Filial Responsibility: Are Children Responsible for Their Parents’ Long-Term Care?

Seniors and Caregivers: Establish an Emergency Action PlanFor seniors and their caregivers, having a plan in place should an emergency strike can provide some peace of mind in a turbulent world. A crisis, such as illness, trauma, natural disaster, or any other unexpected adverse event, may one day require you to act quickly and decisively.Thinking and adapting can be particularly difficult when you are facing a high-stress situation. This is why disaster experts emphasize the importance of planning and practicing for various types of emergencies.For example, you might decide to run a fire drill in your own home. If your loved one lives in a residential facility, you want to ensure that the facility has suitable procedures in place. In an emergency, their staff members need to be able to provide adequate care for your loved one.If you do not have a disaster plan, its time to start creating one. If you have one, update it yearly and anytime there is a major change in your or your loved ones health care needs.Sharing Information on CaregivingHopefully, you would be able to continue to care for your loved one during and after a crisis. You should still ensure that other trusted individuals know how to care for your loved one, in case you are not with them. The more these helpers know about how to tend to your loved ones needs in emergency situations, the better.Start with writing a document to share with alternate caregivers. Involve the person who needs care as much as possible in this process. That way, you are making your loved one aware and allowing them to contribute. At the same time, it is also a great way to prompt conversations about what they might like to change in their current situation.The document should list your loved ones current needs, impairments, medications, and allergies. Describe what a typical day looks like for them, what provides comfort, and what foods they enjoy or avoid. Include crucial identifying information such as a current photo, date of birth, and Social Security number.A short biography informing providers of your loved ones interests, personality, and background can go a long way, especially if you are often their advocate or need to speak for them. Share this information with other family members, a family lawyer, their care facility, and anyone else who might help during a crisis.If you do not live with or near the person for whom you are creating the plan, think about who can help care for them until family arrives. Check which organizations or neighbors may supply necessities and check in on your loved one daily.In the Event of an EmergencyBe sure to keep any relevant medical information as well as your trusted contacts in an accessible place. Emergency responders, for example, you may look for your In Case of Emergency (ICE) contacts in your smartphone. Medical ID bracelets are essential for first responders as well.In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a Care Plan that you or your caregiver can print and fill out. In it, you can include detailed information on your medical care and emergency contacts. The CDC suggests storing the completed form in a waterproof bag with your insurance cards and photo ID.Consider creating a safety profile with Smart911 if it is available in your area. This free service will provide 911 dispatchers with details about your health needs or disability. In an emergency, this information could aid them in locating or assisting you. You can create profile for loved ones as well.Compile a disaster supplies kit; this may include your medications and any necessary medical supplies for your specific condition. Other items, like N95 masks, matches, and towels can prove useful in an emergency. Visit Ready.gov and the American Red Cross website for lists of recommended items and guides on preparedness.Planning for EvacuationThink ahead about how you would evacuate quickly and safely. Consider where you would go, how you would get there, and what you would need to bring.Does your chosen relocation site have adequate food, water, toiletries, and medication available? In times of emergency, keep in mind that you can check with the pharmacy before leaving, as many will provide early refills. Some major retailers also offer prescription delivery.Your plans should address specific seasons. For example, it may make sense to have summer plans that differ from winter ones, depending on where you live.Often, you or the senior needing care has medical needs requiring equipment, medicine, and attention. If they are not mobile, think about how you would relocate them in an emergency. Consider organizing some medical supplies in a bag or box to grab for a quick exit.Emergency relocation requires addressing the need to move all assistive medical devices and durable medical equipment. Remember batteries and chargers for all necessary devices.Try to avoid the need to evacuate quickly. A proactive early departure will help you stay calm and think more clearly. It may also help prevent potential difficulties like gas shortages and traffic jams.A Crisis Plan for Senior Citizens in a Residential FacilityYour plan for a senior living in a facility will look different than it would for one living in their home. Below are some recommendations to ensure aging loved ones in a facility will stay safe in a disaster:Review the facilitys backup generator, evacuation routes, and other basic precautions.Make sure the facility has your primary and alternative contact information.Request updates from health administration staff regarding changes in your loved ones emotional or physical state.Ask for medical records that document all care they are managing.Communicate frequently with your loved one in any way possible to ensure they are as safe as possible.Take detailed notes because it is easy to overlook or forget important details during times of high stress.Share as much information as possible with your loved one to reassure them that their health and safety are a priority.Start Small and SoonIt may feel overwhelming to consider all the steps involved in crisis planning and put it off until another day. Unfortunately, you never know when disaster might occur, so theres no time to lose.To start, jot down the most critical information and share it with your loved ones. You can always update your plan with more details later. These steps can provide organization, protection, and comfort in times of great uncertainty.This article shared by Ashley Day Special Needs & Elder Law.  Ashley Day can be contacted at 251-277-3377

