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.  

 

Savoring Independence: How Meal Prep Services Empower Seniors in Allentown

Meal Preparation Services

Older adults often have trouble in preparing their meals. They may have mobility issues that make it challenging to work in the kitchen, or they may have cognitive conditions that interfere with their ability to make healthy meals. AmeriBest caregivers can help. We can assist seniors in preparing nutritious dishes that help them achieve higher levels of physical and mental health. Read on to learn more about how meal prep services in Allentown.

Local Meal Prep Assistance in Allentown, PA

Seniors are often vulnerable, low-income, and many are disabled. However, there is hope. They face daily challenges meeting basic needs. 

However, amidst these difficulties, there is hope. Local services offer a lifeline by providing affordable meals, ensuring our beloved elders have access to nourishment and support. They come together to ensure every senior goes hungry and feels remembered.

For example, Allentown, PA, offers several food banks. These non-profit organizations distribute food to low-income people at soup kitchens and food pantries. The city also provides a Meals on Wheels program that delivers food directly to seniors’ doors.

These programs are beneficial and can do even more to help seniors with comprehensive care from in-home aides. Additionally, many home caregiver agencies also offer programs that allow family members to get paid for caring for senior loved ones to make care more affordable.

What Does Meal Prep for Seniors in Allentown Entail?

Both family and professional caregivers can assist with meal prep, which may include:

  • Mixing ingredients
  • Heating things in the stove or microwave
  • Plating and serving food
  • Storing uneaten food

They may also provide services that are related to home care meal preparation, such as:

· Grocery shopping: Caregivers can provide transportation and accompany seniors on grocery shopping trips to ensure they get the healthy items they require

· Feeding Assistance: In-home aides offer feeding assistance to seniors who are unable to feed themselves

· Clean Up: Aides can wash dishes and wipe down surfaces after meals to ensure the home is clean.

Why are Meal Preparation Services for Seniors Important?

  • Ensures They Eat Regularly: Many seniors need to remember to eat or follow an irregular eating schedule. Caregivers maintain a regular eating schedule that benefits physical and mental health.
  • They Eat Healthy: When caregivers oversee meal preparation for seniors, they ensure they eat healthy foods and follow doctor recommendations.
  • Improves Physical and Mental Health: Home care meal preparation means seniors eat nutritious food that benefits physical health. They also feel cared for. They maintain a regular eating schedule that provides a sense of comfort and minimizes anxiety and depression.
  • Minimizes Accidents: Seniors are more likely to become injured in the kitchen. They can cut or burn themselves or trip and fall over items. 

 

Meal Preparation Services

 

AmeriBest Offers Meal Prep Help for Seniors in Allentown

AmeriBest provides meal prep for seniors in Allentown and so much more. We also help with housekeeping, shopping, laundry, self-care medication reminders, and appointment scheduling. Our caring and compassionate aides provide companionship to decrease feelings of depression and anxiety.

Family caregivers can get paid for caregiving with AmeriBest. We offer competitive pay and benefits, a supportive environment, and an opportunity to learn valuable career skills. We give you the tools you need to provide a high level of care.

Contact us to learn how we can ensure your loved one enjoys optimal physical and mental health.

 

A Day in the Life of a Personal Care Assistant in Philadelphia

Personal Care Assistant

Are you thinking of getting a personal care aide for your loved one? If so, you may want to know how the caregiver will ensure your loved one’s health and safety. This article will offer a fly-on-the-wall view of the day in the life of a personal care assistant in Philadelphia so you know what to expect.

What is a Day in the Life of a Personal Care Assistant in Philadelphia Like?

The Aide Arrives at Your Loved One’s Residence

Most personal care assistant services will allow you to customize hours to suit your needs. The aide can arrive in the evenings to take over for caregivers who need assistance during the day. They can also schedule daytime visits to cover regular work schedules. Some will care for your loved one throughout the day.

You can even work out a system to provide access to the home so you don’t need to be there when they arrive.

The Aide Starts the Day

A caregiver can create a daily or weekly schedule to offer your loved one comfort and stability. For example, they may know that Friday is a grocery shopping day. Or they may have Mondays reserved for doctor’s appointments.

Caregivers will work out a schedule to ensure necessary tasks are completed. They can remember functions that their clients may forget. They can provide transportation to ensure loved ones arrive at their destinations.  

Regular Tasks

Every day may be different, but many tasks are performed with regularity. They include:

· Medication Reminders: Caregivers will ensure your loved one takes their medication on time to maintain their treatment plans.

