Home Care Services vs. Senior Assisted Living

Nearly half of everyone over the age of 65 needs some form of assistance in their daily routine. That’s approximately 18 million seniors! When choosing between home care services and senior assisted living, it’s important to consider the costs, qualifications, and available services before making a final decision.

Home care services allow you to get the assistance you need in the comfort of your own home and is great for anyone who is chronically ill, disabled, recovering from surgery, or needing basic assistance. Senior assisted living is an affordable way to get 24/7 care that includes interaction with other residents and eliminates the need of hiring, scheduling, or managing caregivers. This is great for those who have difficulty moving around and require more medical supervision. Both home care and assisted living focus on providing care, but the specifics of what is provided differ.

What Services Does Home Care Provide?

The three major types of home care services are:

Personal Care and Companionship

Personal care and companionship can provide assistance with self-care including bathing, grooming, and dressing. They also help with fall prevention by assisting with movement around the home. Meal preparation, cooking, light housekeeping, laundry, and other errands are included. Plus, this type of care allows you or a loved one to have companionship which can help with isolation issues, especially in the winter. Personal care and companionship can be long or short-term and is great for those who need basic help around the home.

Private Duty Nursing

Private duty nursing can help with basic medical services inside the home. This includes monitoring vital signs and administering medications. Ventilator, tracheostomy, gastrostomy, catheter, and feeding tube care may also be included. Private duty nursing care is typically long-term and is ideal for those who have a chronic illness, injury, or disability.

Home Health Care

Home health care includes several short-term nursing services. This includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, medical social work, and other home health aide services. Home health care is often short-term and is recommended by a physician. Home health care can help patients recover from an injury, illness, or hospital stay.

What is Assisted Living for Seniors and Medicare Eligibles?

Senior assisted living provides 24/7 care, meals, housekeeping, laundry, transportation, recreational activities, and wellness programs. Plus, facilities may offer on-site pharmacies, physical therapy, and even salon services.

Another large benefit of assisted living is social activities and entertainment. Many facilities have common areas including libraries, cafes, and game rooms. Plus, there are several social activities offered like gardening groups, book clubs, and movie nights.

Senior assisted living can help you or a loved one rest easy knowing that all care is personalized to meet any and all health needs.  Emergency first aid, medication management, pharmaceutical services, and maintenance of medical records is often provided to residents. Some facilities have a staff physician who provides routine checkups.

Senior Assisted Living and Home Care Services Costs

It’s important to look at the price tag when making a decision. Home care and assisted living offer different services and their prices reflect that.

What Does Home Care Cost?

The cost of home care services is unique to each situation. According to NPR, the average costs for home care services are:

• Personal Care and Companionship: $70/day or $18,200/ year
• Private Duty Nursing: $19/hour or $19,760/year
• Home Health Care: $21/hour or $21,840/year

There are several companies that provide home care services, but the prices will vary. Plus, there are several other costs that are not included. Keep these in mind when looking at your budget. These costs include groceries, personal hygiene items, household items, transportation, rent or mortgage, utilities, and maintenance.

What is the Average Cost of Senior Assisted Living?

The type of residence, size of the apartment, services included, and location of the community are all factors that can increase the overall cost of senior assisted living. Costs can range from $2,200 to $6,000 per month depending on the cost of living for each state. However, keep in mind these are all-inclusive costs and eliminate the cost of rent, utilities, maintenance, meals, and personal care if you or a loved one lived at home.

Senior Assisted Living and Home Care Services Qualifications

Assisted living and home care each have a specific set of qualifications. Before finalizing on a plan option it’s crucial to know if you qualify.

How Do You Qualify for Home Care?

Within the three types of home care, personal care and companionship is the only type that doesn’t require a prescription. Plus, if Medicare or Medicaid is covering some of the costs, there are different qualifications. To qualify you must meet the “homebound” criteria as established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid and require skilled care on a part-time basis in order to improve or maintain your health issue. If you meet these requirements, Medicare will cover your costs, but only if you receive your care from a Medicare-approved home health agency.

Who Qualifies for Assisted Living Facilities?

Qualification for senior assisted living is largely dependent on the level of care a resident needs. You or a loved one may qualify if assistance with daily living facilities like personal care, hygiene assistance, mobility, meals, and medication management is needed.

Those who require daily nursing services from extensive medical needs may not qualify. The application process is the same regardless if you or a loved one lives in a private residence, rehabilitation center, nursing facility, or a hospital. The typical application process includes facility admission paperwork, medical history, physical, and tuberculosis (TB) test or chest x-ray.

Role of Medicare and Medicaid

Medicare only covers the third type of home care services: home health care. The only cost you may have is 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for durable medical equipment. Medicare typically does not cover the costs of senior assisted living. However, Medicare may cover qualified healthcare costs while living in the facility. This includes doctor visits, lab tests, certain preventive services, physical therapy, and medical supplies.

Medicaid may cover some of the costs of home care services, but the coverage will vary by state. In some cases, Medicaid can be used to pay for some assisted living costs through a Medicaid waiver, but there is often a waiting list.

