February 2018 - Green Tree Home Care

Families often struggle with when to initiate home care.

Each situation is so unique, and depends on the needs of the client, the day to day support a person already has, resources, and care goals. Adult’s who could benefit from care support sometimes worry they will lose independence, or won’t like having someone in their personal space. Adult children don’t want to force care on their parents, and hesitate to get involved when they aren’t sure care is necessary. While thoughtfulness is an important part of the care planning process, there are times when outside help is very appropriate, and should be a priority.

Falls

When a loved one has a history of falls, and is still at risk of falling, it might be a good time to bring in outside help. Identifying fall triggers like nighttime bathroom trips, or shower times can help families decide when care would be helpful, and might augment a person’s independence. Initiating physical therapy through a doctor is often covered by medicare, and can help regain some strength and stability. In home care professionals can work with client’s to make the home space more maneuverable. Geriatric care managers are often medical professionals that can offer unbiased advice to families making care plans. The often charge for their services, but have resources and experience that can help clients make informed plans.

Retirement from Driving

Changing driving habits can be a good time to initiate outside care support. Making the decision to retire a driver’s license often means some limitations in flexibility and independence. Offering seniors support with transportation is one important function of non-medical home care companies. Changes in transportation style do not mean a person cannot continue participating in activities. Professional caregivers can help support a person’s regular activities and routines, making driving retirement an easier transition.

Changes in Behavior

Cognitive changes can happen slowly over time, or can suddenly become pronounced and pervasive. Sometimes individuals suffering from dementia need help with following routines that involve toileting, eating, and sleeping. Outside professionals can help a client navigate daily activities, and find tasks that are enjoyable and engaging. Even having a caregiver prepare meals a couple of times per week, can help a loved one remain safely at home.

The cost of home care can vary widely depending on regional laws and wages, company policies, and the level of care required by a client. A few factors like how many daily hours, required experience and skill level, and support services offered can impact the final cost of care.

Factors that Influence the Cost of Home Care

Often companies charge a premium for shorter shifts. They may require a minimum of four hours to provide a care professional. Companies often use the additional revenue to entice quality care professionals to accept fewer hours in a day. A willingness to include more daily hours spread over fewer days my help save money in the overall cost by reducing the hourly rate. Shifts requiring overtime also impact the cost of care. Clients can potentially choose to reduce home care rates by splitting 24 hour shifts into eight or twelve hour rotations.

One of the first steps a home care company undertakes is learning about a client’s care needs. It is the company’s job to ensure client needs are met by an experienced care professional. During the discovery process, a home care company will ask about tasks a care professional is expected to fulfill. A client who requires transfers, round the clock toileting, medication reminders, and complete food assistance may be charged a higher rate. That level of care may require a professional with specialized training and experience.

Different Types of Home Care Companies

There are several different types of home care companies providing service. Some act as placement agencies, and offer very little oversight or guidance. They often screen potential care professionals, and may run or offer background-checking services. They range from large data bases, families can comb through, to local domestic referral agencies who meet every care professional in person, and provide matching services for clients. These companies do not shoulder the employment responsibility, or maintain any responsibility for the care professional once services are initiated. The cost of home care is generally a little more than half of traditional agency rates. It is important for clients to understand what taxes or insurances they may be responsible for when comparing rates. Full service agencies may charge from $19-$35 per hour, but should cover all costs of hiring, taxes, scheduling, and insurances.

When to Initiate Home Care