· Mealtimes: A personal care aide will assist with meal preparation and feeding. They will ensure your loved one eats healthy meals each day.

· Self-Care: Home aides can assist with self-care like bathing, dressing, and hair-styling.

Companionship

Caregivers don’t only focus on necessary tasks. They ensure your loved one gets much-needed companionship. 

They engage them in hobbies, talk, and read to them. They teach them how to use social media so they can stay in touch with families and friends. They can also provide transportation to and from social functions.

The Aide Leaves Your Home

The aide leaves your home at the end of the day. If you cannot be there when they leave, they can lock up to ensure your loved one is safe.

 

Personal Care Assistant

 

AmeriBest Will Help You Find the Ideal Personal Care Assistant in Philadelphia

AmeriBest is a reputable provider of in-home care services in Philadelphia, PA. Our experienced staff offers various services, including medication reminders, transportation, medication reminders, meal preparation, and self-care assistance. We empower seniors by helping them lead more independent lifestyles.

We also make care more affordable by providing training so loved ones can get paid to care for their elderly relatives. We offer benefits, competitive pay, and a supportive environment. Our services will take the stress off your shoulders.

Contact us to learn more about our Philadelphia personal care assistant services.  

 

A Breath of Fresh Air: The Impact of Regular House Cleaning on Seniors’ Well-Being in Harrisburg

In-home care encompasses various services. Most caregivers provide light house cleaning for their clients. They will dust, mop, and vacuum to ensure clients enjoy a pleasant living environment.

However, house cleaning services for seniors do much more than improve the household environment. They can reduce stress and anxiety, minimize disease risk, and eliminate trip and fall hazards. They can boost clients’ quality of life. 

AmeriBest’s services include companionship, errands, and light house cleaning for senior Harrisburg residents. Read on to learn what we have to offer.

What are the Benefits of House Cleaning for Seniors in Harrisburg?

Reduces the Risk of Illness

Housecleaning with antibacterial products reduces the spread of germs. It decreases the risk of infections and allergies that can negatively impact senior health. It also prevents them from cleaning and possibly aggravating existing conditions.

Minimized Trip and Fall Risks

Seniors are prone to falling. Most caregivers will look around the home to identify and eliminate fall risks. However, cleaning will allow them to find less obvious risks. They can remove obstacles and keep their clients safe.

Improves Mental Health

Many seniors suffer from mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and loneliness. An unclean household can worsen mental health issues. Seniors may become depressed by a dingy atmosphere or experience anxiety due to clutter.

A caregiver will make the home bright and shiny. They will remove clutter to promote a soothing environment. 

Caregivers also provide companionship to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. They become like family to their clients. The connection they forge solves various mental health issues. 

Better Sleep Quality

Seniors often have difficulty sleeping at night. A soothing environment that minimizes health issues will promote more restful sleep. Improved sleep quality is conducive to high levels of mental and physical health.

Other Services

Caregivers do so much more than housecleaning. They also provide the following services:

· Transportation: Caregivers provide transportation for clients. They can take them to doctor’s appointments, help them run errands, and accompany them on social visits.

· Meal Prep: Home aides can assist with meal prep. They will ensure seniors eat healthy meals regularly.

· Companionship: Caregivers will talk to seniors, listen to their stories, and help them engage in hobbies so they enjoy a higher level of mental health.

· Pet Care: Many seniors have pet companions, but some cannot fully care for their pets. In-home aides can lend a helping hand.

· Self-Care Assistance: Aides can help with self-care tasks like bathing, haircare, and bathroom trips.

House Cleaning for Seniors

AmeriBest Can Assist with House Cleaning for Seniors in Harrisburg

Spring is right around the corner. It’s the perfect time to think about senior home cleaning. AmeriBest will ensure your loved one’s home stays neat and germ-free.

We provide various services that improve physical and mental health. We offer companionship, meal preparation, transportation, self-care assistance, and more. We also train family members so they can get paid to care for elderly relatives.

Contact us to learn more about our cleaning services for the elderly and the many ways we can improve your loved one’s quality of life.

 

How to Get Care and Help at Home in Philadelphia, PA

Help at Home

Finding the right help at home care in Philadelphia, PA, is pivotal in enhancing the quality of life for individuals needing support. Navigating the options for home care can seem overwhelming, but understanding your choices and knowing where to look can make a significant difference. This is true whether the need is for elderly care, assistance for individuals with disabilities, or support during recovery after hospitalization. In Philadelphia, suitable and compassionate home care services are readily accessible to meet these diverse needs.

