The Home Care Solution: Home Health Care
It used to be that a medical crisis could spell the end for seniors in their own homes. But today, even older adults who suffer from chronic conditions or life debilitation illnesses can still remain at home. Advances in technology and life-saving equipment have kept many seniors at home.
What’s more, home health care agencies can also provided licensed medical professionals to go to an older adult’s home, offering a wide range of medical and therapeutic services.
Convalescing at home can actually help some seniors not only survive but thrive. For instance, seniors with dementia may be less confused at home where they will more likely know where everything is located.
As is the case with non-medical care, there are signs in a senior that can signal when it’s time to call for help:
When Home Health Care is Needed
- Post-op Rehabilitation
- Skilled Assessments and Teaching
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech Therapy
- Wound Care
- Mobility Training
- Pain Management
- IV therapy/Injections
According to the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA), a home health agency is likely to employ a range of professionals, including physicians, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, physical therapists, social workers, speech language pathologists, occupational therapists and certified aides.
Medicare, as well as private insurance, will pay for some services, such as visits by nurses, and speech and occupational therapists. If a senior is discharged from a hospital, Medicare will pay for a nurse, occupational and speech therapist for the client at home, buy only according to a doctor’s prescribed plan of care.