Navigating Healthcare Appointments: Our Role in Senior

Senior transportation is a key aspect of in-home caregiving services. Transportation can take many forms, from walking with a senior to driving them to and from medical appointments. Similarly, your elderly loved one may require transportation for various reasons. If you’re searching for senior transportation in Philadelphia for your elderly or disabled family member, in-home personal care aides may be an excellent solution.

The What and Why of Senior Transportation in Philadelphia 

Senior transportation is a broad term. It most often refers to vehicle transportation when an elderly individual can no longer drive themselves. However, personal care assistants can also aid with physical transportation, such as walking alongside your loved one to their neighbor’s house. Both forms of transportation can benefit elderly individuals in many ways. Transportation allows your loved one to access various resources, including medical appointments, grocery stores, and community events, and maintain social connections. In-home health aide transportation services for seniors keep them connected in a convenient and friendly manner.

Transportation To and From Healthcare Appointments; Our Role 

According to AARP, seniors should see their primary healthcare provider at least once a year. However, as you age, the number of medical appointments often increases. Having rides to and from these appointments is critical for your aging loved ones.

Effortlessly arrangement      

In-home personal assistance, like the support offered through AmeriBest Home Care, offers safe, reliable, and convenient transportation to and from medical appointments. Arranging transportation is easy and eliminates the hassle of navigating public transportation or commercial services like Uber or Lyft. Home health care means that you can arrange to have someone available to transport your loved one exactly when they need it.

Friendly service 

Unlike public transportation or rideshare services, which can be unfamiliar and daunting, senior transportation in Philadelphia through a home care aide is friendly and comforting. Your loved one will likely develop a report with their assistant. Similarly, their aide may learn your family members’s preferred routes or arrival times, ensuring their journey is as smooth and pleasant as possible.

A decrease in time and stress   

Traditional transportation methods, like buses, ridesharing, or commercial services, aren’t always easy, timely, dependable, or accommodating. It can be stressful for elderly or disabled individuals to figure out the logistics of making it to and from their medical appointments, potentially increasing the likelihood of them not going at all. While family members often make every effort to help when they can, taking time off from work or family activities to transport an elderly loved one can be stressful and time-consuming. Using a home health care aide to provide transportation is a convenient solution for everyone.

Adaptable care   

Prioritizing transportation for elderly or disabled loved ones is a vital service. Still, sometimes, these individuals may need more support than a ride. In-home assisted living services go beyond transportation. You can work with home care agencies, like AmeriBest Home Care, to find support for various aspects of daily living, including help with personal routines, medication management, companionship, meal preparation, and light housekeeping.  Home health aide services are versatile and adaptable, helping your loved one maintain the best quality of life as they age.

Navigating Healthcare Appointments

Find Out How AmeriBest Home Care Can Transport Your Loved One   

If you’re searching for senior transportation in Philadelphia, PA, AmeriBest Home Care can help you navigate the array of services available. We are conveniently located in the heart of Philadelphia, as well as Harrisburg and Allentown, which are ideal locations to provide senior transportation to your loved one. Whether it’s a medical appointment, personal errand, or long-awaited visit with friends, our transportation services can make the journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. 

Call us at 1-800-HOMECARE to learn more about how we can help. 

Comparing Care: A List of Home Care Agencies in Philadelphia, PA

Comparing Care: A List of Home Care Agencies in Philadelphia, PA

When it comes to finding the right home care agency in Philadelphia, PA, the choices can be overwhelming. To make your decision easier, the Pennsylvania Homecare Association (PHA) compiled a list of accredited home care agencies in the area: HERE.

Creating a List of Home Agencies in Philadelphia, PA 

When it comes to finding the right home care for yourself or your loved ones in Philadelphia, PA, the array of options can be overwhelming. Understanding the different types of care available is crucial in making an informed decision that best suits your specific needs. Let’s explore some of the key home care services in Philadelphia and how they can benefit you as you compile a list of home agencies in Philadelphia, PA.

