How to choose between home health care and live-in care in Ohio

June 16, 2021 at 7:00 AM
How to choose between home health care and live-in care in Ohio

If you have a parent or loved one who requires extra care, it can be difficult to choose the proper amount for them. There’s a delicate balance between getting home health care in Ohio and knowing when it’s time to have your loved one move to a nursing home. In the meantime, it’s important to make sure that you know exactly what kind of care they need. At Miami Valley Homecare, we can answer some questions you might have when choosing between home health and live-in care at this time.

What are some of the main differences?

There are several main differences between home health care and live-in care. Ultimately, the differences can be identified in the type of care that’s provided. Live-in care is primarily designated for those who can take care of themselves but need extra help around the house. Home health care is provided by a licensed professional who can provide medical care that includes testing, administering medication, and more.

How much care is needed?

If you’re trying to make a decision between home health care and live-in care, one of the biggest deciding factors when choosing in-home care. A person who can mostly go about their day but needs some assistance with tasks around the home and companionship is a good candidate for live-in care. Conversely, a patient who requires assistance with tasks that can include nursing wound care, and general medical condition monitoring would be in need of more hands-on care. In this case, home health care would be more appropriate.

What will the cost be?

Anytime you’re looking into care for a loved one, it’s important to consider the cost. Is insurance going to help with the cost or are they going to have to pay out-of-pocket for care? If so, will they have enough money to maintain the level of care that they need? It’s important to understand that because home care is often medically necessary, insurance companies are much more likely to help cover the costs. This can be done via Medicare, Medicaid, or a private insurance plan. Live-in care is not typically covered by Medicare or Medicaid plans, but a long-term insurance policy could help with some of the cost. Speak with your loved one’s insurance company if you’re considering this level of care.

Is there a specific condition being cared for?

When it comes to choosing the proper type of care, keep in mind what your loved one is being cared for. Is there a specific medical condition that needs daily attention? Or are you looking for someone who can help your parent remember to take medication throughout the day and help with laundry? Many medical conditions cannot, and should not, be managed by a live-in care provider. Rather, these conditions should be attended to by skilled nurses who are able to provide proper home health care.

Contact us for more

If you’d like to learn more about our live-in or home health care in Ohio, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our staff at Miami Valley Homecare can provide you with answers to all of your questions to aid you in choosing the proper amount of care for your loved one. Get in touch by calling 937-671-2273 and you can speak with a member of our staff. You can also email us at gdixon@miamivalleyhomecare.net or send a message through our online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you make a decision regarding the right care for your loved one.