Long-Term-Care Ombudsman. What’s That?

Under most long-term care policies, you are eligible for benefits when you cant do at least 2 out of six Activities of daily living, called ADLs on your own or suffer from Dementia or other cognitive impairment.Many policyholders delay utilizing benefits for many reasons: fear of the unknown, wanting to maintain control over their lives, concern for losing their independence, or appearing needy or weak.EVERYONE ages and needs some assistance. Individuals who require long-term care are generally NOT sick in the traditional sense, but instead are unable to perform the basic ADLs without support.When a loved one needs support at home to continue to live independently, long-term care insurance can be a big help in making that care more affordable.If you know your loved one has long-term care insurance and is struggling with ADLs encourage them to utilize their policy benefits as there is no refund of premiums to the family if benefits are not utilized.To better serve clients with long-term care insurance, we accept a wide variety of policies including:American PioneerBankers LifeConseco (SHIO)John HancockGuarantee TrustKanawhaMetlifePenn TreatyTransamericaUNUMWashington NationalThe Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Home Health Aides (HHAs) referred by Granny NANNIES are understanding and specialize in providing companionship, mobility assistance, and transportation services that keep seniors independent. They can also help relieve daily stress and keep our loved ones active and social. We carefully screen CNAs and HHAs for not only the essential legal requirements but also the kindness and compassion needed to care for others. Founded in 1990, Granny NANNIES offers services that can be personalized to meet the requirements of any individual, regardless of age or need. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, we provide quality, trustworthy, reliable, and affordable in-home care. 

Older adults can seek financial guidance from a range of well-known types of professionals, but when it comes to making long-term care decisions, it can be difficult to know who can help. The senior care services a person needs and can receive are greatly influenced by their health conditions, their health insurance coverage, community resources and programs, and the types of senior care services appropriate for them. It can be challenging to know how to navigate all these factors. Here, we explain three types of experts who can help seniors understand their options for long-term care, including State Health Insurance Assistance Program specialists, social workers, and senior living advisors. State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) specialistEvery state has a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), a free and unbiased information resource that educates state residents aged 65 and over and their families and caregivers about Medicare, Medicaid, and other assistance programs. The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 required the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to create state-level advisory programs that help the public better understand these complex programs. Because every state runs its own Medicaid program and may have varying rules about other programs and insurance, each operates its own SHIP with volunteers to educate residents. SHIP specialists must provide unbiased information about health insurance programs. For example, they can help explain how to enroll in Medicare, but they cannot enroll someone in Medicare. SHIP specialists can help older adults by: Explaining Medicare enrollment, including penalties associated with late enrollments.Explaining the options for Medicare coverage.Describing services that Medicare does and doesnt cover.Defining Parts A, B, C, and D of Medicare, including supplemental plans.Explaining Medicare Savings Programs.Explaining the Low-Income Subsidy program.SHIP counselors can also refer seniors to the state Medicaid office or the Social Security Administration if they meet eligibility requirements for certain programs.Older adults with questions about insurance and other assistance programs can find their local SHIP counselor at shiphelp.org.Social workerA social worker is a highly trained professional with a masters degree who helps individuals cope with issues and access supportive programs. Social workers who work with older adults are often employed in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, home health agencies, and geriatric doctors offices.These professionals often have knowledge of state programs like Medicaid and Medicare, PACE programs, and other programs that older adults may need to access. They have contact information for local and state offices that can help older adults with these programs as well. Because social workers have a holistic view of older adult medical conditions, long-term care needs, senior living facilities, and public programs, they are a great liaison for helping older adults access the help they need. Senior living advisorA senior living advisor is a professional with in-depth knowledge about the common care needs of older adults, long-term care options, and financial options to fund care services. A senior living advisor can also obtain the Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) designation, though it is not required. The CSA designation requires the individual to pass an exam and background check. The exam tests knowledge of the aging process, needs for care, financial matters related to retirement and long-term care, and other pertinent topics.A senior living advisor can be a great help to an older adult who needs care and assistance in deciding the best way to obtain that care. These professionals typically offer their services to older adults and get paid by the community or the provider where the older adult moves in or contracts services. Some of the services and assistance a senior living provider will offer to their senior clients and their families include:Educating the senior and family on long-term care options, including home care, so they can decide which option is best for them.Providing suggestions for senior living or long-term care facilities based on the senior clients care needs.Acting as the liaison between the community and the senior and family in scheduling the community tour.Accompanying the senior and family on each community tour.Connecting the senior and family with individuals who can assess financial ability and needs to pay for care services.The senior living advisor deals with many communities and home care providers in their area and can objectively discuss each, helping seniors and their families navigate selecting the right long-term care option. Because senior living options and prices vary depending on the location, working with a local senior living advisor is the best way to learn the most about long-term care options in a seniors area.Get help understanding your long-term care optionsWhen it comes to making a decision about long-term care services, many factors must be considered. While elder law attorneys, estate planners, accountants, and other financial professionals can help older adults assess their financial means to cover senior care costs, individuals like SHIP specialists, social workers, and senior living advisors can help seniors understand their options for care. Through the collaboration of financial professionals and long-term care experts, older adults can more easily access the long-term care services they need.

Volunteerism is not just about giving time. Volunteering in senior care is about igniting a spark a spark of connection, joy, and purpose that enriches lives on both sides of the giving equation. Learn how you can ditch the ordinary and become an extraordinary force for good in the lives of seniors. This guide discusses the benefits of volunteerism for seniors and ways caregivers can help them get involved in community service.Benefits of Volunteerism for SeniorsVolunteering can greatly boost a senior's self-esteem. It gives them a sense of purpose and accomplishment. When they see the positive impact they're making, it can lift their spirits and improve their mental health. Feeling needed and valued can be incredibly empowering.Social connections are vital for everyone, and seniors are no exception. Volunteering offers a chance to meet new people and build friendships. This helps reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are common among seniors. A vibrant social life can lead to increased happiness and emotional well-being.Physical Health BenefitsStaying active and engaged through volunteer work can also benefit physical health. Movement is necessary for maintaining health, whether it's light physical activity or simply getting out of the house. Some studies even suggest that active seniors are likely to have better overall physical health.From walks around the park with fellow volunteers to light cleaning and tidying up around a community organization, there are a wealth of ways to keep seniors active while doing good for those around them. Still, seniors should always speak to their healthcare providers before starting a new fitness routine.How Caregivers Can Support Senior VolunteerismAs a caregiver, you can help seniors find the right volunteer opportunities. Match these opportunities with the senior's interests and skills. Consider what they enjoy and what they're good at. Equally important is considering their physical and cognitive abilities to ensure the volunteer work is suitable and fulfilling.One of the main barriers to volunteering is often transportation. Caregivers can arrange transportation to volunteer sites. This includes coordinating schedules and ensuring the seniors can get where they need to be. Providing logistical support, like helping with sign-ups and schedules, can make a big difference.Caregivers should offer positive reinforcement and celebrate the senior's contributions. Sometimes, seniors may have concerns or fears about starting something new. Addressing these concerns and providing the support they need can motivate them to take the first step.Get Custom Care and Support Services for Seniors TodayThe benefits of senior volunteerism are numerous, from boosting self-esteem to promoting social connections and improving physical health. Caregivers can help by identifying suitable opportunities, providing transportation, and offering encouragement. Let's strive to support our seniors in giving back to the community.If you need assistance in finding and supporting volunteer opportunities for seniors in Fort Collins, Englewood, Littleton, Windsor, and Longmont, contact us at Senior Helpers Fort Collins. We proudly provide compassionate senior care services that serve the whole person and enhance emotional and physical health.