Home Care for Seniors
Navigating the territory of seniors' housing options can be a challenge. In previous issues of ElderWise Info, we have explored changing living arrangements in Long-Term Care Planning (V.2.20), Long Term Care Terminology (V2.20 and V.2.21) as well as Assisted Living (V2.19).**
Home care is another important service for seniors and their families. This issue will help you understand:
What is Home Care?
Home care refers to a variety of programs offered in the community to help people remain in their own homes, help reduce hospital admissions, and allow earlier discharge from hospitals.
Home care is appropriate if you need professional service from registered nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and social workers, or if you need personal care provided by home health aides.
Who provides Home Care?
Both public and private sectors offer home and community care services. Public services are funded and managed by the local health authority. Eligibility depends on a professional's assessment of your individual needs, any existing supports, and community resources.
Private providers also play an important role, offering a variety of home care and support services. Some are non-profit organizations; others are businesses. These providers vary in types of services offered, staff qualifications, and costs. Seniors who want to stay in their home often mix different types of services, both public and private.
How do we find Home Care Services?
To find publicly funded services, contact your local health authority. A case manager or coordinator will arrange for an assessment to determine eligibility. To find private services, ask friends and colleagues for quality referrals. To find services outside your area, follow the process explained in our previous Info: Searching for Services at a Distance.
For an in-depth report on continuing care services, visit
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/pubs/continuing_care/cont-care_index_e.htm
Vol.3, No.11
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