Sometimes life presents us with challenges that force us to rely on the caring hands of others. Sometimes this is just the progression of life with aging slowing us down and making it difficult to do everyday tasks.
Savings and insurance usually pick up the tab for home care but what if you have not planned for this? Can you still age in the security of your own home?
If you reside in Pennsylvania, there is an additional option available to you and it’s called OPTIONS.
OPTIONS is the general name for the long-term, in-home services made available through the DHS Area Agency on Aging (AAA).
The Options Program is intended to provide customized support to help older adults remain in their homes and communities. They also respond to seniors who have immediate needs for assistance and intervention.
There is no financial eligibility requirement for the OPTIONS program. However, individuals may be assessed for a minimal co-payment. This copayment is based on income and will not be more than the total cost of services.
A care manager will be assigned to you to complete a level of care and needs assessment. The care manager will create a customized care plan and works with you to get the services that you need to remain living at home.
The eligibility requirements for the program are very easy. They include:
- Pennsylvania residency
- US citizen or lawful permanent resident
- 60 years of age or older and
- experience some degree of frailty in regards to physical and/or mental status that impacts daily functioning
Renaissance Home Care is one of the institutions that receive patients from the DHS through the Options program.
Clients can receive a combination of any of the following care programs for a few hours a week once they are approved:
In-home meal service: Have nutritious meals delivered to your home on weekdays
Adult day services: Provides a safe environment in a community setting if you require assistance to meet your physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs
Home companions: Provides regular visits by a volunteer companion to help you in your home
Home health services: A nurse can come by to provide care such as speech, physical and occupational therapy
Personal care: Includes helping you with bathing, dressing, grooming, light housekeeping, and grocery shopping through traditional providers or through people-directed services.
Personal Emergency Response System (PERS): An electronic device that enables you to receive help in the event of an emergency.
If you are on the other side of care management and are seeking a caregiver role, you can sign up with Renaissance Home Care at their hiring event on May 26. To become a Direct Care worker, you will have to undergo only four hours of training and be eligible for this employment opportunity. Compensation is above industry standard and includes a $500 sign-on bonus and a strong, family-oriented team that supports your growth. This could be the start of a beautifully rewarding career or just a part-time income option for students who need time flexibility.
Either way, we are ready and open to discuss your employment options.
If you are a senior seeking care or know of one who needs assistance, please contact the AAA Senior Line at 412-350-5460, toll-free 1-800-344-4319 or email SeniorLine to discuss any of these services.
DISCLAIMER: THIS BLOG DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen.