Looking for a Personal Care Home in Harrisburg?

Happy woman, doctor and holding hands with senior patient in wheelchair, support or trust for healthcare at home. Medical nurse, caregiver or person with a disability smile for care or help at house

Deciding on a personal care home in Harrisburg can be a significant step towards a better quality of life for your loved ones. With so many options available, it’s crucial to know what sets each facility apart. This article will walk you through what personal care homes are, the factors to look for when choosing one, and the benefits they offer.

By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a home that ensures comfort, safety, and happiness for your family members.

What Are Personal Care Homes?

Personal care homes offer a warm and supportive environment where individuals receive assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. These homes are designed to provide a sense of community and personalized care for those who need a little extra help, ensuring each resident feels comfortable and valued.

With dedicated staff available around the clock, these facilities aim to enhance the quality of life for their residents in a compassionate and respectful setting.

Who Should Consider Personal Care Homes?

  • Older Adults Needing Assistance with Daily Activities. Personal care homes are ideal for older adults who need help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. These homes provide a safe and supportive environment so residents can maintain their dignity and independence.
  • Those Recovering From Surgery or Severe Illness. Recovering from a major surgery or illness can be challenging. Personal care homes offer professional assistance and support during the recovery period and closely monitor an individual’s health and well-being.
  • Individuals With Chronic Health Conditions. For those living with chronic health conditions like diabetes or heart disease, personal care homes offer consistent medical oversight and support. These homes have trained staff to help manage medication, monitor symptoms, and provide necessary treatments.
  • Seniors with Cognitive Impairments. If a loved one has dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, a personal care home can provide specialized care tailored to their unique needs. These homes ensure safety and offer activities that promote mental engagement and emotional well-being.
  • Those Who Feel Isolated and Need Social Interaction. Personal care homes are a good option for older adults feeling isolated or lonely. With a focus on community and social activities, these homes provide opportunities for meaningful interaction and the development of new friendships.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Personal Care Homes in Harrisburg

Reputation and Reviews

When seeking personal care homes in Harrisburg, start by researching the reputation and reviews of the facilities. Positive feedback from current or past residents and their families can provide a trustworthy glimpse into the quality of life and care options offered. Reviews on online platforms, testimonials, and recommendations from friends or healthcare providers can guide you toward reputable care homes.

Levels of Care and Services

Look into the various levels of care and personal care services provided. These may include independent living, assisted living, and memory care programs tailor-fitted to individual needs of residents. Verify if they offer additional services, such as daily activities, medical services, assistance with activities, and emergency situations, to support residents at different stages of life.

Monthly Costs

Understand the average cost and monthly costs involved in personal care homes. It’s crucial to factor in any additional fees for extra services or care types. Also, explore financial assistance options, such as long-term care insurance or social security benefits, to help with the cost of care homes and make informed decisions about affordability.

Qualified and Compassionate Staff

Check if the assisted living facility employs a team of experienced and compassionate caregivers. These professionals should be skilled in handling residents with dementia, offering memory care programs, and providing comprehensive care services. A compassionate care team can significantly enhance the well-being and satisfaction of residents.

Social and Recreational Activities

Check the availability of social events, an active event calendar, and daily activities that foster community connections among residents. Activities such as a meal with friends, a cookout with friends, or visits to nearby places like movie theaters can enrich daily living. Interaction and engagement are vital for cognitive health and overall happiness.

Health and Safety Measures

Evaluate the safety measures and health care services available at the personal care residence. This includes preventative care, transportation to appointments, and having a health care provider on-site or nearby medical centers. A safe environment with reliable access to medical appointments and services ensures residents receive necessary health care.

What Are the Benefits of Personal Care Homes?

  • Personalized Care and Attention. Personal care homes offer tailored care plans that meet the unique needs of each resident. This individualized attention ensures that all residents get the appropriate help they require without compromising their independence.
  • Comfortable and Safe Living Environment. These homes are designed to create a homely atmosphere while ensuring safety. Features like grab bars, emergency call systems, and secure settings make these environments exceptionally safe and comfortable for seniors.
  • Social Interaction and Engagement. Personal care homes provide numerous opportunities for social activities and group engagements. From game nights to exercise sessions, these activities help combat loneliness and keep residents mentally stimulated.
  • Professional Health Assistance. Residents have access to trained healthcare professionals who can manage their medications, monitor their health, and respond to emergencies promptly. This ensures that medical needs are never overlooked.
  • Peace of Mind for Families. Family members can rest assured knowing their loved ones are in good hands. The round-the-clock care and security in personal care homes offer peace of mind for families and allow them to focus on maintaining a meaningful relationship with their loved ones.
  • Nutritious Meals. Residents receive well-balanced, nutritious meals that cater to their dietary needs and preferences, which helps maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Cost-Effective Option. Personal care homes can be a more affordable alternative to other types of long-term care. They provide comprehensive services that can be more budget-friendly for families.

