If you are considering the different options for the care of you or an elderly loved one, you might find that there are a few choices to consider. At one-time nursing homes were the only available options; however, now, senior care comes in several forms, including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and in-home care.
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes or facilities that offer rehabilitation care may be best suited, even recommended by doctors for people who have recently had an operation or require ongoing medical assistance. Additional reasons for admission into a skilled nursing home facility, include:
- Wound care
- The need for IV administration
- Physiotherapy
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Nutrition management
On the other hand, if an elderly person does not necessarily require skilled medical care, but is considered to be frail, a nursing home may be ideal. These facilities can help with the following:
- Getting the elderly person in and out of bed
- Bathing and grooming
- Dressing
- Eating
- Cleaning
There are various types of nursing homes. For example, some offer a high level of medical care, while others provide a type of intermediate care and supervision. Costs of a nursing home facility vary greatly; however, an average monthly fee is $5000 – $9000 or more. In general, this includes the cost of meals and housing, but may not include medications. Medicare may cover all or some of this care, but it is not uncommon for only 100 days in a year to be covered by Medicare or private health insurance.
Assisted Living Facilities
Assisted living facilities are not the same as nursing homes. Rather, they offer the opportunity for elders to live within a facility that offers companionship and structure. These places are a good option for people who no longer wish to live at their homes or are not safe living on their own. Assisted living facilities may offer meals, medication assistance, housekeeping, and other services. The level of care will vary and may be provided to the resident as different options. In general, Medicaid does not cover assisted living facilities. The average monthly cost is $3500.
In-Home Medical Care
There are several forms of in-home medical care and in-home care. For people who don’t require special medical attention, would like to retain their independence, but be provided with assistance for certain tasks, in-home care may be ideal. In-home care can help elders with:
- Getting in and out of bed
- Moving around the home
- Housekeeping
- Transportation
- Bill paying
- Correspondance communication
- Dressing and bathing
- Toileting needs
- Medication
Emotional support and companionship is also provided to the elderly person. In the event of an elder needing medical attention, you should consult the in-home care company to see whether or not they provide this. The cost of in-home care widely caries and may be charged on an hourly rate, a number of days, or shifts. Medicare may cover some in-home care, but this will be dependent on the situation. Tax breaks may also be available. For more information contact a nursing home lawyer, like a nursing home lawyer in Memphis TN.
Thank you to Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC for their information on nursing homes vs in-home care.