Making a Decision

Home care services and senior assisted living are two options that could greatly impact you or a loved one’s quality of life. There is an abundance of information available which can make finzaling a decision difficult. Are you a caregiver and looking to help a loved one? Our Ultimate Aging Parents Checklist can help you prepare for what is often a tough decision and discussion.

Medicare and Medicaid may only cover a small amount of the total costs. However, Medicare Advantage plans may provide additional coverage beyond Original Medicare and include benefits like hearing, dental, or vision coverage.

At Medicare Plan Finder, our goal is to make sure you have the coverage and benefits that enable you to live the healthiest lifestyle possible. Plus, we make sure you are informed on important information like the Medicaid look-back period and how Medicare and Medicaid work together. Our licensed agents can help answer any questions you may have about Medicare Advantage, prescription drug coverage, and Medicare supplements. If you’re interested in arranging a no-cost, no-obligation appointment, call us today at 844-431-1832 or fill out this form.

Vitamin D for Seniors and Medicare Eligibles

Vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin,” is essential. It helps absorb calcium, which is necessary for bone health and strength. Over an extended period of time, vitamin D deficiency can result in obesity, diabetes, hypertension, depression, Osteoporosis, and more. Vitamin D for seniors and Medicare eligibles becomes increasingly important with age, so it is important to understand the recommended dosage and the symptoms of deficiency.

Why is Vitamin D Important in the Elderly?

If you are deficient in vitamin D, your body may start to lose bone tissue. This can lead to bone pain, muscle weakness, and even skeletal deformity. Seniors and Medicare eligibles who get the recommended dose of vitamin D every day are more likely to lower their risk of cardiovascular issues, cancers, bone disorders, and diabetes. Plus, it can lower the chance of early nursing home admission, encourage physical independence, and act as a form of fall prevention.

How Much Vitamin D Does a Senior Need?

It can be extremely difficult to get enough vitamin D through diet alone. Sunshine and vitamin D supplements are beneficial alternatives. The recommended dose of vitamin D for seniors age 70+ is, at a minimum, 800 IU* per day. For those less than 70 years old, the adequate intake is, at a minimum, 600 IU per day. Blood tests are a great way to see if you are getting the right amount of vitamin D. However, it’s important to understand that you can have too much vitamin D. An excess can cause vomiting, weakness, and excess urination. Your daily vitamin D intake should never exceed 4,000 IU per day.

*IU stands for international units and is used to measure fat-soluble vitamins. This includes vitamins A, D, and E. You will notice that these vitamins will use “IU” on their labels instead of MG.

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Typical D3 Dosage for Seniors and Medicare Beneficiaries

There are two main forms of vitamin D for seniors and Medicare eligibles – vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). D2 can be found in plant foods like mushrooms and D3 can be found in sunlight and animal foods like salmon or eggs. D2 does not occur naturally in your body, but D3 is produced in the skin when exposed to sunlight. Experts believe that D3 is at least three times more potent than D2 and is more stable, safe, and beneficial to the body.

Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency in Elderly People

Vitamin D Deficiency in elderly people is common due to smaller food intake, less exposure to sunlight, and reduced skin thickness. It’s important to listen to your body so you can take the proper steps to rectify the issue. Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency in elderly people include:

Weak Muscles

In general, adults often feel their muscles get heavier with age. This can actually be linked to a Vitamin D Deficiency. This means that if you have difficulty standing up or climbing the stairs, you may not be getting enough vitamin D.

Common Sicknesses

Vitamin D makes sure your immune system is strong and helps fight off illness-causing viruses and bacteria. If you get sick easily and often, especially with colds or the flu, low vitamin D could be a contributing factor. Plus, researchers have found links between vitamin D deficiency and respiratory infections. Studies have shown that increasing your vitamin D intake can decrease your risk of infection.

Weight Gain

Researchers claim that vitamin D and a hormone called leptin work together to regulate your weight. Leptin works by signaling your brain that you are full and to stop eating. If you are deficient in vitamin D, the leptin signaling process may not function properly. Overeating and weight gain can be an indicator that you need more vitamin D.

Fatigue

There are many reasons you may be feeling tired, but a vitamin D deficiency is often overlooked. There have been several observational studies that show correlations between low vitamin D levels and fatigue. When the vitamin D dosage was increased, the tiredness and fatigue subsided.

Stomach Problems

Since vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, a deficiency can trigger digestive problems like inflammatory bowel disease. Digestion problems can be extremely uncomfortable and negatively impact the fat absorption process.

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Medicare Advantage and Part D Plans

If you think you may have a vitamin D deficiency, visit your doctor before taking corrective action. A blood test is the most accurate way to measure vitamin D in your body. Unfortunately, in most cases, Original Medicare only covers blood tests for at-risk individuals.

