Many people might think home health care is only available and provided in the home. But the scope of home health extends beyond the home environment. Typically covered by Medicare, supplemental insurance, or private funds, a home health care order may be prescribed by a physician for physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, or a skilled need, including temporary assistance with life skills. Home health care is a very common third-party provider utilized in many senior living environments, including Assisted Livings.

Another misconception about home health providers is that they will provide all the 24-hour care needed to address the issues affecting a parent or loved one, such as the early stages of cognition decline, health issues, or natural age progression.

Although home health services can provide much support in these areas, you will find that in most cases, a home health provider only sees your parent for a limited amount of time. The number of days and times may vary considerably based on a number of factors; Home Health providers do not offer 24-hour care.

Seniors who remain in their homes with cognition and health problems may need more than just a limited amount of time each week to support their care needs. They also face little socialization and become isolated. Assisted Living communities offer several different levels of assistance as well as many opportunities for social interaction.

A home health professional and a primary physician typically determine the length of home health services. If a person is already receiving a therapy service at home, they may continue this service from their home health provider at their Assisted Living community.  This continuation allows for a successful transition and continuum of care.

Upon admission, Assisted Livings often suggest or may obtain an order for home health from the resident’s primary physician, with family and resident approval, to assist in the transition from home.

One suggestion to see how this might work for your family is to consider a respite stay for your loved one at an Assisted Living and ask about including your loved one’s home health provider to continue their service during that stay.

Assisted Living communities provide many levels of care and services while having oversight 24 hours a day and find the importance of the services provided by Home Health Services when necessary.  Assisted Livings are typically flexible and provide coordination with the team of professionals that is best for each resident.