Caring for an elderly loved one is a big responsibility and shows deep compassion. Like you, millions are taking on this pivotal role. In 2021, a study by AARP found that about 38 million family caregivers in the U.S. gave care valued at $600 billion.
But here's the reassuring part: you're not navigating this journey alone. Medicare has several resources available to assist you. This guide is for caregivers like you. It provides tools, benefits, and important information to make caregiving easier.
Understanding Medicare’s Role in Caregiving
Understanding how Medicare can support your caregiving efforts is a crucial first step. Medicare is a federal program primarily for people 65 and older. The program offers several types of coverage:
- hospital and inpatient services insurance (Part A),
- medical insurance for outpatient services, like doctor visits (Part B),
- and prescription drugs (Part D).
Medicare Advantage (Part C) is a private insurance plan that provides all of Part A and Part B but can also include vision and dental care.
Related: What is Medicare: An Introductory Guide
One important way Medicare can support you is by providing home health services for your loved one. Original Medicare covers part-time skilled nursing care, home health aides, and physical therapy. To qualify for these services, a loved one must be homebound and need occasional skilled nursing care.
Moreover, the Medicare Home Health Benefit can provide specific advantages for caregivers. In 2021 alone, about 3 million Medicare beneficiaries received home health services. Families can use these options to choose the best care services for their loved ones.
State-Specific Programs
Each state has different rules and programs for caregiving, including Medicaid. Medicaid is different from Medicare. The state runs it and has waivers for personal care services. In some states, family members can even act as paid caregivers under Medicaid.
We know it's a lot to grasp, but agencies like your local Area Agency on Aging can help simplify things. They can guide you through Medicaid options with free or low-cost consultations.
Programs for Veterans
If your loved one is a veteran, extra resources are available. Veterans can use the Veteran Directed Home & Community Based Care program to manage their health care. They can also hire family members as paid caregivers. Qualified veterans and their survivors can receive monthly payments and the regular VA pension through the Aid & Attendance Benefits.
Additionally, the VA has a Caregiver Support Program. This program offers clinical services, education, resources, and legal and financial planning services.
Tools for Decision-Making & Care Coordination
It's important to understand how Medicare helps with caregiving, even if it seems overwhelming. Here are some tools that can simplify this process:
- The Medicare Plan Finder tool is a great place to find a plan that suits your loved one. Enrollment typically occurs October-December for coverage the following year.
- Medicare has a list of approved apps. These apps let you share your loved one's health info with doctors. Also, you can view all their medical records in one convenient place.
- You can use MyMedicare.gov to keep track of your loved one's claims, manage prescriptions, and coordinate health services.
- The State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) offer free Medicare counseling. They help you and your loved ones understand and get the right coverage.
Power of Attorney: An Essential Tool
Power of Attorney (POA) is a critical instrument for caregivers. A POA allows you to make legal decisions on behalf of your loved one. If the person you care for is mentally competent, they can willingly sign the POA to you. If they're not mentally competent, you must go through a legal process to secure a POA. This tool is indispensable for those making both medical and financial decisions.
Other Financial Support Avenues for Caregivers
Taking on a caregiving role can have considerable financial implications. Caregivers in the United States spent $7,242 on average of their own money on caregiving in 2020. But, there are ways to mitigate this strain, and there's no shame in seeking help.
Caregivers can save money by deducting expenses. This covers medical expenses, home improvements for health, and travel costs for care. Long-term care insurance can help with caregiving costs, and some plans pay family caregivers.
Additionally, some employers offer paid leave for caregivers. According to a report by Homethrive, 21% of employers offer benefits for caregivers.
Community and Local Support
Community outreach and local resources offer help that government programs may be unable to provide. Certain communities offer specialized programs for older individuals. There are programs for adults, like day care centers and meal delivery. They also offer transportation for medical appointments, which is either free or affordable.
Caregivers and their families can get help from nearby charities, religious groups, and community centers. These local places host events, workshops, and meetings. Caregivers can meet, talk, and share tips and stories. Also, it's a good idea to ask the doctor of the person you're caring for about other resources you can use.
Emotional and Mental Health Resources for Caregivers
Caregiving can be as emotionally challenging as it is rewarding. Your feelings are valid. AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving found that 40% of caregivers felt stressed. Additionally, more than half of the caregivers faced challenges with their mental health. Yet, emotional and mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for sustained caregiving.
The online forums of the Caregiver Action Network create a community for caregivers. They can share and seek advice from each other. Some insurance plans cover mental health services for caregivers dealing with unique stresses.
Technology can also be an ally. Caregivers can use apps like Headspace to learn how to manage stress effectively. The American Psychological Association also helps caregivers take care of their emotional and mental health.
Final Thoughts
Being a caregiver is tough, but there are resources like Medicare and community support to help make it easier.
CareAllies is dedicated to helping your loved one's doctors offer personalized, efficient, high-quality care. The doctors at CareAllies are experts who can help with any health issues your loved one faces. Our nurses focus on value-based care and work with your loved one's doctor to help you easily navigate health care. This way, you can focus on being a caregiver.
Staying informed about Medicare, CareAllies, and other support options can help ensure the best care for you and your loved one.