Seniors who need care and assistance with day-to-day living often state that they do not want to spend their twilight years in a nursing home. For them, hiring an aide to assist them at home can be a viable option.
Deciding whether or not to hire an in-home aide is a big decision. It’s no secret that elder care in general is costly. If you have Medicaid, you may be eligible to have the cost of care covered, depending on your needs. In-home care is part of the Personal Care Services Program offered by Medicaid.
For those who do not qualify for Medicaid, there is state-sponsored assistance through the Expanded In-home Services for the Elderly Program. The state of New York also offers some waivers for in-home care.
Does Medicare cover in-home aides?
Medicare does not usually cover the cost of in-home aides. There are some in-home services that are covered by Medicare, however. These include:
- Visiting nurses, who are trained and licensed to care for things such as wounds, feeding tubes, and other specific issues.
- Physical therapists are available to help you regain strength after surgery or an injury.
- Occupational therapists are available to help you regain the ability to do basic care for yourself, such as showering, dressing or preparing a meal.
- Speech therapists are available to help you with your communication skills. This is especially helpful after a stroke or traumatic brain injury.
People who have both Medicare and Medicaid have a real advantage because Medicaid covers the gaps that Medicare does not. With Medicaid, the average cost for in-home care is $5,339 per month. Compared to the cost of a nursing home in NYC, which is $12,775 per month, in-home care seems like a good option.
Making decisions about in-home care can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s a good idea to seek assistance from someone who understands elder care laws.