Choosing Home Care Services That Meet Your Needs

Learn how Minnesota family members may be able to receive payment for caring for an aging parent through self-directed care and how PICS helps families manage the process. For many Minnesota families, caring for an aging parent begins gradually.Maybe you start by picking up groceries once a week. Then you begin driving Mom to medical appointments, organizing medications or helping with laundry. Before long, you may be preparing meals, helping with personal care, checking in every day and rearranging your own work schedule around your parent's needs.At some point, many families ask an important question:Can a family member actually get paid for providing this care?In Minnesota, the answer may be yes.Depending on your loved one's needs, financial eligibility and the program they qualify for, certain self-directed care programs can allow family members or other trusted individuals to be paid for providing approved caregiving services.For families trying to help an older adult remain safely at home, understanding these options can make a significant difference.What Is Self-Directed Care?Traditional home care usually involves an agency hiring caregivers and determining who will provide services.Self-directed care works differently.It gives the person receiving services or an authorized representative greater control over how care is provided. Depending on the program, participants may be able to select their caregivers, help determine schedules and decide how approved funds are used to meet their individual needs.That caregiver might be someone the older adult already knows and trusts.In some situations, it can be an adult child, grandchild, spouse, other relative, friend or neighbor.For an older adult who wants to remain in familiar surroundings, receiving help from someone they already know can provide both practical assistance and peace of mind.Minnesota Programs Can Help Seniors Remain at HomeMinnesota offers several programs designed to help eligible older adults and people with disabilities receive services in their homes and communities rather than moving into institutional care.One important option is Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS).CDCS is available through certain Minnesota Home and Community-Based Services waiver programs. It allows participants to develop an individualized plan for using an approved budget to support their independence at home and in the community.For adults age 65 and older, CDCS may be available through programs such as Minnesota's Elderly Waiver (EW) and Alternative Care (AC) programs.Both EW and AC are designed for adults 65 and older who meet a nursing-home level of care but want to continue living in their homes and communities.Depending upon the individual's approved plan, services may include caregiving, homemaking, meals, respite, transportation, personal emergency response systems, chore services, certain home modifications and other supports.Most importantly for many families, CDCS may allow approved funds to be used to pay certain family members or other trusted individuals for caregiving.Could an Adult Child Be Paid to Care for a Parent?Potentially, yes.Under CDCS, approved caregivers can include adult children and grandchildren who provide care for an aging family member. Other trusted people, including friends and neighbors, may also be eligible to become paid caregivers.Spouses may also be able to provide paid caregiving under applicable self-directed programs, although specific rules depend on the program and circumstances.Another Minnesota program families may encounter is Community First Services and Supports (CFSS).CFSS is Minnesota's newer home-care program that is replacing Personal Care Assistance (PCA) and Consumer Support Grant (CSG) services as participants transition through their annual assessments.CFSS provides additional self-directed options, and under certain circumstances spouses can provide paid caregiving services.Because every person's eligibility and service plan are different, families should not assume that caregiving will automatically qualify for payment. An assessment and approved service plan are required.Why Paying Family Caregivers Can MatterFamily caregivers often provide an enormous amount of unpaid assistance.A daughter may reduce her hours at work so she can help her father several afternoons each week. A son may drive across town every morning to prepare breakfast and make sure medications are taken. A spouse may spend much of the day helping with dressing, bathing, meals and mobility.Families frequently do these things because they love the person they're caring for.But caregiving also has a financial impact.Work hours may be reduced. Careers can be interrupted. Transportation costs increase. Caregivers may find themselves balancing their own children, household responsibilities and finances while also caring for an aging parent.When an eligible program allows a family member to become a paid caregiver, it recognizes that caregiving is real work.It can also make it more realistic for a family to continue supporting a loved one at home.Where Does PICS Fit Into This?This is where PICS Partners in Community Supports can help.PICS is a Minnesota nonprofit organization and a subsidiary of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota. It has provided self-directed care support to Minnesota individuals and families since 1999.PICS serves as a Financial Management Service (FMS) provider.That sounds complicated, but the idea is fairly simple.When a family chooses a self-directed program, someone still needs to handle the administrative and financial responsibilities associated with employing caregivers and using government-approved funds.PICS helps participants with responsibilities such as:Hiring and staffingProcessing caregiver