When it comes to eldercare, New Yorkers older than 65 have many choices. They can live, work, and age in their community. In-home care, assisted living, or home health aides are just some of the options available. The cost of senior living can be high, so it's important that you understand what your monthly costs will be before making a decision.
Home health aides
In New York, home health aides are able to provide more services to help elderly residents stay in their homes. These services can be provided by many different providers. As with all services, it is important that you know what type of service is right to provide for your loved one and whether assistance is available through Medicaid or Medicare.
Home attendants help with a variety of basic needs including meal preparation and grooming. They can also be companions and help to improve dignity. A home health aide can help with housekeeping, as well as running errands. These services can help you or your loved one feel more independent and get the quality care that they need.
Assisted living
New Yorkers have many choices when it comes to assisted-living. There are many programs available for seniors, both through government agencies and non-profit organizations. Many of these programs are free. These programs help New Yorkers age in the community and avoid institutionalization. New York assisted-living facilities will accept Social Security payments.
Medicaid programs are available in the Empire State, and can help people afford assisted living. The State Medicaid Plan provides long-term services for those who are unable to pay their own costs. Medicaid does however not cover independent living arrangements.
In-home care costs
The cost of in-home elderly care in New York depends on the services provided. While medical care can be covered by medical insurance, most plans do not cover companion care. Companion care can include everything, from transportation and grooming to companionship and medication administration. Home health care is more extensive and includes services ranging from physical activity to managing medications and household chores.
Although some people may choose to pay for in-home care themselves, many prefer to avail of financial assistance. Medicare, for instance covers non-medical but not round-the-clock medical care. Medicaid covers home healthcare up to a specified level but not beyond that.
Medicaid
Medicaid for elderly care is a New York program that covers health care for persons who are 65 years or older and are disabled or blind. This program provides a broad range of services including nursing care and assisted-living communities. Those who qualify can receive these services through a Medicaid card. You can apply in a variety of ways, including online, by phone or mail.
Medicaid helps cover a wide variety of medical services, including hospital care, physical therapy, prescription drugs, and social services. It also covers transportation costs to and from medical appointments, as well as personal care aides. In addition, it can pay for mental health and social services. You can apply to the program at your county's social services department.