effects and interactions these drugs can have. Consumers can use the MedlinePlus database to search for information on medications, including active ingredients, uses, dosing recommendations, special precautions, side effects and interactions.

Your U.S. Senators & Congressional Representatives

Every senator has a staff specialist on elder affairs, programs and services, who can both advise and advocate for benefits or services for you and your loved one. Most congressmen and congresswomen in the House of Representatives also have staff specialists on elder affairs, programs and services and can provide both information and advocacy services. Reaching out to them or joining a group that supports their efforts is a great way to support your loved ones.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to low-income Americans. Adults may qualify for Medicaid if they are disabled or age 65 or older. Unlike Medicare, Medicaid covers various types of long-term care and home and community-based care services. However, applicants must meet stringent financial requirements to be approved for Medicaid coverage.

Visiting Angles Omaha | Helping Elderly and Disabled with In-Home Care in Omaha

Getting started is easy. Simply get in touch with one of our local home care offices. We can match your loved one with a caregiver who can provide the assistance they need. Respite care is offered on an hourly basis so you can establish the frequency and scope of care that best meets your needs. Because our home care services are flexible, should your loved one require more engaged care in the future, we can expand our role to include:

• companion care
• personal care
• Alzheimer’s
• dementia

At Visiting Angels, we’re here to be your caregiving partner. Find out more about our in-home respite care services by connecting with a local office today.