Home Care vs a Nursing Facility

First you should understand what these terms, the benefits and drawbacks of each, and then make your decision. You should also be aware of what your insurance is and what is will or will not cover. Long-term home care is a specific additional coverage and is not included in most medical insurance policies nor is it covered by Medicare. You can purchase long-term care insurance through most medical insurance companies.

Home Health Care agencies provide licensed nurses for medical needs such as wound care or IV antibiotic therapy. They also provide licensed personnel for needs such as physical therapy or speech/swallow therapy. They may also provide a certified aide to help train the family how to care for a bed-bound patient. The benefit is that the patient is home in their familiar surroundings and with people who love them. The drawback is that when the skilled need or training is over so is the service. This is often fine for senior home care or for someone who is recovering from an illness, but is not a good plan for chronic bedridden patients.

Home Care agencies provide certified aides to perform assisted living activities such as eating, bathing, and grooming. Unfortunately, what you get often depends on what you pay for. These do not need to be licensed personnel but you should make sure that the company where they work is licensed and bonded so these workers do not become your employees. Again the benefit is that your loved one is at home. The drawback is finding good help.

Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF’s) are licensed agencies that have a whole team of workers who care for your loved one on their premises. They employ licensed nurses & therapists, certified nurse aides, nurse managers, and usually have a doctor on staff who they can call at any time. They provide meals, exercise, therapy, skilled medical needs (similar to the services a home health nurse would provide) and have 24 hour care, 7 days a week. The benefits are that you have licensed personnel caring for your loved one so you can still work and raise your family.

Financially, SNF’s are covered for short term use by many private insurance plans and by Medicare (usually less than 100 days). The major drawback is that some facilities are not as good as others and you have to be careful. Check with the better business bureau. Ask others if they know of any good places and look at several facilities before you decide. Do your research and make sure they have all the proper licenses and certifications.