What is Caregiving and
How Can You or a Loved One Benefit?

Independence is an important element of life for most of us and brings a sense of fulfillment to our individual lives. But what happens when you notice that daily tasks you once were able to do, you can no longer manage to do alone? Do you find yourself calling a family member or friend for extra help around the house? Are you a loved one that finds yourself doing the laundry and grocery shopping for a friend weekly? Are you taking dad to his doctor’s appointments and reminding him to take his medication daily? At first, the extra help may seem small but then you begin to realize it’s a continuous pattern and you are either in need of a caregiver or you have become the caregiver. With the right care, it is possible for you or a loved one to continue to live life, much as you always have, and embrace your independence with the additional support of a qualified caregiver.

Over 40% of adults age 65 and up need daily assistance; and somewhere between 50% – 70% of ALL people will require assistance with daily activities of life at some point in their lives. The former first lady, Rosalynn Carter, once stated “You have either been a caregiver, you are a caregiver, you will be a caregiver, or someone will care for you.” The definition of “Caregiving” is the activity or profession of regularly looking after a child or a sick, elderly, or disabled person. As a family member or friend who is caring for a loved one, the role of the caregiver may be overwhelming or exhausting at times, especially if you have another job. If you are the one receiving the additional support, you may feel dependent and fear the lack of independence. The need for additional assistance should not be feared, overwhelming or exhausting. It should be embraced and being aware is vital in your quest for professional care.

Type of Services

When hiring a caregiver or seeking a caregiving agency, you can expect to receive assistance with a variety of daily activities. These services are mostly provided in a home setting but can be arranged in a nursing home as well.

The six activities of daily living (ADLs) are:

• Bathing
• Grooming
• Eating
• Transferring/Mobility
• Toileting
• Continence

In addition, there are Instrumental ADLs (IADLs) such as shopping, companionship, light housekeeping, and transportation.

Services can be provided on a set hourly/weekly schedule or can be 24/7 depending on the needs of the person. When looking for the right care, it’s best to contact a licensed caregiving agency for further information. This will assure that you or your loved one is receiving a highly trained and experienced caregiver to provide the care that is needed.

Don’t Wait Too Long

Health and safety are two of the most important things in life and vital for us all. Often people wait too long or until an injury/incident occurs before they consider caregiving services, so it is vital to pay attention to any signs to be better prepared.

Caregiver services are a good option for:

• Recovery from an Illness or Surgery
• Risk of Falling
• Live with Family Member who Travel or Work Long Hours
• Need Transportation or Escort to Medical Appointments
• Live Alone and Need Companionship
• Bed Bound
• Need Assistance with Hygiene and Personal Care

Looking into Long-Term Care Insurance

Most health plans do not cover the costs of caregiving services. One of the more popular methods to manage care payments is through a Long-Term Care insurance policy. The amount of coverage varies depending on the type of policy you have but essentially you will have coverage for caregiver/homemakers providing ADLs. There are also government-funded programs that can support caregiving costs. For additional information on government-funded programs visit IHSS website here. However, most caregiving costs will be out of pocket if you do not have a long-term care plan or receive government funding. Preparing yourself and your loved ones by investing in long-term care now can assure you will have services covered when you are in need.

Private vs. Caregiving Agency

When searching for care, you can hire an independent caregiver, or you can work with an agency that will provide the right suitable caregiver based on your preferences and needs. There are pros/cons to both but choosing a caregiving agency is the best choice if you decide to do so. While price tends to be higher with choosing an agency, you are provided with licensed, highly trained, background checked/ screened, fully insured, and bonded caregivers. You will also have access to a care management team, care technology, better staffing options and scheduling, and less risk. When hiring an independent caregiver directly, you will be responsible for taxes, insurance, liability, scheduling, annual training, and background checks. During the time of need, gaining additional support from a licensed caregiving agency is the best way to make the transition easy and non-stressful. 

For further information on caregiving services contact our True Caregiving team at (844) 770-2273