In-Home Care Options
As you age, one of your greatest fears may be of becoming ill and unable to stay in your own home. Even if you are in good health right now, you should consider how to achieve your medical goals if you become infirm. Planning ahead will help you receive the type of care that you desire, so you need to explore your options now.
Home Care Aides and Home Health Care Aides
A home care aide can help you with housekeeping and personal hygiene tasks when you become moderately impaired. These workers are not certified, but they are qualified to help with these basic chores. They are usually employed by an agency and fall under the supervision of a social worker or medical professional. For many seniors with moderately debilitating health conditions, this type of aide is enough to keep them living at home.
Home Health Aides are quite similar to home care aides, but they receive more training and can recognize changes in your health. They can then consult with your doctor so that you receive the appropriate treatment.
LPNs
Licensed Practical Nurses can also be part of your home health care plan. To be licensed, they must pass the National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurse. They represent a step-up in home medical care that may only be practical for a short period of time due to the cost. You need to research how Medicare and any supplemental health policies that you have will pay for any in-home medical treatment and, in particular, nurses.
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapists are also an important part of many in-home health care plans. If you are recovering from a surgery, a fall, a stroke, or another medical condition, a physical therapist can come to your home and help you regain all or part of your previous range of motion. They can help you learn to use a walker, wheelchair, or cane so that you can keep your independence.
Researching your healthcare options while you are still healthy is the best way to stay in your home for as long as possible as you age. You need to know exactly what your insurance will pay for and make financial provisions for additional expenses. You can also discuss your desire for in-home care with your family. In addition, you should consult with a lawyer so that your wishes are legally recorded. Aging at home requires that you plan ahead and know what your options are.
For more information, contact a company like Assured Healthcare.