Most Florida seniors prefer to age at home and remain independent. But, that’s not always possible due to declining health or dementia. Many families choose to have their loved ones stay at home and age in place; they prefer home care over moving the senior into a facility.
The question of payment usually comes up early in the conversation. Many people are unsure of exactly how home care is paid for: by insurance, Medicare, both, or something else?
This article will take the guesswork out of how the cost of in-home care can be covered. A professional home care agency such as Seaside Home Health Care of Naples has staff members who concentrate on helping clients use all available payment sources.
Let’s look at some of your payment options.
Medicare
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) will pay for a limited amount of home care if it is ordered by a doctor, which is often done because a senior chooses to recover at home versus a hospital. It is generally intended to provide care for a short period of time and is carried out by skilled medical professionals.
If a senior selects a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C), which is offered by private companies, depending on the plan chosen, it may cover non-medical home care aides. However, the home care agency must be part of Medicare’s network.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a federal program for lower-income individuals and families. The state administers it, so each state has different eligibility guidelines. For example, some states only allow an individual to have less than $2,000 of personal assets to qualify for Medicaid, while others have a lower or higher threshold.
Almost every state offers Medicaid-funded home care services to reduce or delay institutional care for the aging population. In addition to payment to professional caregivers for home care services received, family members who perform certain duties are also eligible for Medicaid payment.
Your state Medicaid office can provide more information on programs, benefits, and eligibility.
Private pay
The majority of families pay out-of-pocket for home care services. Funds typically come from:
- Retirement income
- Savings
- Stocks/bonds
- Selling or renting a family home
- Assistance from family and/or friends
VA programs for home care
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helps veterans and their families pay for home care. Services and qualifications are different for each program; it’s recommended that you speak with a social worker in the VA to determine which program would be the most beneficial for your situation.
Long-term care insurance
If you purchased long-term care insurance, there’s a good possibility that you can receive funds for in-home care. Benefits typically begin when help is needed for two activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, or transferring from bed to chair or one chair to another.
Private Health Insurance
Some health insurance policies contain a provision for a limited amount of in-home care.
Seaside Home Health Care of Naples Can Help You Figure Out How to Cover the Cost of In-Home Care
Seaside Home Health Care has helped many families in search of senior care in Naples, Fort Myers, and Charlotte County find their way through the payment maze. Please call us or use our contact form and let us help you explore our services and payment options. We’re here to help!
