The idea of live in companionship or assisted living is attractive to many aging families caring for older loved ones as they provide an alternative to costly nursing homes or assisted living facilities. To find out if live in companion care is the right option for you and your family, be sure to do your research. In this article, discuss how live in companion care works, what they pay, Medicare and Medicaid benefits, and various financial help and payment options available.
Live in companion care means helping a senior remain in her or his own apartment or home while receiving around the clock medical assistance. A live-in aide may come in at times to provide extra assistance during days when the senior in home needs help doing simple tasks or errands. During times when the senior in home is not able to care for himself or herself, a live-in aide can provide personal care such as cleaning and cooking. In most cases, Medicare or Medicaid will pay all or part of the cost of live-in assistance provided by a live-in care aide.
How does this type of care work? Senior in home caregivers provide daily living assistance in a safe and comfortable environment. They take the role of a caring parent, giving the senior in home the gentle touch needed to help him or her maintain independence. A live-in aide provides daily living support in a comfortable and familiar environment.
How do I find an appropriate live-in care aide? Live in companions are available through a variety of sources such as hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living communities (boarding homes, adult day care centers, and skilled nursing home facilities) and the internet. Many live-in care services also offer online resources. When looking for a live-in companion, ask family and friends if they know anyone in order to gain firsthand experience and referrals. Call a local skilled nursing home facility or look for a medical professional in your area who might be willing to make an appointment to see a potential live-in companion.
How will you know the live-in companion is the right person? Ask the client about his or her personality traits, daily living needs, communication style and preferences. If you are hiring a live-in care services companion for immediate assistance, you will want to spend some time in the assessment center so that you can evaluate the candidate’s physical abilities, mental abilities and emotional well being.
What can I expect from a live-in aide? It is important to understand that the live-in companion you hire will assume the primary responsibility for caring for your senior loved one while you are at work. The caregiver will take the senior in and out of bed, bathe, dress, feed and help with other daily living activities. In most situations, the live-in companion will be responsible for helping the senior maintain a minimal level of independence. A live-in aide may also have some of the same duties as a nursing mother (such as giving medications and helping with other medical needs).
If you are seeking financial assistance for assisted living with a caregiver, the first step is to carefully evaluate the cost of full time home care relative to your income. Be prepared to explain your entire situation, including your health care needs, work history, any assets you have and any other conditions you are currently living under. Caregivers will generally need to pay for their own medical insurance as well as other expenses (such as food, gasoline, shopping, etc.) Be prepared to provide all the information the facility requires.
It can be difficult to choose which live-in attendant is best suited for you. It’s not uncommon to experience a variety of emotions, including guilt, fear, envy or resentment. The best way to avoid such feelings is to thoroughly discuss your daily living needs with a live-in care provider during your interview. As a caretaker, your role is very important in providing daily living assistance to your loved one. As part of your transition plan, make sure you discuss financial assistance in an honest and non-judgmental manner.