Identifying Your Home Care Needs

Understanding the specific needs of the individual requiring care is the first step in finding the right help for you and your loved one’s home care needs. This process involves an evaluation of both medical and non-medical requirements.

  • Medical Needs: For those with medical conditions or disabilities, it’s important to determine the level of medical care required. This can range from medication management and wound care to more complex medical procedures.
  • Daily Living Assistance: Assessing the need for assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and mobility is essential.
  • Emotional and Social Support: Consider the emotional and social needs, such as companionship, engagement in activities, and support for mental well-being.
  • Specialized Care Needs: If the individual has conditions like Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, specialized care that caters to these needs is crucial.
  • Safety and Accessibility: Evaluating the home environment for safety and accessibility and making necessary modifications to accommodate mobility issues or other physical limitations.

By thoroughly assessing these areas, families and caregivers can better understand the scope of care needed, leading to more effective and personalized home care solutions.

Exploring Home Care Services

When exploring home care services in Philadelphia, it’s important to consider the diverse range of options available to cater to individual needs and preferences. These services can broadly be categorized into:

  • Non-medical Home Care: This includes assistance with daily activities like cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene, and shopping. Ideal for individuals who need support with routine tasks but don’t require medical care.
  • Skilled Nursing Care: For those requiring medical attention at home, skilled nursing services offer care from licensed nurses. This includes wound care, administering medication, and monitoring health conditions.
  • Therapy Services: Home-based therapy services such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy help individuals recover or maintain their functional abilities.
  • Specialized Care Services: Tailored to specific conditions like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, these services provide specialized care focusing on the unique needs of the individual.
  • Respite Care: Offering temporary relief to family caregivers, respite care services ensure the individual receives professional care while giving family members a much-needed break.

Each of these services is designed to maintain the individual’s comfort and dignity while providing essential care. It’s crucial to assess the level of care needed and to choose a provider that aligns with these requirements. Additionally, considering the caregiver’s experience, training, and compatibility with the care recipient can lead to a more successful and satisfying home care experience.

Understanding Funding and Insurance Coverage

Funding for home care can come from various sources, including private insurance, Medicaid, or out-of-pocket payments. It’s important to understand what your insurance covers and what additional resources might be available.

  • Medicare and Medicaid: These federal programs can provide coverage for certain in-home care services, especially for those with limited income and resources. It’s important to understand the specific types of care covered under each program.
  • Local Assistance Programs: Pennsylvania offers a wide array of local programs and non-profit organizations that provide financial aid or subsidized home care services for eligible individuals. These programs often cater to specific groups, such as low-income seniors or individuals with certain medical conditions.
  • Veterans Benefits: Veterans and their spouses may be eligible for benefits that can help cover the cost of in-home care. The Veterans Administration offers various programs, such as Aid and Attendance, which can be used to pay for home care services.
  • Private Pay: Some individuals may choose to pay out of pocket for home care services. This option offers the most flexibility in choosing providers and services but requires financial planning.
  • Long-term Care Insurance: If you have a long-term care insurance policy, it may cover a portion of in-home care costs. Review your policy’s terms to understand the extent of coverage and any limitations.
  • Sliding Scale Fees: Some home care agencies in Philadelphia offer sliding scale fees based on income, making services more affordable for those with lower incomes.

Understanding the nuances of these funding sources can significantly impact the affordability and accessibility of in-home care services in Philadelphia. When exploring these options, AmeriBest can help, offering guidance and helping you navigate the journey of caregiving. 

Choosing the Right Home Care Provider

In selecting a home care provider in Philadelphia, consider a few important factors. Look into the provider’s community reputation by checking their history and client feedback. The qualifications and training of the caregiving staff are also relevant for ensuring adequate care.

It’s also useful to check the variety of services the provider offers to match them with the care recipient’s needs. Providers knowledgeable about Philadelphia’s specific cultural and community aspects might create a more relatable care environment. This aspect of cultural awareness is beneficial in making care recipients feel more comfortable and respected at home.

Help at Home

Connect With Trusted Help at Home Care in Philadelphia, PA

Choosing the right help with home care is a significant step towards ensuring comfort and enhanced well-being for yourself or your loved ones. AmeriBest Home Care focuses on delivering high-quality care, customized to suit the diverse and individual requirements of each person. Our services are designed not only to meet physical health needs but also to support the emotional well-being of our clients.

