Supporting a Loved One with Compassion and Planning

Caregiving often begins with small tasks—helping with laundry, transportation, or household chores. Over time, it may grow to include managing medications, coordinating appointments, communicating with healthcare providers, and assisting with personal care like bathing, dressing, and feeding.
Whether you're just starting out or navigating more advanced care needs, understanding your options can help you plan with confidence.

Who Provides the Care?

Care can be provided by a range of individuals depending on the level of support needed:

• Family and Informal Caregivers
  Often, caregiving begins informally with family members offering companionship, emotional support, and help with daily tasks.
• Professional Caregivers
  These individuals have formal training and may be certified or licensed.
  • Common roles include:
    •  Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs)
    • Home Health Aides (HHAs)
    •  Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
    • They can assist with medical tasks, personal care, and specialized support.

How Much Does Care Cost?

Costs vary depending on the type and complexity of care:

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These are general estimates and may vary based on location, provider, and level of expertise.

Who Pays for the Care?

Payment options depend on the type of care and your eligibility:

• Original Medicare
  Does not cover non-medical home care aides. May cover limited home health care for homebound individuals.
• Medicare Advantage Plans
  Coverage varies by plan. Some may include personal care, palliative care, transportation, or home modifications.
• Medicaid
  Eligibility is based on income and assets, and varies by state. In Texas, there is a 60-month “look-back” period to prevent asset transfers for eligibility purposes.
• Veterans Administration (VA)
  May offer compensation for family caregivers under certain programs.
• Family Caregivers
  In many cases, family members provide care without compensation. However, some may qualify for payment through Medicaid or VA programs.

How to Find Quality Eldercare

Finding the right care starts with understanding your loved one’s needs:

• Determine the type of care required and how often it’s needed (hourly, daily, weekly, or live-in)
• Ask for recommendations from friends, family, and healthcare providers
• Visit the National Alliance for Care at Home for a list of reputable agencies
• Prepare questions in advance and involve your loved one in the decision-making process

Caregiving is a journey that requires planning, patience, and support. Whether you're providing care yourself or seeking professional help, the right resources can make all the difference.