Medicare Advantage plans can provide additional coverage for bloodwork. In some cases, MA plans with prescription drug coverage will even include some coverage for over-the-counter medications like vitamin D supplements! Talk to a licensed agent about finding out whether a plan in your area offers these benefits. A great first step is to download our Part D checklist that can help you figure out what prescription coverage you need out of your health care plan.

Our licensed agents can help you understand all of your plan options and enroll you in a plan that fits your needs and budget. If you’re interested in arranging a no-cost, no-obligation appointment, fill out this form or call us at 844-431-1832.

What is the CVS and Aetna deal?

Last year, CVS provided prescriptions to an estimated 94 million customers while Aetna provided coverage to an estimated 22 million. In a $69 million dollar deal, CVS officially purchased Aetna on November 28, 2018. The CVS and Aetna deal will strengthen the two companies, create better care coordination, and improve costs for beneficiaries like you.

CVS and Aetna Merger Status

CVS and Aetna had a long road ahead starting in December of 2017 when CVS first announced its plan to purchase Aetna. In March of 2018, shareholders for both parties approved the merger. In early October, the Justice Department granted approval. Finally, on November 26, 2018, New York was the last state to approve the merger. CVS completed the acquisition of Aetna on November 28, 2018.*

*There has been a delay in the integration of Aetna and CVS. We will update with more information as it becomes available.

Change in CVS Stores

Many CVS stores currently offer healthcare services through their Minute Clinics. The Aetna and CVS deal will allow CVS locations to become a one-stop-shop for all health and wellness needs. This includes clinical and pharmacy services, vision, hearing, etc. Aetna’s CEO, Mark Bertolini, has plans to create healthcare-focused hubs similar to Apple’s Genius Bars. Apple focuses on concierge-style support and CVS plans to follow suit. These hubs will provide basic healthcare products and information. If you have questions or concerns about health conditions, prescription drugs, or coverage, the hub can answer quickly and effectively.

Change in the Healthcare Industry

CVS plans to address several issues that surround the healthcare industry. They want to introduce competitive Medicare Advantage and Part D offerings and create more market access for beneficiaries. They also strive to promote lower-cost care and enhance their clinical care programs.

Both companies agree that the Aetna and CVS deal, with the help of their data, will lower costs and provide better care. When this data is combined with the expected changes to CVS stores, you may be offered new health products at lower prices. The data from the Aetna and CVS deal is also expected to create tech-focused projects like remote monitoring tools. For example, if you have diabetes, you could have your blood glucose levels monitored remotely and receive text messages if your levels are too high or low. This allows patients to have additional medical supervision beyond their average appointment.

How will this deal impact you?

The CVS and Aetna merger is a great example of how Medicare and the healthcare industry can evolve. However, it will take time for these new plans to be implemented and the results are speculative at this time. If you have any questions or concerns about your Medicare coverage, our agents are happy to help! Call us at 844-431-1832 or fill out this form to get in contact with a licensed agent.

Remembering President George H.W. Bush

President George H.W. Bush was a humble and ambitious leader who died on November 30, 2018, at the age of 94. He was responsible for walking the U.S. through important milestones like the Americans with Disabilities Act, Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty, and Operation Just Cause. He will be remembered as a veteran, congressman, vice president, legacy leader, and of course, our 41st president.

President George H.W. Bush’s Top Accomplishments

1941: Joined the U.S. Navy and the fight against the attack on Pearl Harbor.

1948: Graduated from Yale University.

1966: Elected into the House of Representatives.

1971: Appointed as Ambassador to the United Nations by President Nixon.

1976: Appointed as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

1981: Elected as Vice President alongside President Ronald Reagan.

1988: Elected as the 41st president of the United States. Fun fact: President George H.W. Bush was the second president, after Martin van Buren, to be elected while sitting as a vice president.

1989: Sent troops to Panama for Operation Just Cause to oust the dictator of an international drug trade.

1990: Signed the Americans with Disabilities Act into law.

1990: Negotiated a budget deal to reduce the federal deficit.

1991: Signed the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty with Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev.

History and Impacts of Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) signed into law on July 26, 1990, is considered George H.W. Bush’s landmark presidential legislation. The law ensures that individuals with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else and are not discriminated against. This equal opportunity applies to housing accommodations, employment opportunities, public transportation, government services, and telecommunications.

The ADA classifies a disabled person as “a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a person who has a history or record of such an impairment, or a person who is perceived by others as having such an impairment.”

An estimated 55 million Americans are protected by the ADA and are directly impacted by this life-changing law. Many changes brought by the ADA are seen everywhere we look, including the use of wheelchair-accessible transit, braille in public buildings, closed captioning for television and movies, and fire alarms that can be both heard and seen.

Dual-Eligibility and Special Needs Plans

If you are one of the 55 million Americans protected by the ADA, you may qualify for a Special Needs Plan. These plans are a type of Medicare Advantage plan and help cover doctor, hospital, and prescription drug costs. Plus, you may have a special enrollment period which means you can enroll during almost any time of the year! If you have questions regarding your special needs plan eligibility or plan options, a licensed agent may be able to help! Call us today at 844-431-1832 or fill out this form.