Secure Your Loved One’s Quality of Life With AmeriBest Home Care: Contact Us Today!

Finding the right personal care home in Harrisburg involves careful evaluation of each facility’s reputation, services, and staff competence. Evaluating these aspects, along with the facility’s safety measures and social activities, will help in making an informed decision. Understand the full scope of costs involved and explore available financial aids to ensure affordability. Prioritize the well-being of your loved ones by choosing a home that offers both excellent care and vibrant community life.

For those looking for a reputable provider of non-medical home care services, AmeriBest Home Care is a trusted choice. We are dedicated to delivering compassionate and customized care plans designed to meet the unique needs of each client. Our commitment to excellence and flexibility makes us a reliable choice for caregiving needs.

Reach out to AmeriBest to discuss how our tailored services can support you and your loved ones.

How to Become a Personal Care Assistant

Friendly home caregiver supporting an elderly lady

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.

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.

The Benefits of Personalized Home Care Assistance for Seniors in Allentown, PA

The Benefits of Personalized Home Care Assistance for Seniors in Allentown, PA

No two individuals age the same way, making it imperative that seniors receive tailored support plans designed to suit their unique needs. The benefits of personalized home care assistance for seniors include maintaining independence while receiving compassionate, specialized help. Personalized home care services are an excellent solution for older adults who wish to stay in their own homes. If you are exploring options for home care assistance in Allentown, PA, understanding the benefits of personalized home care assistance for seniors can help ensure your loved one gets the support they need.

 

Customized Care for Individual Needs 

Every senior has unique needs and goals, and their care should reflect that. Personalized home care focuses on meeting each individual’s specific needs and preferences. Whether it’s assistance with daily activities like bathing and dressing or support for managing chronic conditions, a customized plan ensures seniors receive the exact type and level of care they need. 

At AmeriBest Home Care, experienced caregivers can adjust their services based on your family member’s changing requirements. For example, a caregiver might initially help with light housekeeping and meal preparation but later provide mobility assistance or medication management, if necessary. Adaptability on the caregiver’s part allows seniors to age in place without unnecessary disruptions to their routines.

 

Promoting Independence and Comfort 

Home care can be a powerful tool for allowing seniors to remain in their homes, surrounded by familiarity and comfort. This setting can profoundly impact their mental and emotional well-being, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety.

Personalized care helps seniors maintain their independence by providing just the right amount of support. For instance, caregivers can assist with grocery shopping or transportation, often accompanying your family member instead of taking over the duty entirely. This is an excellent way for your senior loved one to stay actively involved in their community. This balance of assistance and independence ensures seniors feel capable and retain their dignity.

 

Improved Safety and Health 

Personalized home care prioritizes safety and health. In-home caregivers are trained to recognize potential hazards and implement strategies to prevent accidents, such as falls. For seniors with medical needs, caregivers can monitor health conditions, remind them to take medications and coordinate with healthcare professionals as needed.

At AmeriBest, home care services often include regular meetings with family members. This open communication ensures everyone’s needs are being met and heard and that the care plan can change as necessary, significantly improving your senior’s quality of life and providing peace of mind for their families.

 

Fostering Trust and Companionship 

One of the most valuable aspects of personalized home care is the strong bond that forms between seniors and their caregivers. Regular interactions with a dedicated caregiver build trust, comfort, and emotional connection. This companionship helps combat loneliness, a common issue among older adults and enhances their happiness.

For many families, knowing their loved one has a trusted caregiver provides reassurance. It alleviates the challenges of balancing caregiving responsibilities with work and personal commitments. AmeriBest even provides opportunities for family members to get paid to be caregivers and provides support systems to ensure everyone’s satisfaction. No one knows your loved one better than family, and spending this special time with them can strengthen your bond. 