If you are considering help at home care in Philadelphia that is both compassionate and professional, AmeriBest Home Care is here to assist you. We are committed to guiding you through the process of home care, offering both our expertise and heartfelt care to ensure the best possible experience for you and your family. Our team is ready to provide support and answer any questions you may have about our services. Call us today at 1-800-HOMECARE to get started!

 

What home health care is offered to seniors and the disabled in Pennsylvania?

What home health care is offered to seniors and the disabled in Pennsylvania?

Home health care in Pennsylvania is designed to help seniors and people with disabilities live independently and stay in their own homes as long as possible. With home health care, you’ll receive the care you require while having the convenience of remaining in your own home. 

What is Home Health Care in Pennsylvania?

Home health care encompasses several different services, from primary care to skilled nursing. The benefit of choosing home care is that statistically, individuals who receive this kind of care are 5-15% less likely to enter a nursing home or a hospital.

The first step in finding home health care is understanding the available services. Home health care often serves as a way to provide skilled care after a hospitalization, injury, or illness. However, home health care can also be used to help seniors and the disabled continue to maintain their self-sufficiency. 

Home health care can be divided into two main categories: medical and non-medical. The services offered vary within each of these categories. Depending upon your situation, you may need one or the other, or both types of home care. 

Please note: AmeriBest is a non-skilled home care services provider, but we’ll be with you every step of the way, for hours a day, if needed and prescribed by your physician, instead of checking in on you once in a while. Call us at 1800-HOMECARE and ask about the services available!

Medical Home Health Care

Medical home health care, also referred to as skilled home health, is often required after hospitalization or an illness. Types of services offered under the umbrella of medical home health care include: 

  • Skilled Nursing
  • Physical therapy
  • Assistance with medical equipment
  • Wound care for surgical wounds or pressure wounds
  • Injections
  • Intravenous medications
  • Medical oversight of an unstable condition
  • Occupational therapy
  • Speech therapy

To get medical home health care, you’ll need the individual’s health care provider to provide orders for services. Your medical home health care team will work directly with the health care provider to keep them up to date on your progress.  

Non-Medical Home Health Care

Non-medical home health care provides a broader level of service that helps provide assistance to help maintain self-sufficiency. Receiving non-medical home care without a doctor’s order will be an out-of-pocket expense. If you need insurance to pay (or even partially pay), you will need to get a doctor’s order to receive non-medical home health care in Pennsylvania. 

Care can be daily for several hours to just a few hours a week, depending on an individual’s needs. Services provided with non-medical home health care include: 

  • Light housekeeping
  • Meal preparation
  • Laundry
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Shopping
  • Companionship
  • Medication reminders
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Coordinating health transportation and care, and more.

Caregivers can work with an individual to maintain the hygiene and safety of their space and make sure individuals are eating properly and taking their medications according to the doctor’s orders. Non-medical home care is an appealing option for seniors and people with disabilities who want to remain in their own homes rather than move to a skilled nursing facility and don’t necessarily need skilled nursing services.

What home health care is offered to seniors and the disabled in Pennsylvania?

Choosing the Right Home Health Care in Pennsylvania for You

When choosing the right home health care for you and your loved ones, you want a team that is qualified to meet your needs and dedicated to providing the best care possible. AmeriBest’s sole focus is helping seniors and people with disabilities in Pennsylvania maintain as much independence as possible by providing non-medical home care from reliable caregivers.

With multiple programs and services available, the AmeriBest Team can help walk you through what’s available to help your loved ones get the right kind of care that will help foster their self-sufficiency and independence. Empower your loved one’s well-being – contact us today to discuss our available services and get paired with one of our compassionate caregivers.  

 

How to Become a Personal Care Assistant?

Caregivers Philadelphia PA

Becoming a personal care assistant, sometimes known as a personal care attendant, is a rewarding career path filled with opportunities to make a real difference in someone’s life. Personal care assistants provide essential help to people with varying degrees of physical illnesses and health-related responsibilities.

This could be within the comfort of their home, nursing homes, residential care facilities or even adult day care centers. If you’re considering this career path and wondering how to become a personal care assistant or how much you can make, read on.

Understanding Personal Care Assistant Jobs

Personal care assistant jobs involve assisting individuals with their physical needs, personal hygiene, and, in some cases, light housekeeping duties. This typically involves working with elderly, disabled or chronically ill individuals who need help with everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing and meal preparation.

