Honoring Our Caregivers on National Caregivers Day

Dear Caregivers,

Today, on National Caregivers Day, we pause to express our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who tirelessly dedicate your time, energy, and love to caring for your loved ones. Whether you’re a family member, a friend, or a professional caregiver, your selfless commitment to providing care makes a profound difference in the lives of those you support.

Did you know that caregiving is more prevalent than ever before? With an aging population and increasing instances of chronic illnesses, the demand for caregivers has skyrocketed. In fact, statistics show that nearly 53 million Americans are providing unpaid care to an adult or child with special needs. This staggering number highlights the crucial role caregivers play in our society.

In Pennsylvania, caregiving holds a special significance within the fabric of communities. Our state’s rich history and diverse population foster an environment where caregiving flourishes. From Philadelphia to Harrisburg to Allentown, caregivers in Pennsylvania come from all walks of life, united by their dedication to providing compassionate care to those in need.

At AmeriBest Home Care, we also understand the sacrifices that come with caregiving. We recognize the physical, emotional, and financial toll it can take on individuals and families. That’s why we’re here to offer support every step of the way. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive home care services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client and their caregiver.

We know the importance of financial stability, especially for those who have chosen caregiving as a profession. That’s why we offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth and development. We believe that caregivers deserve to be valued and rewarded for their hard work and dedication, and we’re happy to stand by your side in doing so.

On this special day and every day, we want to extend our deepest thanks to all caregivers for the hard work you do. Your compassion, patience, and resilience inspire us every day. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. AmeriBest Home Care is here to support you. Call 1800-HOMECARE with any questions!

Thank you for all that you do.

Sincerely,

AmeriBest Home Care

How to Find a Reliable Caregiver Home Health Aide in Harrisburg, PA

caregiver home health aide harrisburg pa

As a family caregiver, you know how difficult it is to be present everywhere and take care of everything. You need a break, so you start searching for an agency to provide home health care services to your loved one in need. But if you are new to the home care industry, you may not know what to look for in caregivers and the agencies that employ them. This article will review how to find a reliable caregiver home health aide in Harrisburg, PA!

What to Look for in Home Health Care Services in Harrisburg, PA

Caregiver Screening

Choose an agency that screens its caregivers to ensure they have clean background checks.

Continuous Training

Many agencies require their caregivers to have specific training under their belt before they hire them. Some may even require their caregivers to become certified. The agency you choose should provide a staff of highly skilled workers and sufficient support.

Online Reviews

Online reviews will give you an idea of what to expect when you work with the agency. Pick an agency with mostly good reviews and expertise in the services you require.

Works with State Programs

Pennsylvania offers several programs that allow seniors to receive free or low-cost healthcare, hire a home care agency that works with the state various insurance companies.

Accepts All Insurances

If you plan to pay for home care with insurance, naturally you need to find a home health care provider near me that accepts your plan.

Caring and Compassionate

Care and compassion are essential in the home care industry. Work with an agency that focuses on care and compassion in the services they provide and fosters a positive, nurturing work environment.

Years in Business

Choose an agency that has plenty of years of experience under its belt. An experienced provider will have a built reputation for serving their community, they will know how to handle any challenges in the care spectrum as none of them are new!

Opportunities to Get Paid to Care for Loved Ones

Many agencies offer training so you can get paid to care for your loved ones. The training reduces the financial burden of elder care as it opens doors for new career opportunities!

Customized Care

The agency should provide customized care suited to your loved one’s needs, and work with your schedule to ensure your relative gets the care they need when they need it. Still looking for a caregiver/home health aide in Harrisburg, PA?

AmeriBest is a Top-Rated, Reliable Provider of Home Care Services in Harrisburg, PA

AmeriBest offers reliable in-home care to Harrisburg families in need. We screen our caregivers carefully. Our well-trained team members are caring and compassionate. And our customer reviews speak for themselves!

We work with Community Health Care Choice to keep costs low. We also accept several types of insurance. Families can relieve their financial burden by training to care for their loved ones through our comprehensive program.

Contact us to find the reliable care your loved one deserves.