 

Trust Ameribest for Home Care for Assistance in Allentown, PA

 

Trust Ameribest for Home Care for Assistance in Allentown, PA 

When it comes to finding reliable and compassionate home care assistance in Allentown, PA, Ameribest Home Care stands out as a trusted partner. Their personalized care plans are designed to meet the unique needs of each senior, ensuring they receive the highest level of support. From enhancing safety to fostering independence and emotional well-being, Ameribest’s dedicated team is committed to helping seniors live comfortably and confidently at home.

Insights from Allentown Home Care Experts: Navigating Depression and Anxiety in Seniors

Insights from Allentown Home Care Experts

As we get older, it’s common to experience various feelings. Coupled with changes in physical and mental health, these emotions can take a bigger toll on a senior’s quality of life than you may have guessed. Depression, anxiety, and loneliness are a few of the emotional concerns an elderly individual may struggle with. Reduced independence can play a role in these feelings. However, compassionate in-home caregiving and a senior’s family members can help overcome these struggles, allowing elderly individuals to lead a rich and fulfilling life. As experienced providers of home care in Allentown, PA, we’re familiar with depression and anxiety in seniors and ways to recognize and help manage these concerns. 

 

What Causes Anxiety and Depression in Seniors?

The American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry states that anxiety can be a common, yet often undiagnosed, illness for older adults. There are a few factors that can contribute to anxiety and depression in senior citizens. 

Reduced physical health and mobility are potential causes of worry. The inability to participate in normal activities and routines can lead to worries about how the person will be able to retain independence and enjoy life. These concerns can cause sadness, too. 

Similarly, loss and social isolation can also affect their mood, especially if the senior cannot partake in the things that once brought them joy. In cases where worries and sadness become severe, transforming into anxiety and depression, the individual’s physical health may be affected. Research has found that depression in seniors is linked to increased risk of illness and cardiac diseases. 

Although many of us understand that feelings like this are a normal part of such huge life changes and are nothing to be ashamed of, seniors may be reluctant to seek help or reach out to family members. Recognizing the signs of depression and anxiety becomes imperative.

 

What Are the Signs of Senior Depression and Anxiety? 

If you provide family care for your loved one, there are signs you should be aware of. Alternatively, if your relative is receiving home care through an agency like AmeriBest, you can check that their caregiver knows the signs of depression and anxiety and ask them to alert you if they become concerned. 

Signs of depression and anxiety in seniors can include: 

  • Physical symptoms. Physical health and mental health are strongly linked. Depression and anxiety may show up as fatigue, aches and pains, and changes in appetite. 
  • Behavior changes. While some changes in behavior are to be expected, watch out for significant shifts in your loved one’s actions. Such as not wanting to participate in hobbies or activities they once found enjoyable, social withdrawal, and changes in their sleep. 
  • Cognitive decline. Unfortunately, depression and anxiety can sometimes be misdiagnosed as cognitive decline. In seniors, depression may be wrongfully deemed dementia. Determining which condition may be affecting your relative is crucial to providing them with appropriate care and support. 

 

How to Navigate and Help Them Cope With These Feelings

Navigating depression and anxiety with a senior member of your family starts with compassionate communication. Letting your loved one know you are a safe person to whom they can communicate concerns is a beneficial first step. Together, you and their caregiver can create a supportive community where they feel comfortable asking for help or speaking about their emotions. 

Once it’s established that a senior is dealing with depression or anxiety, seek help. Sometimes, professional counseling services are needed. Often, there are mental health professionals who specialize in senior care and can help your loved one cope with their feelings. 

Outside of visits to a mental health professional, family members and caregivers can create an environment at home that is conducive to reducing anxiety and sadness. Help your senior get regular physical activity, both inside and outside the home. Walking in the sunshine can be beneficial to their overall health. Encourage them to participate in fulfilling social activities, whether at their local community center or simply playing a board game with their personal care assistant. You can also provide mindfulness and relaxation techniques for when they feel overwhelmed or isolated, such as tai chi, deep breathing, or meditation. 

 

Insights from Allentown Home Care Experts

 

Choose Supportive and Compassionate Home Care in Allentown, PA 

At AmeriBest, we strongly value our seniors’ mental and physical well-being. As such, we provide resources for our staff and paid family caregivers so that they can recognize and address signs of depression and anxiety in elderly individuals. We strive to create a compassionate and caring environment that fosters communication. Our caregivers desire to help your elderly loved ones lead a rich and fulfilling life, free from stress, anxiety, and loneliness. Together, we can improve the quality of life for those in their golden years. Contact us to learn how you can get premiere home care for your loved one in Allentown, Harrisburg, or Philadelphia, PA. 

