What is care management?

The services of a professional coordinator who helps individuals stay at home by addressing all aspects of their lives?medical care, personal care needs, medication monitoring, home safety and socialization. Care managers coordinate with doctors, family members, trust officers, accountants and other members of a client?s community. (to top)

Who is a care manager?

A GCM is a professional, such as a social worker or nurse, who specializes in assisting older people and their families attain the highest quality of life given their circumstances. (to top)

Who uses our services?

Seniors who wish to remain at home in spite of impairments, relatives who are responsible caregivers and live at a distance, professionals such as attorneys, accountants and court appointed guardians. (to top)

What is the difference between a companion or home maker and a home health aide?

A companion or home maker will prepare meals, do light housekeeping and keep the person company. Only a certified home health aide is allowed to provide hands-on care such as bathing and dressing. A certified home health aide has completed a 76-hour training program with supervision; there are no training requirements for a home maker/companion. (to top)

How do I decide on a schedule for home care?

Think about what time of day is most difficult for you and the older adult. Having a set routine as much as possible will benefit the care giver and the client. Make sure your needs are met by the home care schedule, but be flexible; not everyone can receive a shower and breakfast by 9:00 a.m. (to top)

Can the home health aide drive and run errands?

Agencies vary on their policies regarding the home health aide using a car to transport the client or to run errands. Ask the agency when you inquire about services under what circumstance the aide is allowed to drive. Be prepared to reimburse mileage if the aide is using their own car. SCM allows aides to drive clients. (to top)

Am I responsible for providing food for the aide when they are preparing a meal for the client?

This depends on the schedule and the needs of the client. If the home health aide is working eight or more hours a day, then food should be included. Some clients, particularly those whose calorie intake is a problem, benefit from the socialization of sharing a meal with another. (to top)

What should I do if the home health aide requests a change in the terms of employment, such as schedule, time off or pay changes?

If you are using an agency, these issues must be referred to them; remember that the agency is the employer. If you are employing the aide privately, create an employment agreement that stipulates the terms of engagement and make sure you both sign it. Never make compromises that you are uncomfortable with. (to top)

What can I expect from the Registered Nurse?

The nurse is responsible for seeing the client once a case is opened. The nurse will do a health assessment and review all medications; she will also review the care plan. The nurse is required to supervise the care the home health aide delivers. By law the nurse must conduct a home visit every other month, with a phone call on the alternating months. Often agencies will offer additional nursing visits as required for an additional fee. (to top)

Is it appropriate to ask a home heath aide to do house cleaning?

A home health aide will do light housekeeping as it relates to the client. For example, if a bath is given to the client, the aide will clean the tub or clean the kitchen area after preparation of a meal. Home health aides are not house cleaners. To avoid any misunderstanding, it is best to make sure the client understands the difference. (to top)

I am considering privately hiring a companion for my mother. What are my obligations?

Your main taxpaying responsibility will be for Social Security (FICA) and Medicare taxes. This includes withholding the employee's share, as well as matching that amount as the employer. You as the employer will also pay the federal and state unemployment tax. As the employer, you and the employee need to discuss any arrangements regarding state and federal income tax withholding. It is always a good idea to consult with an accountant on these issues. (to top)

Can home care expenses qualify as a medical deduction?

Yes, providing you maintain adequate documentation and pay all of the appropriate taxes either through an agency or on your own. Home care will qualify as an medical expense; once again, consult your accountant for details. (to top)

What are my options if the Home Health Aide and my parent are not compatible?

As in all new relationships there is always an adjustment period. You can ask the agency to help clarify the role of the home health aide with the elder. If problems persist request another home health aide. (to top)

Who pays for services?

Senior Care Management services are billed on an hourly basis. Home care and care management services are priced separately. Fee schedules are available on request. Senior Care Management will coordinate billing for long-term care insurance but does not accept assignment of benefits. (to top)