How to Financially Plan for Home Care Assistance in Harrisburg, PA

home care assistance harrisburg pa

Families must plan carefully to maintain a high quality of life for loved ones as they age. Elder care is expensive. Fortunately, some programs offer benefits for home care assistance in Harrisburg, PA.

One program to consider is Medical Assistance and Payment of Long-Term Care Services. The program is available through Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services. This article will explain how to see if you qualify.

What is Medical Assistance and Payment of Long-Term Care Services?

Long Term Care (LTC) services cover home, community-based, and nursing home services. You can apply for LTC and Medicaid Assistance online through the COMPASS website. Or you can mail or give your application to your local county assistance office. The program provides home heating assistance, long-term living services, health care coverage, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and services for children.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for LTC, you must:

  • Have a doctor’s form confirming you require long-term medical services
  • Be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen
  • Be a Pennsylvania resident
  • Have a social security number

The eligibility requirements are as follows:

  • The limit for non-money payment (NMP) is 300 percent of the federal benefit rate (FBR) which changes annually.
  • The limit for medically needy only (MNO) is $2500 for semi-annual net income.
  • If your income is more than 300 percent of the FBR limit, you can deduct the cost of 6 months of long-term care to reduce your monthly income

Resource limits for one person are as follows:

  • The resource limit is $2000 with an additional $6000 resource disregard for people with income at or below 300 percent of the FBR
  • The resource limit is $2400 for people with an income above 300 percent of the FBR
  • You may also pay for LTC with your funds and eventually reduce your resources to the Medicaid LTC limits

Get Paid for Caregiving with Home Care Assistance in Harrisburg, PA

Training to become a home aide will also help you afford home health aide services. Harrisburg, PA residents may enroll in a training program with their chosen home care agency. They will get paid to care for their loved ones when they require additional care, as determined by their health care provider. It makes care more affordable and reduces caregiver’s financial losses incurred when they must take off work to care for their loved ones.

AmeriBest offers training for people who wish to get paid to care for their loved ones. We offer competitive pay, impressive benefits, and consistent hours, including holiday and overtime pay. Our caregivers train and work in a supportive environment. You may continue your education through our program to advance your career.

Affording at-home care can be challenging. Check out state programs to learn more about benefit eligibility for home care assistance in Harrisburg, PA. Contact AmeriBest to familiarize yourself with our caregiving options.

We will help you find the solutions best suited to your family situation.

How to Get Paid to Take Care of Your Loved One in Harrisburg, PA

Get Paid to Take Care of Your Loved Ones Harrisburg PA

Our loved ones often need extra care as they get older. When health issues interfere with their ability to perform everyday tasks, a paid caregiver may be necessary. Unfortunately, too many families are unable to afford caregivers! Some choose to provide care themselves. The added responsibility becomes stressful as many must take time off work to care for their loved ones, not to mention how time-consuming caregiving can be. Caregivers are often the “sandwich generation”, caring for both kids and parents (in-laws, grandparents, fill in the blank…) Now listen up because AmeriBest presents a solution – get paid to take care of your loved ones in Harrisburg, PA!

How to Get Paid to Take Care of Your Family Member in Harrisburg, PA

Family members can take care of their family members with no experience necessary. Here’s what our program has to offer:

  • Competitive Pay: Caregivers receive competitive pay rates. Employees can count on getting paid on time. Workers who need money sooner can use our DailyPay option.
  • Great Benefits: We provide fantastic healthcare benefits, paid time off, paid holidays, a $500 sign-on bonus, and more.
  • Consistent Hours: Workers can look forward to consistent, flexible hours.
  • A Team-Oriented Environment: Caregivers train in a collaborative, team-oriented environment. Our support staff will oversee your needs so you can focus on your client. We emphasize pride and camaraderie.
  • Top-Tier Training: Aides train in our state-of-the-art facility.
  • Grow Your Career: We offer ongoing training and additional education so you can expand your career beyond caregiving when you’re ready! We take pride in training and promoting our employees.

What are the Benefits of Caring for Your Elderly Relative Yourself?

Here are some additional benefits you will find when you get paid to take care of your loved one in Harrisburg, PA.