Senior Care Tips for Families in Allentown, PA

Senior Care Tips for Families in Allentown, PA

If your loved one receives family senior care in Allentown, PA, you may wonder how you can best support them and yourself as their caregiver. Providing support to elders is an important role that many family members are happy to fulfill, but it isn’t without challenges. If you’ve embraced an at-home family care position for your loved one, here are a few tips that help you give the most compassionate, quality care possible.

 

Tips for Caring for the Senior in Your Life   

Familial caregiving is such a gift. It allows your elderly or disabled loved one to receive the loving support they need within the comfort of their home. Agencies like AmeriBest Home Care are honored to come alongside family caregivers and provide them with the training and resources they need to excel as a family personal aid. 


Routine Assistance and Daily Care  

Your family member’s needs can vary, ranging from assistance with transportation to help with basic needs like dressing. It’s important to continually assess how much support your loved one requires. While you want to ensure they receive adequate care, especially regarding nutrition, hygiene, and medication management, giving them some autonomy is also crucial. Collaborating with your relative regarding things like meal planning or social activities can help them maintain their sense of independence. 


Companionship and Emotional Support  

Aside from assisting with daily routines, being there for companionship and emotional support is a valuable aspect of family caregiving. Emotional wellbeing is important for their overall health, so take time to check in with them about how they’re feeling. Keep your communication open and honest, showing patience and compassion when they express struggles or concerns. Your mental wellbeing as a personal aide is important too. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, connecting with family caregiver support groups who can listen and empathize can be a worthwhile activity. 


Reach Out for Support and Resources  

Aging and the need for care can take a toll on both caregivers and the individual receiving support. You may experience financial concerns, need professional support, or just want to connect with resources in your area. Fortunately, home care agencies like AmeriBest, and local coalitions on aging, such as your State’s Aging Services Department, are often a wealth of knowledge and resources for family caregivers. 


Financial Considerations and Legal Concerns  

While family caregiving is a wonderful option for most families, it’s important to have a plan in place for long-term care if and when the time comes. Budgeting, deciding advance care directives, and understanding your legal responsibilities should all be discussed before the need arises. An attorney or financial planner can help you get these items squared away so you can continue providing quality care to your loved one without the stress of future planning.

 

Caring for Yourself as a Caregiver  

Being a family caregiver is undoubtedly rewarding. Still, that doesn’t mean it is without challenges. Take some time for self-care and balance your responsibilities and wellbeing with the support duties given to your loved one. It’s essential to recognize when you’re becoming overwhelmed or stressed and seek support when you need it. Utilizing respite care or a personal aide through a home care agency can help give you a break while ensuring your relative receives the best care possible.

Senior Care Tips for Families

 

Let Us Help You with Senior Care in Allentown, PA

AmeriBest Home Care is a preferred agency for individuals seeking senior care in Allentown, PA. Not only do we support family caregivers with training, resources, and financial compensation, but we can also step in when needed. Our home care services staff are compassionate, skilled, and able to give you some respite. We are conveniently located in Allentown, Harrisburg, and Philadelphia to assist you with your senior care needs. 

Call us at 1-800-HOMECARE to learn more about how we can help.

Learn How to Get Paid to Take Care of Family in Allentown, PA

Are you wondering how to get paid to take care of family in Allentown, PA? It’s true that caring for a family member is a deeply personal and often rewarding responsibility. However, the financial aspects of caregiving can sometimes be challenging. Fortunately, in Allentown, PA, there are programs and resources available that allow family caregivers to receive compensation for the valuable work they do. 

Top Ways to Get Paid to Take Care of Family Allentown, PA

In this blog post, we’ll explore the options and steps you can take to get paid while taking care of your family member in Allentown.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Medicaid Programs


Medicaid, the joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income and resources, offers various programs that may provide compensation for family caregivers. 

In Pennsylvania, the Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) is a program that covers a range of home and community-based services. MLTSS allows eligible individuals to receive care in their homes, often provided by family members who then receive compensation. 

Eligibility Criteria for Medicaid and MLTSS 


To qualify for compensation through Medicaid programs, both the caregiver and the care recipient must meet certain eligibility criteria. Usually, the care recipient needs to require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and be financially eligible for Medicaid. The caregiver is typically required to be a family member, and some programs may necessitate formal certification or training.

