So new to this

noreika5

My mom was newly diagnosed . I have 1 million questions - but can I start with this ?
Has anyone had any luck with getting home care ( housework ) covered ? My mom has Medicare and supplemental .
I know it is a long shot -
Thanks !

JulietteBee

So sorry you are here because of mom's new diagnosis. I was in the same situation very recently. Finding this group was my windfall.

My DM was officially diagnosed in December. An MRI done 2 weeks ago identified her specific type, "Vascular Dementia."

Mom has a Medicare Advantage plan. They will not provide anyone to do housework. IF she is hospitalized for any chronic conditions, having a duration greater than 3 days, they will authorize in-home PT and home health nurses for med management. I was told that if she was unable to do her own ADLs after a hospital stay, she could be afforded a home health aide. I could only ask them to transport her to appointments or fix a small meal. They would not mop, vacuum, dust, etc, but would clean up after mom's bath or lunch. Thankfully, my mom is totally independent as of this time.

ARIL

You can read about Medicare and in-home assistance here:

https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/home-health-services

There is a link on the page with state-by-state details, and the following list also appears (copied directly):

“Medicare doesn't pay for:

• 24-hour-a-day care at your home
• Home meal delivery
• Homemaker services (like shopping and cleaning) unrelated to your care plan
• Custodial or personal care that helps you with daily living activities (like bathing, dressing, or using the bathroom), when this is the only care you need”

Wishing you well in navigating this tough journey. There’s lots of support available in this forum!

H1235

Welcome. Most communities have a local commission on aging. That might be a good place to start. Have you seen a lawyer yet. You will want a durable power of attorney, medical durable power of attorney, a living will ( an end of life plan) and a will. These are important and should not be put off. I would also talk with the lawyer about her finances. Will she have enough money for assisted living? Will she need to apply for Medicaid? How can assets be protected? I have attached a staging tool that is helpful and a good article about dementia.

DBAT.pdf

understanding-the-dementia-experience.pdf