payrollProcessing approved expense reimbursementsAccounting and financial reportingTax and revenue informationBudget trackingTraining and other employment-related requirementsInstead of families trying to figure out payroll, taxes, reporting requirements and reimbursement procedures themselves, PICS helps manage those details.That allows families to spend more time focused on what matters most supporting the person they love.Choice Can Be an Important Part of Aging in PlaceFor many older adults, remaining at home isn't simply about staying in a particular house.It's about maintaining independence, routine, dignity and connection to their community.Being able to choose who comes into the home can be especially important.Some seniors may be uncomfortable having an unfamiliar caregiver assist with personal tasks. Others may have language, cultural or communication preferences. And some simply feel safer receiving help from someone they've known for years.Self-directed services can give eligible individuals more control over these decisions.Instead of fitting the person into a predetermined care arrangement, the goal is to build supports around the person's individual needs.How Does a Minnesota Family Get Started?The first step is determining whether the person needing care qualifies for an applicable Minnesota program.For older adults, this may involve eligibility for Minnesota Medical Assistance and the Elderly Waiver or determining whether the individual qualifies for the Alternative Care program.An assessment is generally required to determine the person's needs and eligibility.Families can begin by contacting their county or Minnesota's Senior LinkAge Line to learn about available programs and the assessment process.If a self-directed program such as CDCS or CFSS is appropriate, the participant will work with the necessary care professionals to develop an approved service plan and select service providers.PICS can then help families navigate the financial-management side of self-directed services.Don't Assume Your Family Doesn't QualifyOne of the biggest mistakes families can make is assuming these programs aren't available to them.If you're already spending significant time caring for a parent, spouse or other loved one, it is worth asking what Minnesota programs may be available.You may discover options that help your loved one remain at home while providing additional support for the people who are already helping them.Every situation is different, and eligibility is never automatic. But asking the question is an important first step.Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I get paid to take care of my elderly parent in Minnesota?Possibly. Certain Minnesota self-directed programs may allow eligible family members, including adult children, to be paid for approved caregiving services. The person receiving care must qualify for the applicable program, and the services must be part of an approved plan.Can a senior choose his or her own caregiver?Self-directed programs are designed to give participants greater choice and control over their services. Depending on the program, participants may be able to select family members, friends or other trusted individuals as caregivers.Does PICS determine whether my parent qualifies for Medicaid or an Elderly Waiver?No. Program eligibility is determined through Minnesota's applicable state, county and assessment processes. PICS serves as a Financial Management Service provider for people participating in eligible self-directed programs.What does PICS do once a family is enrolled?Depending upon the program, PICS can assist with caregiver hiring and staffing, payroll, reimbursements, accounting, reporting, taxes, training and budget management.Where can families learn more?Minnesota families interested in self-directed care can contact their county, Senior LinkAge Line or appropriate care coordinator to learn about eligibility and available programs. Families can also contact PICS to learn more about the self-directed programs and Financial Management Services they support.More Choice. More Support. More Independence.Caring for an aging loved one can be rewarding, but it can also require an enormous commitment of time, energy and financial resources.Minnesota families may have more options than they realize.For eligible older adults, self-directed care can provide greater choice over who provides assistance and how approved services are delivered. For family caregivers, it may also create an opportunity to receive compensation for caregiving they are already providing.PICS Partners in Community Supports helps Minnesota families manage the financial and administrative details of self-directed care so they can focus on helping their loved ones live safely and independently at home.Learn more about PICS and explore resources for Minnesota seniors and caregivers through Seniors Blue Book.  For more information contact us at  888.874.7427 or visit our website at  https://pics.lssmn.org/

