Navigating the Options: How to Choose the Right Philadelphia Home Care Agency

How to Get an In-Home Caregiver in Harrisburg, PA

When it comes time to get additional care for your loved one, you want to choose a Philadelphia home care agency that offers the very best. But without a reference point, finding the agency best suited to your loved one’s needs can be difficult. This article will discuss what to look for in a home care provider so you can make the best choice for your loved one.

What to Look for in a Philadelphia Home Care Agency

Service Options

Families must ensure the agency they choose is suited to their loved one’s needs. Some seniors require basic care, such as meal preparation, cleaning, and mobility assistance.

Others have more advanced needs for medical conditions. They may require vital sign monitoring, medicine administration, and other types of specialized care.

Find out what services the agency offers to ensure they provide the care your loved one requires.

Affordability

Affordability is not only about the rates the agency charges. Agencies can offer other services that make care more affordable.

For example, they may work with Medicaid to provide government-funded services. They may even train family members so they can get paid to care for loved ones.

Families should also look for agencies that accept their insurance and offer private pay plans that allow relatives to split the bill.

Skilled Workers

Find out about caregiver skill level. Do the aides receive ongoing training? Are they required to hold a certification to perform certain tasks?

A skilled caregiver is more likely to provide your loved one with the care and attention they require.

Referrals, Reviews, and Recommendations

Modern technology makes it possible to look online and learn about the level of service a Philadelphia home care agency provides. Research reviews and customer ratings. Determine if you feel the agency will be the right fit for your loved one.

Ask friends and family if they have an agency they would recommend. They may provide a trusted opinion.

You can also ask the agency if they can put you in touch with past and current clients. They will provide insight into the agency’s quality of service.

Caring, Compassionate Caregivers

It can be difficult to determine whether caregivers are caring and compassionate until you work with them. However, if you meet with the agency and staff, you will get an idea of their level of empathy and understanding. Your gut will tell you whether they will provide the loving care your senior relative deserves.

 

Home Care Assistance in Harrisburg, PA

 

AmeriBest is a Preferred Philadelphia Home Care Agency

You can spend hours, days, or weeks navigating your home care options or save yourself time by choosing AmeriBest first. AmeriBest has been rated one of Pennsylvania’s top five home care agencies. We take a patient-centric approach ensuring each client receives the personalized care they deserve.

We make care more affordable by allowing family members to get paid for caregiving. We offer competitive pay and an impressive benefits package. Caregivers train in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.

Contact us for all your loved one’s home care needs.  

Training and Education: Essential Skills for Home Health Caregivers in Allentown, PA

Caregiving is a rewarding profession. Many caregivers take pride in knowing they are making a difference in another person’s life. They are improving their client’s physical and emotional health so they can enjoy higher states of well-being.

Additionally, family caregivers can train to get paid to care for a loved one, significantly reducing financial burdens.

If you are considering a caregiving career, you may wonder what training and education requirements are involved. Qualifications vary depending on the level of care you wish to provide. This article will give you an idea of what to expect if you want to become a home health caregiver in Allentown, PA.

Training and Educational Requirements for a Home Health Caregiver in Allentown, PA

A home health aide is recommended for patients who require ongoing medical care but do not have immediate health needs. They will help the patient with daily tasks like feeding and dressing. They may also offer medical assistance such as applying and removing artificial limbs, checking and changing wound dressings, ensuring patients follow their treatment plans, and applying skin remedies.

To become a home health caregiver in Allentown, PA, you must complete a 75-hour training course, which includes 16 hours of clinical instruction. You must also take a 12-hour continuing education course each year to maintain your license. Criminal background checks and child abuse clearances are also required.

Home health caregivers may advance their careers by obtaining a nurse aide certification. They can continue their education to become a qualified nurse.

The Pennsylvania Department of Education can help you find a local training program. Several home care agencies also offer training.

Other Options for Home Health Training

People who wish to enter the home care field may also consider these options:

·  Personal Aide/Caregiver: A personal aide assists with daily tasks. They must take an eight-hour course and pass an exam. They will learn communication best practices, emergency procedures, infection control, and other non-medical skills.

 ·  CNA: A certified nursing assistant (CNA) assists with daily living activities. They monitor vital signs, administer medications, and offer light medical assistance. They must take an 80-hour state-approved program and pass the Pennsylvania National Nurse Aide Assessment Program.

·  Nurse: A nurse performs many of the duties of a CNA but typically works in a hospital rather than a home environment. Nurses must earn a degree through an approved nursing program. They must also take three hours of board-approved child abuse recognition training and 30 hours of continuing education each year to retain their licenses.

AmeriBest Can Help You Become a Home Health Caregiver In Allentown, PA

AmeriBest offers training for family members who wish to get paid to care for their loved ones. We offer competitive pay and benefits, a supportive environment, and opportunities to advance in your career. We will help reduce the financial strain and stress of caring for a senior relative.

Contact us to learn more about our supportive services.

