The majority of
caregivers would like to keep their loved ones as close to them as
possible. It�s a way to gain better control over their care and
studies show that loved ones often fair better in familiar
surroundings. However, giving care in the home can be a little
overwhelming while trying to keep up with life�s other
responsibilities. Home healthcare may be the answer.
Home healthcare
can provide the whole gamut from healthcare to social services to
patients in familiar, comfortable surroundings�namely the patient�s
home or the home of their caregiver. Not only is care given by a
professional, but the family is educated on a variety of subjects in
order to better equip them to care for their loved one. It helps
give the loved one a greater sense of independence while keeping the
family together. These services are available for all health
problems, all ages, and for as long as an hour or around the clock.
Home healthcare
is not limited to nursing care and physical therapy, but may include
homemaking services such as food shopping and preparation, doing
laundry, and housekeeping. Social services include helping families
cope with the unique set of problems associated with caring for an
elderly or sick person. Other services may include hospicee or
respite care. hospicee services deal with the social, emotional and
physical care of terminally ill patients and their families.
Respite care may include equipment service, home-delivered meals,
and transportation and escort programs.
Home healthcare
is usually a team effort. Licensed practical nurses, home health
aides and registered nurses are the part of the team that travels to
and from the residence to provide healthcare. Specialists like
dieticians, physical therapists or speech therapists may be needed
also. A physician may be involved to outline specific care needs.
Homemakers, chore workers, and volunteers may be employed to deal
with the non-medical care of the loved one and their residence.
As with all
endeavors, knowledge is the most powerful tool with which to be
equipped. There has been some controversy lately concerning
criminals who are licensed home health aides and those working as
aides who are not even licensed. The following questions should be
helpful in making a home health care decision.
These questions
should at least get you started on your quest to find the best and
most affordable home healthcare available. Remember, home
healthcare does not mean that you can�t handle it anymore. It does
mean that you recognize your limitations and you need help. Home
healthcare lets loved ones maintain some independence while allowing
you to have help maintaining your loved one.
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Home HealthCare Checklist |
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Is there a free evaluation visit?
Is this agency certified?
Is it accredited?
What is the agency�s philosophy?
What is the agency�s reputation in the community?
What type of personnel are available?
How are the employees screened?
If you don�t like an employee, can you request a different
one?
Are the employees insured?
What is done if an employee cancels?
Does the agency provide any specialty services?
Can you drive me to an appointment if necessary?
Does the nurse have a written plan of care and does he or
she do follow-up visits?
Will my insurance pay for this?
Will my insurance pay for private duty or long-term nursing?
What is the cost the cost per hour?
If I have no resources, can you refer me to an agency that
can assist me?
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Home Health Resources
Health and Wellness
� Request a Sears Catalog � Toll Free 1-866-326-1750
or
www.searshealthandwellness.com
Your source for quality home health and wellness.
Quality Homecare Products
� 1-866-822-1692
www.qualityhomecareproducts.com
333 Leffingwell, Suite 121
St. Louis, MO 63122
info@qualityhomecareproducts.com
An easy and convenient way to shop for your incontinent supplies.
ElderStore
� Products to Improve Life � 1-888-833-8875
www.elderstore.net
920 Park Lane Court
Alpharetta, GA 30022
admin@elderstore.net
All types of home health products.
Ameds.com Home Healthcare Supplies
� 1-866-802-6337
www.ameds.com
P.O. Box 2488
Duxbury, MA 02331
Over 10,000 home health products to better meet your needs.
DMP Duraline
1-800-654-3376
www.dmponline.com
Bladder control products
AGS Foundation For Health
Eldercare At Home Workbook
1-800-334-1429 Ext. 2529
www.healthinaging.org
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