Elders need more attention and care compared to others. The healthcare cost has skyrocketed, and it has become a financial burden on the individuals who want to avail of it. In such conditions, Medicaid for nursing home care becomes the best option for seniors to access the vital support they require.What is Medicaid for Nursing Home Care?Medicaid is a joint program by federal and state governments that offers healthcare coverage to elders incapable of taking financial burdens. Regarding long-term care, this care program is the best assistance for people who need round-the-clock care due to chronic illnesses, age-related conditions, and disabilities.Eligibility Criteria:Eligibility depends on both health and financial criteria. Medical eligibility requires the applicants to prove the requirement for nursing home-level care as prescribed by the healthcare professional. Financial eligibility is determined by income, and asset limits, which can vary from state to state. Medicaid for nursing home care is planned for low-income individuals. Protecting Assets While Qualifying for the Medicaid:A common concern among seniors and their families is protecting their assets while qualifying for Medicaid. It comes with strict rules and regulations regarding assets, and individuals who exceed these limits can be denied to avail of the benefits, and sometimes, it attracts penalties. However, several legal strategies, like asset transfers and trusts, can be initiated to protect the assets while meeting the Medicaid requirements. In such conditions, hiring an elderly law attorney would be a great solution to this issue. They have the required expertise and experience to handle such issues.Benefits of Medicaid for Nursing Home Care:Medicaid provides comprehensive coverage for nursing home care, ensuring elders receive the necessary healthcare service to meet their healthcare needs. Not all nursing homes comply with this service. Instead, only Medicaid-certified nursing homes that meet specific quality standards offer this care to the residents. The coverage includes room and board, nursing, medical care, personal care, medication management, therapy services, and more. By accessing Medicaid for nursing home care, elders can receive the essential support they need to maintain their health and quality of life.Conclusion:Medicaid for nursing home care is a vital support system for seniors needing long-term care services. Meeting the eligibility criteria, protecting the assets, and navigating the application process are vital steps in accessing this service. By availing of this service, seniors can secure the financial assistance required to afford quality nursing home care.

Have you considered how important it will be for you to help an elder loved one decide on the right nursing home? There are many factors to consider, such as price, location, and safety record. An elder loved one also has to be comfortable with the facility if they are going to live there. These big-picture concerns only scratch the surface. Let us take time to review five questions you should be asking when doing your due diligence on nursing home selection.1. Is the nursing home accredited? All skilled nursing home facilities must comply with federal regulations if they receive Medicare and Medicaid payments. States also require nursing home certifications. An organization called the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations further accredits nursing homes. While participation is voluntary, approval from the Joint Commission shows an extra level of transparency and care.2. What is the environment like? This question is more about observing the facility than it is pressing a nursing homes management for answers. For example, is the facility clean? Is it located in a safe neighborhood? What is the quality of the outside gardens and interior dcor? These are not superficial judgments, but important criteria for long-term residence.3. Who will provide medical care? When visiting a nursing home, make sure to meet with the facilitys top administrator and medical director. Also, ask to meet with staff members who would provide medical care to your aging loved one . Is there a doctor on-site? Can your loved one still see his or her doctors? If so, will the nursing home provide transportation?4. What is the turnover rate for nursing aides? Nursing aides are the backbone of nursing home care, and a high turnover rate can be a major red flag. It may also be important to gauge the reputation of the facilitys nursing staff, but you do not have to rely on the facility for the information. Contact an area nursing home ombudsman or the agency that regulates nursing homes in your state.5. What kind of recreational activities and social services are offered? Like young people, elder adults need social interaction and enjoyable activities to be fulfilled, healthy, and mentally stimulated. This also helps mitigate loneliness and social isolation. Nursing homes should provide a wide range of activities and social opportunities. If they do not, consider it a potential deal-breaker.Choosing the right nursing home can provide peace of mind during a period of uncertainty and loss of independence. There is more to consider, especially regarding contracts, insurance, and government benefits. You are not alone. Our office can help you navigate these challenges. Contact us today to schedule a meeting.