Does Medicare cover home health care?
Caring for your parent: are there any social security benefits?
We know that taking care of an older adult is costly. And this happens since there are plenty of costs you need to cover straight from your pocket. Home care help, home adjustments, medical supplies, or some prescription drugs might not be subject to coverage. So, the question that remains here is whether or not caring for a senior gets you social security benefits.
Three approaches can get you paid as a family caregiver. And this can help you cover for unexpected expenses when caring for a loved one at home. Let’s take a look at each to see if you qualify.
Medicaid Programs
The first thing you need to consider is the programs offered by Medicaid. These provide money to seniors so that they can access the in-home caregiver services. And the best part about this is that a family member or friend can be chosen for the job. Of course, depending on the area you live, you will be subject to different eligibility criteria. But this is one of the best approaches to access in-home care aid for your loved one.
Special State Programs
Different areas come with various social aid programs. This signifies that a family can get paid as caregivers so that they keep their loved on in the comfort of their homes. Many people who are not eligible for Medicaid can benefit from special state programs. Just make sure you reach out to a local agency that specializes in helping older adults.
Veterans Benefits Programs
There is a special service created for veterans: the Veteran-Directed Home and Community-Based Services. It is a home care program meant to help veterans of all ages who face institutional placement. It is an ally for those veterans that want to live in their own homes. And it can offer significant monetary help for getting access to a caregiver. Any family member or friend can qualify for taking care of a veteran.
Keep in mind that veterans who receive a VA pension and require in-home care might receive extra monetary benefits. You can reach out to a local VA regional office so that you discuss your loved one’s situation.
The bottom line
If you aim to become a paid caregiver to help your loved one, here are the main steps you need to take to receive compensation as a family member:
- Verify your eligibility for Medicaid’s Program
- Choose a home or community-based service program for your loved one
- Check to see if your parent is eligible for Veterans Aid
- Check to see if your parent can receive benefits from an insurance policy for caregiver compensation
Of course, you can always reach out for help from other family members. After all, the goal is to make your senior as comfortable as possible. And we do believe that home care for the elderly is the best choice for releasing the old age burden and making them comfortable.