Seniors with dementia do not all need the same type of support. Some can continue living at home with the right help, while others benefit from the structure, supervision, and specialized environment of a memory care community. The right fit depends on safety concerns, daily functioning, behavior changes, and how much support family members can provide. This article explains the main types of memory care options and what to consider when deciding which option makes the most sense.What are memory care services?Memory care services offer specialized support for people with dementia, helping to maintain safety, decrease distress, and improve quality of life.Key memory care approaches include:  Supervision and monitoring for safety. Safe and secure environments. Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing and toileting. Medication management. Activities for cognitive engagement and social connection. Increased structure and routines to help reduce confusion. What makes memory care different from standard senior care is the dementia-specific approach. Caregivers use routines, cueing, redirection, and calm communication strategies designed for people with cognitive impairment. Activities are usually more structured and adapted to attention span, confusion, and sensory needs. The goal is to reduce distress, support function, and create a safer daily life.Now lets take a look at different memory care options that might be suitable for your situation.In-home memory care servicesWith in-home memory care services, seniors remain in their homes, and professionals come to them. This is a good option to supplement care if family members are also providing support. Care offeredIn-home memory care services provide supportive one-on-one care tailored to the individuals needs. The amount of care depends on your loved ones needs and your budget. Options include: A few hours of support each week. Full-time daily help. Daytime, evening, or overnight hours.  Typical safety features and amenitiesWith in-home memory care, the senior receives supervision and assistance only when the professional caregiver is present. Family members are responsible for any additional support and for ensuring that the home is safe. Advantages of in-home memory servicesIn-home memory care can work well when a person with dementia is still able to stay at home with the right support. It offers a level of flexibility and familiarity that many families value.Advantages include: Flexible care schedule. One-on-one support. Lower cost when fewer hours are needed. Familiar home environment and routines. Disadvantages of in-home memory care servicesAs care needs increase and you need more hours of in-home memory care services, the cost can become unsustainable. Keeping the senior at home can also come with significant challenges, including safety concerns, isolation, caregiver burnout, and an unoptimized environment. The person with dementia may also get to the point where the home environment isnt safe or structured enough for them. Adult day care programAdult day care programs are nonresidential services that provide structured activities, assistance with activities of daily living, and social connection during daytime hours. Some programs are specifically designed for people with dementia.Certain programs are also classified as adult day health care, allowing them to include nursing oversight and health monitoring. Others have a social focus instead. Dementia-specific programs can fall into either category. They also have specially trained staff and dementia-specific activities. Care offeredAdult day care programs provide structured support during the day for older adults who are still living at home. The exact services vary by program. In adult day care, your older adult loved one will get: Daytime supervision. Structured activities. Social interaction. Meals and snacks. Help with daily tasks. Transportation (in some programs). Health monitoring (in some programs). Dementia-specific programs feature predictable activities and schedules, smaller groups, and repetition. Adult day care programs are best for seniors who are being supported at home but who need some supervision during the day or could benefit from socialization, particularly those in the early stages of dementia. Typical safety features and amenitiesAdult day care programs are often held in spaces like senior centers, community centers, and health care facilities. Because of this, many of the safety and supportive aspects come from staff rather than from the environment. However, programs often include simple modifications to support safety, such as controlled entrances and exits and simple layouts.Some programs are run by memory care providers and tend to have more dementia-friendly design features and staff with extensive training in caring for people with dementia.Advantages of an adult day care programAdvantages of adult day care include: Reduced loneliness and isolation. Respite for family caregivers. Potentially lower costs than full-time residential care. Reduced number of paid in-home care hours. Disadvantages of an adult day care programThe daytime nature of this care limits its usefulness for some families, and transportation to and from the program can be stressful if the program does not provide it. The program may also be unsuitable for people in the later stages of dementia or those with significant behavioral challenges.Memory care wing in a senior communityNursing homes and assisted living facilities often have wings dedicated to memory care. This wing has many of the features of the broader community but has also been carefully designed for residents with dementia.Care offeredSenior care communities provide 24/7 staffing and support. Their care includes assistance with activities of daily living, including walking, eating, and toileting. If the memory care wing is part of a nursing home, skilled nursing care is also available.Memory care wings in these communities provide this care in a dementia-friendly way. For example, staff know how to redirect and de-escalate behavioral symptoms when necessary. Typical safety features and amenitiesMemory care wings typically include safety features that keep people with dementia safe, such as: Secured entrances. Enclosed courtyards. Simplified layouts. Clear signage to support navigation. Staff trained to ensure resident safety and reduce distress. Advantages of a memory care wingFor an older adult who already lives in a senior care community, a memory care wing allows them to transition to memory care when necessary without having to find an entirely new community. This environment is best for people with moderate to late dementia, especially when they need 24-hour supervision. Memory care wings can typically support more cognitive and behavioral challenges than home care or day programs.Disadvantages of a memory care wingSome memory care wings can feel institutional. They may also be less specialized than a dedicated memory care community, especially if they follow the broader facilitys general structure and approach.Theres also variation to consider. While memory care tends to have more highly trained staff and a higher staff-to-resident ratio than other community types, the exact requirements vary considerably. As such, its crucial to research carefully and see what the place youre considering has to offer. Dedicated memory care communityDedicated memory care communities focus specifically on memory care. The dementia focus allows for more intentional and tailored design choices that address the symptoms of the disease.  