1. Adult Day Care

Adult Day Care centers are an excellent choice for seniors who require assistance and social interaction during the day but can return home in the evenings. These facilities often provide meals, recreational activities, and sometimes health services, offering a safe and engaging environment for seniors.

2. Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)

CCRCs are a unique option as they offer a tiered approach to aging, combining independent living, assisted living, and nursing home care. This setup allows seniors to transition between levels of care as needed, all within the same community.

3. Home Health Agency

For those who require medical care at home, Home Health Agencies provide services like skilled nursing, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. This option is ideal for individuals recovering from illness, surgery, or managing chronic health conditions.

4. Registry Services

Registries act as intermediaries that connect families with home care professionals. They offer flexibility in choosing caregivers and schedules, making it a good option for those needing customized care arrangements.

5. Hospice Care

Hospice care is focused on providing compassionate care and comfort to individuals in the final stages of a terminal illness. This type of care prioritizes quality of life and can be provided at home or in a hospice facility.

6. LIFE Program

Living Independently for Elders (LIFE) is a unique program in Pennsylvania that provides a comprehensive, all-inclusive care package for older people. The program includes medical, social, and daily living support to help seniors live independently for as long as possible.

Embarking on this journey to find the right care can indeed be daunting. At AmeriBest Home Care, we understand the complexities involved in navigating these choices. We are always here to answer your questions and guide you through the process of selecting the best care option in Philadelphia, PA. Whether it’s understanding the specifics of each service or determining what fits your unique needs, our team is dedicated to assisting you every step of the way.

Things to Consider When Picking a Home Healthcare Agency 

When choosing a home healthcare agency, there are several key factors to think about to ensure that you or your loved one receives the best possible care. When it comes to a home healthcare agency, one size does not fit all. Each agency is unique, and what works for one patient might not meet the complete needs of another. 

  • Evaluate the agency’s reputation and reviews. Always take the time to read feedback from current or past clients to gauge the quality of care and customer satisfaction. 
  • Verify the agency’s licensing and accreditation status.
  • Consider the range of services offered and needed.
  • Research the qualifications and training of the staff. Always ask about their experience and expertise, particularly for conditions or needs specific to the patient.
  • Choose an agency that is responsive and maintains open, clear communication with clients and their families. 
  • Consider the cost and compatibility with insurance plans or Medicare/Medicaid to ensure the services are financially manageable. 

Carefully assessing these aspects will help in selecting a home healthcare agency that is reliable, professional, and best suited to meet individual care needs.

Philadelphia, PA is home to a diverse range of home care agencies, each with its unique specialties and services. AmeriBest HomeCare, with its commitment to quality and personalized care, is a top choice among these. We are one of the top 5 agencies in PA with a stellar reputation, continuous caregiver training, and an IMPRESSIVE benefits package. Call 1800-HOMECARE with any questions – we are here for you.

No matter, if you reside in Philadelphia, Allentown, Harrisburg, or anywhere nearby, our dedicated and professional team, is at your service. We’re your reliable choice for top-notch in-home senior care services. Reach out to AmeriBest Home Care today to discover more.

 

What home health care is offered to seniors and people with disabilities in Pennsylvania? 

home health care in Pennsylvania

What home health care is offered to seniors and people with disabilities in Pennsylvania? 

Home health care in Pennsylvania is designed to help seniors and the disabled live independently and stay in their own homes as long as possible. With home health care, you’ll receive the care you require while having the convenience of remaining in your own home.  

What is Home Health Care in Pennsylvania?

Home health care encompasses several different services, from primary care to skilled nursing. The benefit of choosing home care is that statistically, individuals who receive this kind of care are 5-15% less likely to enter a nursing home or a hospital. 

The first step in finding home health care is understanding the available services. Home health care often serves as a way to provide skilled care after a hospitalization, injury, or illness. However, home health care can also be used to help seniors and the disabled continue to maintain their self-sufficiency. 

