In this guide 5 sections
When an older adult comes home from the hospital, meals, rides and help at home can quickly become too much for one family caregiver. The best first call is the Eldercare Locator, which connects older adults and families to local aging services. Medicare home health may cover limited skilled care at home, but it does not cover delivered meals or ongoing personal care when that is the only help needed.
Where should you start?
- 1.Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116. Ask what local aging services are available after discharge.
- 2.Search for a nearby Meals on Wheels provider by ZIP code. Ask about eligibility, cost, waitlists and whether transportation or other local services are offered.
- 3.Ask his doctor or other health care provider whether he meets the requirements for Medicare home health. A provider must examine him, order the care and refer him to a Medicare certified home health agency.
- 4.Contact the state Medicaid office and ask whether he may qualify for home and community based services.
What meal help may be available?
The Senior Nutrition Program supports community meals and meals delivered to the home through local organizations. Local services generally serve adults age 60 and older, although each provider sets its own eligibility and availability rules. Meals may be free, offered for a suggested contribution or charged on a sliding scale.
What can Medicare cover at home?
Medicare can cover medically necessary, part time skilled nursing, therapy, medical social services and some home health aide care for eligible people who are homebound. Home health aide care is covered only while the person is also receiving qualifying skilled care. Medicare does not pay for meal delivery, round the clock home care or personal care when personal care is the only service needed.
Could Medicaid help with longer term support?
State Medicaid home and community based services can help eligible older adults receive long term services and supports at home or in the community instead of an institution. Ask the state Medicaid office what is available and how to apply.
What can help the family caregiver?
Ask local aging services what caregiver help is available. The Eldercare Locator can identify the local agency by phone, text or online search.
Questions families ask
Does Medicare pay for Meals on Wheels?
Medicare does not cover home meal delivery. Local senior nutrition programs may provide meals delivered to the home or meals in community settings. Eligibility, availability and cost vary locally.
Can Medicare provide an aide after discharge?
Medicare may cover part time home health aide care if he is homebound, needs qualifying skilled services and receives both types of care at the same time. Medicare does not cover personal care when that is the only help he needs.
What if the local meal provider has a waitlist?
Ask the provider about other nearby programs, community dining and referral options. If no provider is available, contact the Eldercare Locator or the State Unit on Aging for alternatives.
Can Medicaid pay for help at home?
State Medicaid home and community based services may support eligible older adults at home or in the community. Ask the state Medicaid office about eligibility, available services and the application process.
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