KNOWLEDGE Matters!

Many families struggle when it becomes apparent that their elderly loved one is needing more care in the home than they as a family can personally provide. The topic of "Senior Care" is so broad, and there are so many different voices communicating a variety of messages regarding the care for your loved one.

HOSPICE CARE
Most individuals are very family with "Hospice" care. This kind of care, referred to as palliative care, is typically provided to individuals with a life expectancy of six months or less. This care can be provided as inpatient, outpatient or respite care. The type of care involves symptom management, emotional support, spiritual support and psychosocial intervention. They typically provide assistance with medications, durable medical equipment, pastoral care and limited personal care needs. 
PAYOR SOURCE FOR HOSPICE: Medicare

HOME HEALTH CARE
Medical home health agencies are usually brought in for care following a hospital stay or written orders from a physician. Their duties cover a broad spectrum of areas of care. They might include occupational or physical therapy, speech therapy and skilled nursing. At times they will also provide for a short period of time personal care assistance with bathing, dressing and eating. 
PAYOR SOURCES FOR HOME HEALTH: Medicare 

PRIVATE DUTY CARE
Private duty care is typically the "first stop on the bus" type of care. THIS IS PRIMARILY WHAT THE MEMBERS OF THE OPHC PROVIDE! This care typically is non-medical in nature, and includes performing household duties like cooking, cleaning, laundry, medication reminders, shopping, transportation and companionship, just to name a few. It also tends to included limited personal care tasks. Among those would be things like bathing assistance, toileting assistance, dressing, ambulation (walking) assistance and help with transfers.
PAYOR SOURCES FOR PRIVATE DUTY: Private payment, Long-Term Care Insurance, Veteran's Benefits.

If you believe you or a loved one could benefit from the care of a qualified OPHC member agency, then check out our Membership Directory to find one of these excellent agencies in your area!

Page Cole
Visiting Angels of Tulsa
Visiting Angels of Bartlesville
Visiting Angels of SWOKC

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