Home health care can be divided into two main categories: medical and non-medical. The services offered vary within each of these categories. Depending upon your situation, you may need one or the other, or both types of home care. 

Please note: AmeriBest is a non-skilled home care services provider, but we’ll be with you every step of the way, for hours a day, if needed and prescribed by your physician, instead of checking in on you once in a while. Call us at 1800-HOMECARE and ask about the services available!

Medical Home Health Care

Medical home health care, also referred to as skilled home health, is often required after hospitalization or an illness. Types of services offered under the umbrella of medical home health care include: 

  • Skilled Nursing
  • Physical therapy
  • Assistance with medical equipment
  • Wound care for surgical wounds or pressure wounds
  • Injections
  • Intravenous medications
  • Medical oversight of an unstable condition
  • Occupational therapy
  • Speech therapy

To get medical home health care, you’ll need the individual’s health care provider to provide orders for services. Your medical home health care team will work directly with the health care provider to keep them up to date on your progress.  

Non-Medical Home Health Care

Non-medical home health care provides a broader level of service that helps provide assistance to help maintain self-sufficiency. Receiving non-medical home care without a doctor’s order will be an out-of-pocket expense. If you need insurance to pay (or even partially pay), you will need to get a doctor’s order to receive non-medical home health care in Pennsylvania. 

Care can be daily for several hours to just a few hours a week, depending on an individual’s needs. Services provided with non-medical home health care include: 

  • Light housekeeping
  • Meal preparation
  • Laundry
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Shopping
  • Companionship
  • Medication reminders
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Coordinating health transportation and care, and more.

Caregivers can work with an individual to maintain the hygiene and safety of their space and make sure individuals are eating correctly and taking their medications according to the doctor’s orders. Non-medical home care is an appealing option for seniors and people with disabilities who want to remain in their own homes rather than move to a skilled nursing facility and don’t necessarily need skilled nursing services.

home health care in Pennsylvania

Choosing the Right Home Health Care in Pennsylvania for You

When choosing the proper home health care for you and your loved ones, you want a team that is qualified to meet your needs and dedicated to providing the best care possible. AmeriBest’s sole focus is helping seniors and people with disabilities of Pennsylvania maintain as much independence as possible by providing non-medical home care from reliable caregivers.

With multiple programs and services available, the AmeriBest Team can help walk you through what’s available to help your loved ones get the right kind of care that will help foster their self-sufficiency and independence. Empower your loved one’s well-being – contact us today to discuss our available services and get paired with one of our compassionate caregivers.  

 

Becoming a Paid Family Caregiver in Philadelphia, PA: A Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming a paid family caregiver in Philadelphia, PA, comes with a unique set of responsibilities and rewards. At AmeriBest Home Care, we understand this role goes beyond just providing physical and emotional support to your loved ones; it encompasses navigating complex legal and financial issues. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to become a paid family caregiver in Pennsylvania, ensuring you’re well-equipped to offer both emotional and financial support to those you care for.

The Emotional and Physical Impact of Family Caregiving

Caring for a family member is more than just a responsibility; it’s a profound act of love and dedication. As a paid caregiver, you ensure your loved one receives compassionate care from someone they deeply trust and cherish. This role, while physically and emotionally taxing, is also a source of immense fulfillment, strengthening your bond. However, it’s important to acknowledge the varied impacts of caregiving:

●      Emotional Stress: Caregivers often face stress and anxiety, feeling overwhelmed by the continuous caregiving demands.

●      Physical Strain: The role’s physical aspects, like lifting, can lead to fatigue and injury.

●      Social Isolation: Engagement in social activities may decrease, causing loneliness.

● Health Risks: Persistent stress heightens the risk of depression and other stress-related conditions.

●      Reward and Satisfaction: Despite challenges, caregiving offers a profound sense of fulfillment and emotional connection.

●      Personal Growth: The experience fosters empathy, patience, and resilience, enhancing personal development.

●      Improved Relationships: Caregiving often deepens the bond between caregiver and recipient, creating a stronger connection.