Care offeredCare in a dedicated memory care community is similar to that in a memory care wing, with 24/7 supervision and assistance with daily tasks. There is also considerable support for difficult dementia behaviors and differences in symptoms. Some communities are classified as nursing homes and can therefore provide nursing care, while others focus on support with daily living.Some communities have different levels of care and even different environments to account for dementia progression. This helps create a more comfortable environment throughout the dementia journey.Typical safety features and amenitiesCommon features of dedicated memory care communities often include: Specialized design features. Clear lines of sight for staff. High-contrast colors to help with visual confusion. Circular hallways to reduce confusion. Reduced noise. Some communities also use memory boxes, which are small displays of personal photos or familiar objects placed outside a residents room to support orientation and spark recognition.Staff tend to be well-trained in dementia care and able to respond to any challenges that arise. Programs are designed for dementia needs, often with variations for different levels of cognitive ability.Advantages of a memory care communityThese communities have the highest level of specialization, which can lead to a highly tailored dementia environment. There is often a high staff-to-resident ratio, plus considerable staff training. The environment is best for people with moderate to advanced dementia, particularly when the senior cant be safely cared for at home. Disadvantages of a memory care communityMoving to this type of community can be a major transition for seniors, especially if their dementia symptoms are significant. The communities can be expensive, too, which can make them an unrealistic choice for some people.

Senior care conversations often assume that adult children will assist as the senior ages. Yet, this isnt always an option. Many people need to plan for care without relying on family at all. Thankfully, aging on your own is entirely possible. Senior care systems are increasingly recognizing this pattern and helping support independent aging. When youre aging on your own, planning becomes crucial. You need to put systems in place as early as possible, then refine plans as things change. The tips in this article will guide you along the way.Why some seniors dont rely on family for future careThere are many reasons for not relying on family members for future care. Sometimes this is as simple as not having any children or close relatives. Other times, your family may not be able to help. Perhaps they live in a different state or even a different country. They may also lack the capacity due to their own responsibilities, health, or other factors. After all, life can be pretty overwhelming at times, and even those who care may not have much to give. Some seniors simply want to do things on their own. Doing so reduces the burden on loved ones and can be the best option if there are any difficult or estranged relationships.Risks of not planning aheadWithout planning, you risk having to make big decisions in the middle of a crisis. In those situations, your resources, attention, and options are often limited, and you might not get the solution you want.There are also cases where you cant make decisions for yourself, like if youre in a coma or in the later stages of dementia. Someone then needs to make decisions on your behalf. Without the right paperwork, the person and the decisions might not be what you hope for at all. In practice, lack of planning could leave you in assisted living when you want to age at home or mean youre kept alive with interventions you never would have chosen. The following three sections highlight the main approaches to take when planning ahead for your own senior care.Set up legal decision-making documentsCertain legal documents are used to express your wishes and ensure the right people are making decisions for you. Crucial documents include: A living will, which details your health care wishes, including information about comfort care, resuscitation, and life-sustaining treatments (like feeding tubes). A health care power of attorney (POA), which gives the nominated person authority to make decisions for you in specific circumstances. Your living will guides these decisions.  