Determining the Level of Care for Medicaid Programs


Medicaid programs usually assess the care recipient’s needs to determine the appropriate level of care required. This assessment helps in establishing the number of hours and the type of care that will be covered through the program. The caregiver’s role may involve assisting with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication management.

Seeking Professional Guidance for Medicaid

Medicaid programs can be challenging and complex. However, AmeriBest Home Care can help.  Call AmeriBest at 1-800-HOMECARE for assistance! We are happy to help and guide you through your caregiving journey.

 

Participating in Caregiver Support Programs

Like many other communities, Allentown has local organizations and support groups for caregivers. Joining these groups can be beneficial not only for emotional support but also for information on available resources. Some support programs may offer additional financial assistance or respite services to give caregivers a break. 

The state’s programs are constantly changing depending on funding. You’ll want to look for current programs that are accepting applications for compensation for caregiving services. 

How do you keep track of all that? You don’t have to if you join AmeriBest! We will help you navigate the caregiving journey with grace. You can get trained and employed, access our amazing benefits package, and make a difference in your community. Call 1800-HOMECARE and ask us how to get paid for caregiving!

Researching Other Financial Assistance Programs

In addition to Medicaid, other financial assistance programs available at both the state and federal levels should be explored. Programs like the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Veterans Aid and Attendance can provide financial support to eligible individuals.

Documenting Care for Compensation 

Keeping thorough records of the care provided is essential. Document the tasks performed, hours spent caregiving, and any significant changes in the care recipient’s condition. This documentation will be crucial during the application process and may be required for ongoing eligibility so you can get paid to take care of your family in Allentown, PA. 

Caring for a family member in Allentown, PA, can be both a labor of love and a financial challenge. However, with a thorough understanding of available programs, eligibility criteria, and proactive steps, you can navigate the system and potentially receive compensation for the caregiving services you provide. 

Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice and connect with local support groups to ensure you’re making the most of the resources available as a dedicated caregiver.

Discover the Exceptional Standard of Home Care at AmeriBest!

No matter if you’re in Philadelphia, Allentown, Harrisburg, or beyond, our team of compassionate and skilled professionals are at your service. Contact us. 

As your reliable ally in delivering top-notch senior care at home, reach out to AmeriBest Home Care today for further information.

 

Making the Most of Family Time with Personal Home Care Services in Allentown PA

personal home care services allentown pa

Families can bond and stay together longer with personal home care services in Allentown, PA. Read on to find out how to make the most of family time this winter, and how we can be of help!

Magic Moments

Here’s how personal home care services promote healthy family time:

Improve Mental Health: Seniors receiving home care are in a more positive mental space. Aides provide companionship, their company reduces feelings of anxiety and depression.

Boost Physical Wellness: Caregivers oversee their client’s physical health. They ensure that they eat a healthy diet and get some exercise. They provide medication reminders to keep them in line with their treatment plan. As a result, seniors are in better shape for family gatherings and beyond.

Family Members Stay Close: Families often place seniors in assisted living facilities far from their relatives. Older adults who get home care can stay close by, benefiting everybody!

Families are More Involved in Care Decisions: When seniors receive in-home care, families can be more involved in care-related decisions. They can work with their relatives to decide the best course of action. This process often brings families closer.

Families Can Provide Care Part Time: At times, families offer part-time care to their relatives, aiming to provide support, maintain connections, receive compensation for caregiving, and enhance outcomes for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Increases Independence: Home care promotes senior independence, fostering a sense of happiness in their familial surroundings. This independence, in turn, diminishes reliance on family members, alleviating strain on relationships.

Become a Caregiver to Strengthen the Bond

Some families choose to save money and provide family caregiving as needed. Allentown, PA residents who make this decision can enjoy more bonding moments with their relatives, but it can also cause issues as unpaid family caregivers are often stressed out. They may have to miss work to care for their loved ones, losing wages, benefits, and opportunities.

AmeriBest offers a solution. We provide opportunities for family members to get paid to care for their senior relatives. People who apply can receive competitive pay, bonuses, and flexible hours, take advantage of ongoing training opportunities, and more.

AmeriBest Offers High-Quality Personal Home Care Services in Allentown, PA

AmeriBest does more than offer opportunities to get paid for taking care of family. We also provide non-medical home care services. Our staff offers meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation assistance, medication reminders, and more. We improve your loved one’s well-being so you can enjoy more terrific family moments.

Contact us to learn more about our senior in-home care services in Allentown, PA. Discover how we can help bring your family together.