Furthermore, personal care assistants may also provide some level of companionship to those in their care, offering conversation and emotional support. They often work in a client’s home but can also work in institutions like residential care facilities. The daily tasks can be physically challenging and emotionally demanding but can also be rewarding.

The Role And Responsibilities of PCA

1. Personal Care

Personal Care Assistants, a key component of the Healthcare Industry, perform a variety of essential tasks. Their role includes everything from helping clients with personal grooming activities such as bathing and dressing to preparing meals—always keeping dietary restrictions in mind – and assisting with medication reminders. Their presence ensures that individual needs are met, making them a pivotal part of personal care.

2. Mobility Assistance

PCAs, working within the scope of daily living and personal care assistance, may often need to assist individuals with mobility issues. This can involve helping them move around the house, aiding them to get in and out of bed, or accompanying them outside for ambulatory exercises, walks, or medical appointments. Their role is critical in ensuring the everyday mobility needs of those they care for are met in a safe and secure manner.

3. Health Monitoring

Another critical role of a PCA’s basic care is monitoring the client’s health by checking vital signs, observing any changes in behavior or health status, and communicating these findings promptly to the health care provider or family.

4. Household Chores

To make the client’s living space comfortable and safe, PCAs often perform light household duties. This may include cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping, and even pet care if necessary.

5. Emotional Support

A critical but often overlooked aspect of a PCA’s job is providing emotional support. By building a strong, trusting relationship with clients, PCAs can provide much-needed companionship to those they care for.

6. Recreational Activities

To improve the client’s quality of life, PCAs can assist with or organize recreational activities. These activities may vary from reading, games, gardening, or even accompanying the client to social gatherings.

7. Medication Management

While PCAs are not typically authorized to administer medication, they can help remind clients when it’s time to take their prescribed medication and report any side effects or concerns to the supervising healthcare professional.

8. Care Plan Execution

PCAs follow a personalized medical care plan that a healthcare professional typically develops. The PCA assists in implementing this care plan and regularly updates it according to changes in the client’s condition or preferences.

9. Communication

A PCA often acts as a liaison between the individual they are caring for and their family, healthcare professionals, or nursing assistants. They communicate important updates, changes, or needs that might require professional medical attention.

Personal Care Assistant

What Are the Personal Care Assistant Requirements?

Education

Typically, the minimum education level required is a high school diploma or equivalent. Some states or care facilities, however, may need candidates to have completed certain healthcare-related coursework.

Training

Acquiring the necessary skills to become a personal care assistant often involves basic training. Certain jobs might only demand on-the-job training, but many prospective employers favor those candidates who have undergone formal training. Formal training typically includes understanding basic nutrition, the process of aging, infection control, and providing long-term care.

Once you’ve finished your basic and formal training, make sure to highlight these experiences on your Personal Care Assistant resume.

Certification

If you’re wondering how to become a PCA, some positions may require you to earn a certification. This often involves passing a competency exam, which assesses your ability to provide adequate care and assist with daily activities.

Health Exams

Several states mandate health exams or screenings not only to confirm that the assistant is free of communicable diseases but also to check for any chronic illnesses. These mandatory screenings could impact job prospects for some individuals, especially in sectors requiring direct, frequent interaction with other people.

Regardless of the results, it’s important for all workplaces to adhere to universal precautions to safeguard everyone’s health and wellness.

Background Check

As you will be working closely with individuals who may be vulnerable, companies will typically perform a thorough background check.

Skills

The average personal care assistant needs a variety of technical skills as well as soft skills. They need to be caring, patient, and understanding. Good communication and problem-solving skills are also a must. In some cases, being able to cook or perform household tasks on top of other personal care assistant duties will be requested.

Experience

Gaining relevant experience is a vital step on how to become a personal care assistant. Although it may not always be a prerequisite, some providers show a preference for experience in a related field. This could involve acquiring basic training in direct care, honing caring skills while looking after children, attending to elderly individuals, or assisting those with disabilities.

These experiences in direct care can provide a good foundation on how to become a personal care assistant, as it often relates to handling day-to-day tasks effectively and providing care to patients in a dedicated and compassionate manner.

How Much Does a Personal Care Assistant Make?

The income of a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) can greatly vary and is determined by several factors.

