In this issue of the DiGiorgio Law Firm, PLLC Estate Planning Newsletter we highlight some programs available to help seniors age in place and stay in their homes longer:
- Volunteer Transportation Services: Volunteer Transportation Services are available to take seniors over 60 shopping and other places they need to go. If you are a resident of Oneida County, please contact the “Office for the Aging & Continuing Care at 315 798-5465 for further information regarding this program. This is a volunteer program open to all seniors and is not subject to Medicaid or Medicare eligibility rules.
- Medicaid & Medicare Transportation Services: If you are eligible for Medicaid or Medicare you may be eligible to obtain transportation for certain medical services.
- Meals on Wheels: This program provides delivery of meals to home bound adults over 60 years of age who are at nutritional risk due to health, isolation or lack of access to groceries. A donation is requested from participants in the program. If you are a resident of Oneida County, please call 800 379-7499 to find out more about this program.;
Health Care Services in the Home:
- Medicare: If you are 65 or older and have recently been hospitalized Medicare may provide care in your home for up to 100 days for rehabilitation purposes. However, eligibility for these services is subject to ongoing assessments by the Medicare program and frequently does not last the full 100 days.
- Medicaid: On the other hand, if you meet the financial & medical eligibility requirements for Medicaid, you may be entitled to care in your home for an extended period of time. Please contact our office to learn more about accessing Medicaid Home Care Services as the rules have recently changed.
- Visiting Nurses Association: This organization provides in home care to homebound patients. If you are homebound and have need for intermittent, as opposed to daily skilled nursing or rehabilitative care, you may be eligible for this program. The Visiting Nurses Association may be paid for Medicare, or Medicaid if you are eligible, Private Insurance if included in your coverage, or by paying for it privately or out of pocket. If you are a resident of Oneida County, please call 315 624-4663 to learn more about these services.
- Hospice Care: This organization provides palliative care to relieve symptoms, as well as social, emotional and spiritual support to patients facing end of life care needs. Hospice services, can in some circumstances be provided in the home. Medicare, Medicaid, and the V.A. Some private insurers also offer “Hospice Benefits.” To find out more about Hospice in Oneida County, please call 315 735-6484.
- Housekeeping Services: There are some organizations that will provide non-medical respite care to the elderly and their families for a fee. Some of the services offered include light housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry and assistance with medical appointments. One such organization in Oneida County is Daughter for Hire, LLC. To learn more about the services they offer you may call 315 725-2955.
To learn more about steps you can take to protect assets for yourself and your loved ones call us to schedule a consultation today.