●      Sense of Purpose: Many caregivers discover a renewed purpose and meaning in life through this caring role.

Understanding Medicaid Waivers in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, family caregivers can receive financial support through Medicaid Waivers. These waivers, under broad federal guidelines, allow the state more flexibility to pay for personal care and household services for individuals living outside of long-term care facilities. This is especially beneficial for older adults or individuals with disabilities living in their homes or with family members.

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services oversees various Medical Assistance/Medicaid waivers, each with distinct eligibility criteria and services. These include:

● Adult Autism Waiver (AAW)

● Aging Waiver

● Alternatives To Nursing Homes

● Attendant Care Waiver

● Community HealthChoices

● Community Living Waiver

● Consolidated Waiver

● Independence Waiver

● Infant, Toddlers, and Families Waiver

● Medicaid Waivers for Intellectual Disabilities Supports and Services

● OBRA Waiver

● Person/Family Directed Support Waiver

Each waiver is designed to cater to specific needs, promoting community-based support and enhancing the quality of life for Pennsylvanians in need.

Eligibility for Paid Family Caregiving in Philadelphia

To become a paid family caregiver, you must qualify through the eligibility criteria. These include both financial and functional requirements. A key component is obtaining physician certification, indicating the need for long-term services and support. Additionally, income and asset limits are set by the state, which you must meet to qualify for the Medicaid Waiver Program under Community HealthChoices (CHC).

Upon qualifying for the CHC waiver, individuals gain access to both standard Medicaid benefits and additional waiver services. Behavioral health care, including mental health and substance use disorder treatments, is provided through a managed care plan determined by the individual’s county. For physical health needs like primary care, hospital visits, specialists, dental services, and home-based services, beneficiaries utilize a Community HealthChoices managed care plan. There are three CHC plan options:

1. AmeriHealth Caritas CHC (known as Keystone First CHC in Bucks, Chester, Delaware,

Montgomery, and Philadelphia Counties)

2. Pennsylvania Health & Wellness

3. UPMC Community HealthChoices

At the onset of waiver eligibility, individuals are informed about these plan options and can change their plan anytime. Without a specific choice, automatic enrollment in a CHC plan will occur. Working with a Pennsylvania Independent Enrollment Broker facilitates enrollment and eligibility for CHC. They are an essential resource for understanding the various programs and services available and can guide you through the application process.

Choosing a Home Care Agency

Once eligibility is confirmed, the next step is to select a home care agency that allows the employment of family members. This choice is crucial, as the agency will be your partner in providing high-quality care. They offer training, development, and support, ensuring that you are well-equipped to care for your loved one. It’s not just about finding an organization that allows you to care for your loved one; it’s about choosing a partner that aligns with your caregiving philosophy and values.

The chosen home care agency will be instrumental in your development as a family caregiver. They provide essential training, development opportunities, and ongoing support. This guidance is crucial, especially if you’re new to caregiving. The agency will help equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide the best possible care to your loved one. Their resources and support can make a significant difference in your confidence and effectiveness as a caregiver, ensuring that you’re not just caring for your loved one, but also growing and learning in the role.

Compensation for Family Caregivers

Compensation for family caregivers in Philadelphia, PA, varies depending on the home care agency. However, all agencies receiving Medicaid waiver payments have a similar pay range, determined by the state’s reimbursement rates. It’s important to consider not just the pay but also the additional benefits and training opportunities the agency offers.

AmeriBest Home Care: Committed to Supporting Philadelphia’s Family Caregivers

At AmeriBest Home Care, our dedication lies in empowering family caregivers throughout Pennsylvania. We understand the complexities and nuances involved in becoming a paid family caregiver.

Our team is equipped to guide you through every step of this process. From clarifying eligibility criteria to assisting in selecting the ideal home care agency for your unique situation, we’re here to offer comprehensive support. We believe in making the transition to a paid caregiver as smooth and informed as possible. Reach out to us at 1-800-HOMECARE today to begin your journey.