These factors include:

  • Education And Training Standards. Although only a high school diploma or equivalent is generally required, further education, training, or certification can increase your value in the job market and, consequently, your potential earnings.
  • Experience. Like many other professions, experience plays a substantial role in determining a personal assistant’s salary. Assistants with several years of experience, particularly those who specialize in caring for individuals with specific needs, are likely to earn more than newcomers to the field.
  • Size and Setting of the Employer. Personal care assistants who work in large, urban hospitals or long-term care facilities usually receive higher compensation compared to those working in smaller, rural facilities or providing in-home personal care tasks.
  • Location. The region or state where you are working can significantly influence your salary. Typically, states with a high cost of living, like New York or California, pay higher wages compared to states with a lower cost of living.
  • Specialization. PCAs providing specialized care for patients with severe illnesses and disabilities, or those demanding a higher level of skill or knowledge, tend to make a higher wage.
  • Private Clients. Assisting private clients in their own living facilities often leads to higher earnings. Some families choose to hire a PCA privately rather than utilize an agency, and this can result in a higher wage, albeit without the benefits that come with being employed by an agency.

Unlock Your Career In Personal Care Now at AmeriBest Home Care

Being a personal care assistant is undoubtedly a demanding job that requires a good blend of technical and interpersonal skills. However, helping someone maintain their independence and improve their quality of life makes this career incredibly rewarding. No two days are the same in personal care assistant roles, which adds to its appeal for those who strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others each day.

The rewarding nature of this job is hard to match. Beyond providing professional support, you eventually become a critical part of someone’s life. The job requires empathy, resilience, and patience, but the personal satisfaction and benefits you receive can be immense.

If you’re considering this career path and are looking for guidance on providing personal care services, we’re here to help. Whether it’s information on PCA job duties, skills, or employment requirements, we can guide you on the right path. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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

Right Philadelphia Home Care Agency

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, it can be difficult to find the agency best suited to your loved one’s needs. 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.

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.  

 

Unlocking the Benefits: Understanding Medicare Coverage for Home Care in Philadelphia

Medicare Coverage for Home Care in Philadelphia

When your loved one needs more excellent care, finding a way to care for them at home can be the most comfortable option. Many times, home care is also more affordable than enrolling your loved ones in a long-term care facility. While more affordable, it still can place a financial burden upon the individual who needs care and the caregiver. Luckily, Medicare in Philadelphia, PA, offers coverage for these services to ensure equal access to care for all!

Medicare offers a variety of programs that cover home care for Philadelphians. AmeriBest Home Care Philadelphia wants to help you understand the available programs and eligibility for home care services. 

Original Medicare

If you are already eligible for Medicare Part A, Medicare Part B, or a combination of the two, then specific home health services are available in the case that you require part-time skilled nursing and have trouble leaving home or that leaving home is not recommended, given the individual’s condition. 

Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, offers more flexibility in terms of home health services in Philadelphia. Because Medicare Advantage is issued through approved private insurance companies, available services will vary based on the plan. Call your plan provider to determine what home health services are available to you.  

Medicare Home Care Services

Medicare in Philadelphia, PA, covers home health care services that are deemed reasonable and necessary based on the individual’s diagnosis. Your provider will determine the care required. Included services may include: 

  • Intermittent skilled nursing care
  • Physical therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Home health aide services 
  • Personal care
  • Social services
  • Medical supplies

While your provider will make the original determination of what should be included in your care plan, your home health agency will perform an initial assessment to determine if any adjustments are needed. The home health agency you work with will routinely assess the individual’s needs and communicate any changes in their condition to the provider. 

Medicare Home Care Eligibility

While you may be qualified for Medicare, there are specific criteria for receiving home health benefits. Most importantly, your health provider certifies that you need home health services as part of your care plan. Other eligibility requirements include: 

  • A need for part-time skilled nursing, physical therapy, and/or home health aide services
  • The use of a Medicare-certified home health agency 
  • Your provider certifies that you are homebound
  • A face-to-face appointment with the individual receiving care within a predetermined time frame. 

AmeriBest Home Care - 2021 Resolutions for Seniors and Their Caregivers

Certified Medicare Home Care

To receive home care services from Medicare in Philadelphia, PA, you will need to work with a home health agency that is Medicare-certified. 

AmeriBest Home Care Philadelphia is a high-quality, non-skilled, Medicare-certified home care service working with families in the Greater Philadelphia area. We work with many insurance companies, including Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. 

Our staff is trained to help your loved one feel comfortable at home despite any long-term conditions or disabilities. Contact us to learn more about the home care services we offer and get the care and support that you need and deserve.