Personalized Care Plans: Tailoring Home Health Aide Services in Allentown

home health aide services allentown pa

Today’s care providers realize the importance of a personalized approach. Quality care keeps clients happy, healthy and families together. There are several things family caregivers can do to create and access efficient personalized care plans. This article will discuss the customized home health aide services Allentown, PA seniors prefer.

Creating a Personalized Care Plan with Home Health Aide Services in Allentown, PA

Family caregivers can download and fill out a care plan form from the CDC website. It requests the following information:

  • Personal information: This includes the client’s name, birth date, contact, and emergency contact info.
  • Health conditions the client is dealing with
  • Medicines the client is taking, doses, and how often administration is required
  • Health care provider information
  • Health insurance information
  • Caregiver Resources: This includes everything the caregiver needs to know about providing services like transportation, meal preparation, self-care, and more.

The plan ensures everyone is on the same page, making care easier and more streamlined.

Tips for Care Plan Development

Talk to your primary care provider to ensure your care plan is correct. Reach out to family members to get more information.

Review your care plan frequently. Make updates every time there is a change in care.

Use Care and Compassion: Care and compassion may seem like a blanket approach, but it involves a sense of empathy to care, as simple as that.

What are the Benefits of Having a Care Plan?

A good care plan can streamline the home health aide services. Allentown, PA clients and caregivers benefit in the following ways:

  • Reduces Medical Emergencies: Care plans ensure seniors take their medications on time and follow their treatment plans to reduce the risk of emergencies.
  • Better Care: Caregivers who follow a care plan will provide better care to their clients.
  • Higher Caregiver Satisfaction: A care plan lays everything out for the caregiver so they feel less stressed. Win-win!

AmeriBest Offers Personalized Home Care Aide Services in Allentown, PA

AmeriBest strives to provide tailored care plans to our clients. We offer resources and support for each of our client’s individual needs.

We also offer training for family members so they can care for their loved ones. You can’t get more personalized care than that. A family caregiver will know their relatives best. They will ensure the best care possible.

Contact us today to learn more about our customized in-home health care services.

How to Financially Plan for Home Care Assistance in Harrisburg, PA

home care assistance harrisburg pa

Families must plan carefully to maintain a high quality of life for loved ones as they age. Elder care is expensive. Fortunately, some programs offer benefits for home care assistance in Harrisburg, PA.

One program to consider is Medical Assistance and Payment of Long-Term Care Services. The program is available through Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services. This article will explain how to see if you qualify.

What is Medical Assistance and Payment of Long-Term Care Services?

Long Term Care (LTC) services cover home, community-based, and nursing home services. You can apply for LTC and Medicaid Assistance online through the COMPASS website. Or you can mail or give your application to your local county assistance office. The program provides home heating assistance, long-term living services, health care coverage, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and services for children.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for LTC, you must:

  • Have a doctor’s form confirming you require long-term medical services
  • Be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen
  • Be a Pennsylvania resident
  • Have a social security number

The eligibility requirements are as follows:

  • The limit for non-money payment (NMP) is 300 percent of the federal benefit rate (FBR) which changes annually.
  • The limit for medically needy only (MNO) is $2500 for semi-annual net income.
  • If your income is more than 300 percent of the FBR limit, you can deduct the cost of 6 months of long-term care to reduce your monthly income

Resource limits for one person are as follows:

  • The resource limit is $2000 with an additional $6000 resource disregard for people with income at or below 300 percent of the FBR
  • The resource limit is $2400 for people with an income above 300 percent of the FBR
  • You may also pay for LTC with your funds and eventually reduce your resources to the Medicaid LTC limits

Get Paid for Caregiving with Home Care Assistance in Harrisburg, PA

Training to become a home aide will also help you afford home health aide services. Harrisburg, PA residents may enroll in a training program with their chosen home care agency. They will get paid to care for their loved ones when they require additional care, as determined by their health care provider. It makes care more affordable and reduces caregiver’s financial losses incurred when they must take off work to care for their loved ones.

AmeriBest offers training for people who wish to get paid to care for their loved ones. We offer competitive pay, impressive benefits, and consistent hours, including holiday and overtime pay. Our caregivers train and work in a supportive environment. You may continue your education through our program to advance your career.

Affording at-home care can be challenging. Check out state programs to learn more about benefit eligibility for home care assistance in Harrisburg, PA. Contact AmeriBest to familiarize yourself with our caregiving options.

We will help you find the solutions best suited to your family situation.