What would be the best option for my mother?

Question

My mom has two insurance plans: Medicare and Southwestern. The problem is she has bad arthritis and can barely get around the house. She has fallen several times and has had to call people to help her up (sometimes she has had to wait for hours). I feel that she should have someone come to her home and check on her, maybe two or three times a weeks for several hours each. Also, perhaps the person can help bathe her and take her to medical appointments and shopping. Would insurance pay for something like this, say if the person was a nurse? How can our family get the insurance to pay for it? What are our options?

Thank you,

Pauley

Answer 1

HEALTH insurance doesn't pay for in home care.  You're talking about long term care insurance.

In order for the policy to activate, you usually have to be unable to perform certain functions.  BUT, if she's at that stage right now, it's too late to buy the coverage.

DO call a local agent, and talk to them about the possibility of a long term care policy.  She might not qualify at this point - but it might not be too late to buy one.   Just be really, really sure you understand exactly what is covered, at exactly what point, and exactly how much.

Answer 2

Call social services in your area and talk to them about it.

Answer 3

Well it depends on her insurance. May want to call and make sure. They may not cover private duty nursing. If it was skilled care it'd be different. You're wanting someone to come out and help her with activities of daily living. I know medicaid will cover this.