By definition, home and community-based services allow people of all ages who have physical limitations to remain independent in the least restrictive settings possible and to be connected with their communities.
Although there are government funded services such as Medicaid Waivers for people with disabilities or income-based homemaker and attendant care services for the elderly, services usually work in conjunction with an informal support network. Such networks are composed of family members, friends, and neighbors who care for people of any age who face chronic illness or disability.
A recent study funded by AARP took an in-depth look at the roles of supportive services. When the researchers asked open-ended questions about the respondents’ hopes and concerns, the number-one fear they named was loss of control. Further, when asked the statement, “What I’d really like to do is stay in my current resident as long as possible.” Among those persons aged 65 and older, 92% agreed or strongly agreed.
Independent living is not doing things by yourself. It is being in control of how things are done.
Home and community-based services (HCBS) are popular in the field of aging because they exemplify a social policy away from nursing homes and toward independent living and consumer control.
HCBS may be delivered through a medical or personal service model. The majority of funded services are delivered through the medical model, in which health care workers provide services under the supervision of physicians and nurses.
Another option that is growing rapidly is the personal service model. Under this model, seniors receive services in their homes from personal assistants or caregivers who are not supervised by medical professionals.
Payment for services is accomplished through private funds, long-term care insurance, Medicaid Waivers, Veterans benefits or converted life insurance policies. Services received could include meal planning and preparation, light housekeeping and laundry, medication reminders, bathing and grooming assistance and errands and transportation.
In Indiana, service provider companies must be licensed by the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH).
For more information on senior or homebound care, visit www.InHomebyChoice.com or call (765) 361-0600. Home by Choice has offices in Crawfordsville, Frankfort and Lafayette and is now serving Greencastle, Lebanon, Rockville, Zionsville and Covington.