  • A safe environment for your loved one: It’s sad but true: neglect and abuse commonly occur in the adult care industry. When you care for your loved one yourself, you know they are in good hands.
    (Please note: all AmeriBest caregivers are screened and trained)
  • A bonding experience: Caregivers will form a bond with their loved ones. They will make memories that they treasure forever.
  • A better financial outlook: Individuals who care for their loved ones will not incur caregiver costs. They will make income that benefits their financial situation.
  • Job Opportunities: If you discover you enjoy caregiving, you can make it into a career. Expand your expertise with our ongoing training and consider taking on additional clients, to begin.

AmeriBest Offers Opportunities to Get Paid to Take Care of Your Family Member in Harrisburg PA

Gain rewarding experiences and put your financial woes behind you. Our training will teach you everything you need to know. We will ensure your loved one receives top-notch care. So contact us today!

We can also help families who prefer care from an outside provider. We offer various non-medical services. Our caring team can assist with light housekeeping, medication reminders, transportation, companionship, self-care, and more.

Winter Wellness: Ensuring Proper Senior Care in Harrisburg, PA

senior care harrisburg pa

Winter can be especially tough on seniors. Older adults are prone to cold weather illnesses like colds and flu. They are also at high risk for slip and fall accidents. You can keep your loved one safer with the proper senior care in Harrisburg, PA. Our professional caregivers will ensure your aging relative stays healthy in the cold winter months. Here are some things to be aware of.

Get Vaccinated

Older adults tend to have weakened immune systems. They are prone to colds and flu. These conditions can lead to pneumonia and other complications. Seniors will reduce flu risk by getting vaccinated.

Consider getting your loved one the COVID-19 vaccine while they get their flu shots.

Exercise Indoors

It’s not wise to take seniors out on extremely cold days. But they should still get a fair amount of physical activity. Fortunately, there are several indoor senior-friendly workouts. They include:

  • Yoga: Simple yoga positions can be done indoors. People with limited mobility may consider chair yoga.
  • Stretching: Stretching is essential for seniors because it relieves achiness and makes the body more flexible.
  • Weightlifting: Weightlifting helps seniors maintain muscle mass. Bicep curls and other basic exercises can be performed in an indoor space.

Sunshine Exposure is Essential

Many older adults stay indoors during the winter. But the vitamin D in sunshine is essential in boosting the immune system. Ensure your loved one gets the proper amount of vitamin D by taking them outdoors for a few minutes daily. You can also sit them inside in a sunny room for at least 30 minutes.

Encourage Socialization

Seniors don’t go out as much during the winter. But they must stay in touch with friends. Socialization will reduce depression and anxiety many seniors suffer due to isolation and failing health.

Teach your loved one to use social media and video conferencing so they can contact their friends during the winter.

Wear Layers Indoors

Older adults are prone to hypothermia. The condition may occur if their body temperature falls below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Hypothermia can even happen indoors. Provide seniors with layers of clothing so they stay warm. Doing so will also bolster their immune system.

Clear Walkways

The cold weather presents slipping hazards. Storms bring snow, ice, and slippery leaves. Seniors are prone to falling due to balance issues caused by the loss of muscle mass, medications, and other factors.

Reduce slipping hazards by ensuring walkways are clear of snow, ice, and slippery leaves.

AmeriBest is The Top Provider of Senior Care in Harrisburg, PA

Keep your senior healthy during the winter by choosing the proper senior care in Harrisburg, PA. AmeriBest offers various non-medical home care options. We provide meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication reminders, transportation assistance, and much more.

We also ease the financial burden of hiring a caregiver by providing opportunities to get paid for taking care of a family member. Those who apply are eligible for competitive pay, benefits, and ongoing training. We can help you grow your career. Contact us to find out about our home care services in Harrisburg, PA.

Taking Charge of Your Health: Empowerment in American Diabetes Month

senior care harrisburg pa

Diabetes is a disease that negatively affects the quality of life. November is National Diabetes Month. It’s a time to think about what you can do to promote a healthy lifestyle. With senior care in Harrisburg PA, local residents can decrease their diabetes risk by knowing the signs, risk factors, and properly monitoring their health at home.