Financial and legal POA. These are similar to a health care POA but for financial and legal matters, respectively. HIPAA release forms. These forms can speed up your health care agents access to medical information and make it easier for someone to help you with health care decisions. Plan for housing and care needsThe various housing and senior care options can seem overwhelming at first. However, a little research and planning now can make a world of difference when care needs become significant.Here are the main options to consider when planning where to live as you age. Aging in placeMany older adults wish to continue living in their own homes as they age. While being fully independent is possible for some, it can become difficult as physical abilities, health, and cognition decline. To age in place, you might need to rely on external support, such as: Home care. Home health care. Meal prep assistance or delivery. Local community assistance programs. Home modifications for safety. Its also important to stay socially connected when living independently. Doing so is crucial for well-being and means theres someone around to notice any health declines that you might miss. Still, even with support, aging in place can become unrealistic for some. Its worth considering other options early and looking for signs that its time to move to a senior care facility.Independent livingIndependent living communities are designed for older adults who do not need daily hands-on care but want a simpler, more supportive lifestyle. They often include private apartments or cottages, along with features like dining options, housekeeping, transportation, social activities, and maintenance-free living. Some are stand-alone communities while others are part of larger senior living campuses that also offer assisted living, memory care, or nursing care.This option can work well if you want more convenience, more opportunities for connection, and fewer responsibilities at home while still maintaining a high level of independence. Planning ahead gives you time to compare communities, think about what services and amenities matter most, and decide whether a stand-alone independent living setting or a larger community with higher levels of care would be a better long-term fit.Assisted livingAssisted living provides support with activities of daily living, such as bathing and eating.These communities have other benefits, too, including engagement and connection, prepared meals, transportation, planned activities, and various amenities. In fact, most of the things you need are close at hand, which can make a huge difference in a seniors daily life.Planning gives you the chance to research communities, decide which ones you might like, and talk to them about the future. Nursing homesNursing homes provide a higher level of support for older adults who need ongoing medical supervision as well as help with daily living. In addition to assistance with tasks like bathing, dressing, and mobility, they also have licensed staff available to manage more complex health needs.This setting may be necessary if you have serious medical concerns, substantial physical limitations, or a condition that is likely to require close monitoring over time. Planning ahead gives you a chance to learn how nursing homes differ from other senior care options, consider what level of medical support you may need in the future, and identify communities that would be a reasonable fit if that level of care ever becomes necessary.Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)Continuing care retirement communities provide a continuum of care from independent living to skilled nursing care, so you can simply move within the community as your care needs change. The result is smaller transitions, a familiar environment, and increased financial predictability. However, CCRCs are expensive, and its best to enter them when youre still healthy. As such, theyre not the best choice for everyone.Questions to ask yourself about future careDifferences between care environments arent the only things to consider. You also need to think about what matters to you. Here are some questions to consider as you plan for senior care: Do you have a health condition that might limit your ability to care for yourself in the future? Are there significant health conditions that run in your family? How might these impact your independence?  How important is aging at home to you? Could you find connection and peace in a community of others your age? What happens if youre diagnosed with dementia? When would you consider memory care? Organize your financesNot relying on family when planning for senior care means you may need to rely more heavily on paid services, making aging more expensive. Whats more, theres limited financial support for long-term nonmedical care. Many costs must be paid privately using a combination of personal savings, investments, pensions, and proceeds from asset sales. Medicaid and Veterans benefits are sometimes relevant if you meet the criteria. Long-term care insurance can also be helpful. However, this needs to be purchased early, before you have any significant diagnoses. Here are some crucial tips for keeping your finances organized when planning for senior care. Store important documents in a single place, and update them regularly.  Take time to understand the lowest income youre likely to have in the future. This information is crucial for developing a realistic strategy.  Talk to a financial advisor and an elder law attorney to determine the best use of your assets. Develop a budget that meets your current needs and allows you to save for the future.  Review spending and future plans regularly. Doing so is crucial as markets change and your needs may change as well. Oasis can help you plan for future senior care needsPlanning for senior care without relying on family can feel like a lot to carry on your own, but with the right legal documents, financial planning, and a thoughtful approach to future housing and care, you can create a path that gives you more stability, more choice, and more peace of mind.Oasis Senior Advisors can help you think through your options and prepare for what may come next. Whether you are exploring independent living, assisted living, memory care, or nursing homes, an Oasis advisor can help you understand the differences, narrow down the right fit, and make a plan that supports your goals for the future.