Understanding Eligibility for a Family Members in Harrisburg, PA

Home Health Care in Harrisburg, PA

Caregivers often face financial difficulties. They must take time off work to care for loved ones. If they seek professional assistance, out-of-pocket expenses will add up. The state of Pennsylvania offers a solution. Through the CDPAP program, you can get paid to care for family members in Harrisburg, PA. Read on to find out how it works.

Why Become a Caregiver for Your Love d One

·  Relieves the financial burden of caregiving: When caregiving becomes your career, you will no longer need to take time off work to care for your loved one. You will receive a paycheck for the care you provide.  

·  You know your loved one is in good hands: When you provide care, you know your loved one will always be looked after by a trusting aide.

How to Get Paid to Care for Family Members in Harrisburg, PA

Qualifications

A caregiver must meet the following qualifications to be eligible for the CDPAP program:

·  Must be at least 18 years of age

·  Must be a Pennsylvania resident

·  Must have completed caregiver training

·  Must have obtained necessary certifications.

Program Options

Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services Waivers

The HCBS waiver allows Medicaid recipients to appoint a caregiver of their choice. The waiver can also cover certain care expenses. Medicaid provides limited HCBS waivers, so applicants must apply promptly to qualify.

PDA 60+ Waiver

The PDA 60+ waiver is available for Medicaid recipients 60 and older with dementia, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and other types of cognitive issues. It allows family members to care for older relatives in familiar surroundings. Eligibility requirements can vary by county.

Pennsylvania Caregiver Support Program

This program provides financial reimbursement for family caregiver costs, including services and supplies. Caregivers are also provided access to resources for respite care and other services to avoid burnout. 

Families that qualify will be assigned a care manager who will evaluate the family’s needs and create a customized plan. Financial eligibility requirements apply.

PCAFC for Veteran Family Members

The PCAFC is available for veterans who sustained disabling injuries or illnesses in the line of duty. To be eligible, the veteran must require assistance with at least one daily living activity. 

The program provides a $2750 monthly stipend to cover care costs. It also provides caregivers access to training, counseling, and respite care.

Family Members in Harrisburg, PA

 

Work for a Home Care Agency

Working for a home care agency may be the most straightforward way to get paid to care for family members in Harrisburg, PA. The agency will determine your eligibility and provide the training you require. They will allow you to follow a new career path and reduce the financial burden of caregiving.

Many caregiver agencies offer training so you can get paid to care for a loved one, but AmeriBest stands out as a preferred provider. We offer competitive pay and benefits, consistent hours, and a supportive environment. Our ongoing training will help you establish yourself in the industry.

We also provide services for families that require professional caregivers. Our caring and compassionate aides offer various non-medical services. We will provide an easy process that puts your mind at ease.

Contact us to learn how you can get paid to care for family members in Harrisburg, PA.

Support Systems: Resources Available for Family Caregivers in Philadelphia, PA

Ameribest Caregiver in Philadelphia, PA

A caregiver’s job is not easy. Caregivers must deal with the emotional stress of caring for a loved one who is prone to health emergencies. They may need to take time off work, which leads to financial issues. Fortunately, several resources make a caregiver’s life easier. Programs are available throughout the state. Read on to learn more about how a family caregiver in Philadelphia, PA, can find the required help.

Resources for a Family Caregiver in Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia Support for the Aging

The Philadelphia Support for the Aging (PCA) offers various support options for family caregivers. They will assess your situation and match you with a state-run program suited to your family’s needs.

They may refer you to Community HealthChoices so you can work with a Managed Care Organization, or they may have you enter the OPTIONS program to receive care on a sliding scale. If you enter the OPTIONS program, a service coordinator will develop a customized plan that ensures your loved one is well cared for.

Pennsylvania Department of Aging

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging aids family members who act as primary caregivers to senior loved ones. Each caregiver is assigned a care manager who comes to the home to assess the family’s needs and works with them to develop a plan. They offer care management, education and training, home modifications, and other services.

CDPAP

The Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) pays family members to care for their loved ones. It also offers medical aid to people receiving care, helping relieve the financial strain of caregiving.

Many relatives also find caring for their loved ones to be a rewarding experience. They know their senior relative will receive quality care. It allows aging family members to grow older in the comfort of their homes.  

Reach Out for Help

A family caregiver in Philadelphia should reach out for help when they need it. They should not feel too proud to ask a friend or family member to take over when they need support. They may also hire a caregiver or turn to a friend for respite care.  

Care for Yourself

Caregivers must prioritize their health. Caregiving can be stressful, but you must prioritize eating healthy and exercising. Stress management exercises can also lighten the load.

A caregiver should also maintain social connections so they feel less isolated and are not prone to burnout. Ensure you have the time to meet with family and friends. Caregiver support groups can also be helpful.

Caregiver in Philadelphia, PA

AmeriBest Can Help A Family Caregiver in Philadelphia, PA

AmeriBest offers several options to help family caregivers. We offer opportunities for caregivers to get paid for caring for loved ones. We provide competitive pay and benefits, a supportive environment, and opportunities to build your future.

We also provide supportive services for families seeking care. Our caring and compassionate caregivers offer various nonmedical services. We will ensure your loved one receives the assistance they require.

Contact AmeriBest today for the support you need in your caregiving efforts.