What is Diabetes?

There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. It causes a deficiency of insulin. As a result, glucose cannot enter the cells and provide a person with the energy they require.

In type 1 diabetes, the body doesn’t produce enough insulin. For type 2 diabetes, the body produces insulin but cannot use it effectively. In time, the insulin demand will be greater than the pancreas’s ability to create insulin. It will result in an insulin deficiency.

How to Honor American Diabetes Month

American Diabetes Month is a great time to think about your health and the health of others. You can honor it by:

  • Engaging in activities that reduce the risk of diabetes, such as exercise and healthy eating.
  • Sharing stories, health tips, and educational resources on social media to raise awareness.
  • Donating to the American Diabetes Association and other organizations that help prevent and offer diabetes treatment.
  • Attending ADM Events- The ADM offers several online events that educate people on diabetes.

How Senior Care in Harrisburg PA Reduces Diabetes Risk

Type 1 diabetes starts in childhood. But type 2 diabetes, the more common type, develops in adulthood. And the risk increases with age.

Endocrine Society statistics show that 33% of adults 65 or over have diabetes.

Diabetes risk can be reduced with senior care. Harrisburg PA seniors can hire a home aide to help them follow a healthy menu. The caregiver will also encourage them to exercise and maintain a healthy weight.

Weight management is essential in diabetes prevention. The more excess weight you have, the more resistant your tissue cells and muscles are to insulin. The higher your BMI, the greater your risk of diabetes.

A caregiver can also help seniors who already have diabetes. They will ensure they follow a diet that keeps diabetes under control, helping them maintain a healthy weight, and reminding them to take their medications.

AmeriBest Offers Home Care in Harrisburg PA

AmeriBest does its part by providing non-medical home care to seniors and the disabled. We can help with medication management, ensure your loved one follows a healthy dietary and exercise routine, or even provide transportation assistance for doctor visits.

Additionally, we offer training so relatives can get paid for caring for their loved ones. Our caregivers receive bonuses and competitive pay. They can take advantage of educational opportunities in a supportive environment.

Your loved one deserves the best. Learn more about what we have to offer! Contact AmeriBest today.

Lung Cancer Awareness Month: Celebrating Survivors and Honoring Lost Loved Ones

Get Paid to Take Care of Your Loved Ones Harrisburg PA

So many of us have lost loved ones to lung cancer. Honor them in November during Lung Cancer Awareness Month. You can make a difference by raising awareness to ensure lung cancer doesn’t take more lives. Additionally, if you are currently caring for someone battling cancer or another disease or disability, reach out to AmeriBest to see if you can get paid to take care of your loved ones in Harrisburg PA.

About Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Lung Cancer Awareness Month became official on October 31, 2022, when President and First Lady Biden issued a Presidential Proclamation. If you’d like to learn more, the Lung Cancer Initiative offers several ways for you to get involved.

What You Can Do to Honor Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Attend Events: The Lung Cancer Initiative hosts several events that honor Lung Cancer Awareness Month. People worldwide can attend the Online Survivor Luncheon on Nov. 1. NC residents and visitors can participate in in-person events like the Evening of Hope, the Jodi Koviach Memorial 5 K Run & Walk, and the Community Education Community. Find out what events are happening in your area!

Get Tested: Make sure lung cancer doesn’t happen to you. Getting tested is crucial to early detection. It increases survival rates. Learn about testing resources in your community.

Wear a White Ribbon: Wear a white ribbon to raise awareness about lung cancer. The LCI will mail out white ribbons upon request. Give them to your family and friends to draw attention to the cause.

Tell Your Story: Share stories about your battle with lung cancer. You can share them through social media, in person, or send them to the LCI.  They may feature your story in one of their publications.

Learn: The LCI provides educational materials you can request through their website. You can also view their educational seminars online. Or invite an LCI member to speak at your church or community event.

Donate: Donate to the LCI and other lung cancer organizations. Your money will raise awareness and fund research.

Get Paid to Take Care of Your Loved Ones in Harrisburg PA

AmeriBest understands that many of our clients are affected by loved ones who lost their lives to lung cancer. We do our part by providing seniors with companionship and other non-medical in-home care services. We can also help people with lung cancer or affected by lung cancer by ensuring they eat healthy and follow their treatment plans; or ease the financial burden by providing opportunities to get paid to take care of your loved ones. Harrisburg PA residents can apply to take advantage of competitive pay and benefits. You will learn in a supportive environment and receive ongoing education.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more about what we have to offer!

Important Update to Your Medicaid Plan

Important Update to Your Medicaid Plan

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, COVID is no longer considered a Public Health Emergency. As a result, people covered by Medicaid during the pandemic may lose their benefits.

People must be proactive if they want to retain their benefits. The State of Pennsylvania requires all Medicaid patients to go through a renewal process to see if they are eligible. A renewal application can be filed online, by mail, by telephone, and in person.

Why is Eligibility Changing?

Healthcare systems became more flexible during the pandemic to extend care to vulnerable groups. Emergency waivers, regulations, and sub-regulatory guidelines were put in place to make care more accessible and to ensure providers could meet healthcare needs. Now that the health emergency is over, there is no need for expanded care, and many of these waivers and regulations will no longer be effective.

The end of the Public Health Emergency doesn’t necessarily mean you will lose your benefits. Many waivers ended on May 11, 2023, but others will remain active for six months after the emergency ends. Some waivers and flexibilities may stay in place indefinitely, including those that cover community-based and home-based care.

Visit the CMS Waivers, Flexibilities, and the End of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency PDF for more details.

How to Keep Your Medicaid Benefits

Individuals who wish to maintain their Medicaid benefits must go through the renewal process. The process involves:

  • Update your information on the COMPASS website or by calling 877-395-8930 or 215-560-7226.
  • Renew your benefits by filling out the renewal forms mailed to you, completing renewal forms on the COMPASS website, or renewing by phone by calling 866-550-4355.

What If I Need Help Renewing My Medicaid Insurance?

Several resources are available for individuals who need assistance filling out their Medicaid renewal forms. These include:

  • PA.Gov and COMPASS
  • Pennsylvania Department of Human Services- Call 877-395-8930 or 215-560-7226
  • Pennsylvania Health Action Network helpline- Call 877-570-3642 or contact by email at helpline@pahealthaccess.com
  • Call Philadelphia 311
  • AmeriBest 800-HOMECARE

What Can I Do if I Lose My Benefits?

If you lose your benefits, the Pennsylvania government offers other low-cost healthcare alternatives accessible through the state’s Pennie.com marketplace. If you have children under 19, you may also explore options at chipcoverspakids.com.

AmeriBest Home Care Can Help

At AmeriBest, we understand you may be confused during this trying time. We are here to help. Call us at 1800-HOMECARE or read more here.
We will assist you in navigating the renewal and application process. We will ensure you have access to the high-quality care you deserve.

Nurturing Caregivers: A Solution to the Caregiver Shortage in PA

get paid for caregiving

Shortages in the healthcare community have been plaguing the medical industry since the pandemic. They are acutely felt in the caregiving sector. As professional caregivers leave, countless people must give up their jobs to care for elderly and disabled relatives. AmeriBest is solving the caregiver shortage by offering the opportunity for people to become certified caregivers with no prior experience. Read on to learn more about this state program.

The Caregiver Shortage in America

America’s senior population is growing. It should surpass 80 million by 2040. More caregivers are needed to assist them with their health and personal care needs.

The pandemic hit the industry hard. Three years later, it is still trying to recover. But nursing home and in-home care workers are currently 8% below what they were in 2020.

A CVS Health and Harris poll found that 57% of Americans say there are not enough professional caregivers. 51% say it’s hard to find professional caregivers. 13% of caregiver respondents had to quit their jobs to become a caregiver. 24% had to cut their work hours.

The toll on caregivers is more than economic. They are also suffering emotionally. 49% say their mental health has suffered. 76% say they have sacrificed elements of their personal life for caregiving.

How Caregivers Can Get Help

Fortunately, there are programs available that aid caregivers and their loved ones. They include:

Medicare Advantage: Medicare Advantage offer benefits that cover dental, vision, and hearing exams and may also cover dental, eyeglass, and hearing aids. Some programs may also aid in purchasing over-the-counter medications, health aid supplies, and healthy foods.

Resources for Living: This program offers Aetna Health Advantage members and their caregivers access to consultants that help them find resources in their community for in-home care and respite care. They can also assist them in locating caregiver support groups that help with stress management.

Papa: Papa provides Aetna Medicare Advantage plan members access to Papa Pals- people who offer companionship and assistance with everyday tasks.

How AmeriBest Home Care is Making a Difference

AmeriBest is doing its part by offering caregiver certification to people who have no prior experience. Workers train in a supportive, team-oriented environment. We provide professional training in a state-of-the-art facility. Caregivers will enjoy the culture of a collaborative workplace.

They can also count on competitive pay and benefits. They can take advantage of consistent, flexible hours and perks like paid time off and holidays and a $500 sign-on bonus. They will work with one of the largest and fastest-growing providers in the state.

Our efforts are bringing more workers to the caregiver community. Our competitive pay and benefits present attractive options to unskilled workers. People caring for a loved one may join to get paid for their efforts.

AmeriBest’s “Become a Caregiver” program is one of the many ways we help our community. We also provide the best care to our clients and families. Contact us to learn how you can get started on your journey.

AI in Home Care: Are Caregivers Being Replaced?

AI in Home Care: Are Caregivers Being Replaced?

The medical industry is changing. AI is now integrated into many health processes to produce more accurate diagnoses and minimize labor. But will the AI revolution reduce the demand for caregivers?

The answer is no. There will never be a replacement for the personalized care a caregiver can provide. However, AI can enhance caregiver services to make them more efficient. Read on to find out more about the blossoming relationship.

How is AI integrated into In-Home Care?

Health Monitoring: AI can monitor patient vital signs like heart rate, respiration, blood pressure, and more. If unusual rates are detected, it can alert healthcare providers. It ensures caregivers are aware of changes that affect how they administer care. It also keeps them in the loop when they are away from their clients.

Mental Health Monitoring: AI can identify trends in behaviors and risk factors to assess the risk of depression, anxiety, dementia, and other cognitive issues. The information allows caregivers to tailor plans that include cognitive exercises and therapies that meet their client’s unique requirements. They can also alert caregivers when signs of mental deterioration are detected.

Increase Efficiency: Caregivers often play catch-up because they must juggle various tasks. AI helps them become more efficient by allowing them to easily coordinate with case managers, manage medications, and monitor patient progress. It also provides easy access to patient health records so they can determine the best patient care and minimize errors.

Improves Agency Operations: AI improves agency operations to provide better service directly and through their caregivers. It can optimize scheduling and routing so agencies minimize travel time. It provides data that helps agencies identify problem areas, improve efficiency and reduce costs. It streamlines operations like inventory, billing, and scheduling so staff members can focus on more pressing tasks.

Digital Chatbots: Caregivers offer companionship to seniors. They reduce feelings of depression and anxiety related to failing health and isolation. But digital chatbots provide a similar service when caregivers are not around. They use voice assistants, smart speakers, or algorithms to mimic natural language to keep clients company and collect information on their emotional states. The data is passed on to caregivers to determine the best-customized care plans.

AmeriBest Provides Opportunities in the Caregiving Space

AI may replace workers in some industries. But the caregiver industry will remain strong. AI will help employees and agencies improve their systems and provide an even higher level of care.

And nothing will replace the personal touch a caregiver provides. Caregivers offer companionship and customized care that is irreplaceable.

Caregiving is a thriving industry with lots of demand. If you wish to get in on the ground floor, AmeriBest can help.

AmeriBest provides training to individuals starting in the caregiver industry. We offer competitive pay and benefits and consistent, flexible hours. Workers receive professional training in our state-the-art facility.  They can thrive in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.

Caregiving is a stable and rewarding career. Contact AmeriBest to get started today. It’s one of the best decisions you can make.