For more information about the author, click to view their website: Helping Hands Consulting
Colorado Long-Term Care Medicaid is what we specialize in at Helping Hands Consulting. Our combined knowledge and extensive experience allow us to deliver exceptional service to all our clients.
We charge one flat fee for the entire service, and you can trust that no hidden fees will be encountered along the way.
Our team of experts are committed to upholding the highest of service standards. We treat our clients with care and compassion throughout the entire process. Our team will ensure you feel informed, educated, and supported during this often-challenging time.
Facilities are more likely to admit residents as Medicaid pending with Helping Hands Consulting on the case. They trust in our ability to secure our clients’ benefits, giving them peace of mind that they will get paid for the services they provide.
Our company holds Professional, General Liability and Cyber Insurance to ensure our clients’ interests are protected.
Since 2010, we have been providing reliable service to our neighbors across all counties in Colorado. We stay informed and educated on the frequently changing Medicaid rules and regulations so that we can confidently serve our clients.
If you have any questions, please call Helping Hands Consulting at 303-717-6082.
Understanding the Difference Between Home Health and Private Duty CareOne of the most common questions we receive is, Whats the difference between Home Health and Private Duty care? While both services provide essential support for individuals in need of care at home, they differ significantly in purpose, structure, and funding. Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions about the best care options for your loved ones.What Is Home Health Care?Home Health Care is a medical service that focuses on helping individuals recover from illness, injury, surgery, or often following a hospital stay. This type of care is typically short-term and is designed to restore or improve a patients ability to function independently.Key Characteristics of Home Health Care1. Payor Source: Home Health is usually covered by health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid. To qualify, a patient must meet specific requirements, including a qualifying event (e.g., hospital discharge or significant change in health status) and a physicians order to initiate services.2. Goal-Oriented: The primary aim of Home Health is to improve the patients condition within a defined time frame. For example, physical therapy may be provided to help regain mobility after surgery, or a nurse may assist in managing medications during recovery.3. Medical Focus: Home Health includes skilled medical services such as wound care, injections, monitoring vital signs, and therapy (physical, occupational, or speech).4. Short-Term Duration: Services typically last a few weeks to a few months depending on the patients progress and medical needs.What Is Private Duty Care?In contrast, Private Duty Care provides non-medical support that is tailored to meet the individuals daily living needs. This care is designed to enhance quality of life and allow individuals to age in place or remain safely at home for as long as possible.Key Characteristics of Private Duty Care1. Payor Source: Private Duty care is primarily funded out-of-pocket by individuals or families. In some cases, long-term care insurance may cover services, but this varies by policy.2. Flexible and Personalized: Private Duty care offers tremendous flexibility, accommodating everything from a few hours a week to 24/7 care. Services are customized to the specific needs of the client and their family.3. Non-Medical Support: Services include assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, light housekeeping, companionship, and transportation to appointments.4. Long-Term Option: Unlike Home Health, Private Duty care can be a long-term solution supporting individuals for months or years as their needs evolve.How They Work TogetherWhile Home Health and Private Duty care serve different purposes, they often complement each other. For instance, a patient may receive Home Health services after surgery to address medical needs but transition to Private Duty care for ongoing support with daily tasks once Home Health ends.Advantages of Danville Private DutyCareAt Danville Support Services, we are proud to offer high-quality Private Duty care tailored to your loved ones needs. Here are some of the unique benefits we provide:1. Bridging the Gap After Home Health: When Home Health services conclude, families may feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities of caregiving. Our Private Duty caregivers can step in to fill this gap ensuring your loved one continues to receive the support they need.2. Peace of Mind for Families: Private Duty care allows family caregivers to take a much-needed break. Whether youre planning a vacation, attending work, or managing personal commitments, you can rest assured that your loved one is in capable hands.3. Long-Term Care Insurance: If your private duty care provider has a home health license, they may take long-term care insurance. With this payment option, the client is reimbursed for the cost of their care by their insurance provider. 4. Reduced Hospital Readmissions: With consistent care and monitoring, our services help prevent complications that could lead to hospital readmissions.5. Licensed and Insured: We adhere to the highest standards of care, ensuring all our caregivers are licensed, insured, and well-trained.6. Continuous Training for Caregivers: Our caregivers undergo regular training to stay up to date with best practices ensuring the highest level of service.7. Nursing Services Available: In addition to non-medical care, we offer nursing services for clients who require occasional medical oversight in Salt Lake City.8. Serving Multiple Locations: We proudly serve Salt Lake City, Park City, and St. George, making it convenient for families across these regions to access our care.Why Choose Private Duty Care?Private Duty care provides a holistic approach to caregiving. It not only supports the physical well-being of individuals but also enhances their emotional and social health. Our caregivers provide companionship reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness which are common among older adults.In addition, Private Duty care is an excellent resource for families. The emotional and physical demands of caregiving can be overwhelming leading to burnout. By entrusting us with caregiving responsibilities, families can focus on building meaningful relationships with their loved ones without the stress of day-to-day tasks.Customizing Care for Your Loved OneAt Danville Support Services, we recognize that every individual has unique needs. Thats why we take the time to create personalized care plans for each client. Whether your loved one requires occasional assistance or round-the-clock care, well work with you to design a solution that fits your situation. You can reach us at 801-363-1521. Contact Us TodayIf youre navigating the complexities of Home Health versus Private Duty care, were here to help. Contact Danville Support Services to learn more about how we can support your family and provide the peace of mind you deserve or danvillesupportservices.com. Check out our Sandy Location List at Danville Support Services, or call us at (801) 363-1521.
The main difference between assisted living and nursing care (also known as skilled nursing care) lies in the level of care and support provided, as well as the residents needs and independence. Heres a breakdown of the differences:Level of CareAssisted Living:Assistance with Daily Activities: Assisted living is designed for people who need some help with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and mobility. However, residents are generally still independent and can manage many aspects of their daily routine without intensive medical care.Non-Medical Care: The care provided in assisted living typically focuses on personal care services like help with medication management, meal preparation, housekeeping, and transportation. However, it doesnt provide skilled medical care.Staffing: The staff in assisted living facilities are usually trained in personal care but are not licensed healthcare professionals (e.g., registered nurses, or certified nursing assistants) in most cases.Resident Independence: Assisted living communities are suited for people who can still live relatively independently but require help with certain daily tasks.Nursing Care (Skilled Nursing Care):Medical Care & Supervision: Nursing care is more intensive and focused on providing medical care and rehabilitative services. It is for individuals who need round-the-clock care, often due to chronic illnesses, complex medical conditions, or significant physical or cognitive impairments.Skilled Nursing Services: In addition to help with basic personal care, skilled nursing facilities offer nursing care, such as wound care, IV treatments, catheter care, physical therapy, and help with more complex medical needs. Residents often require frequent or constant attention from healthcare professionals.Registered Nurses (RNs): Nursing homes have licensed nurses on staff, including registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs), who are trained to handle medical treatments and provide direct healthcare.Medical Oversight: Residents in nursing homes typically have ongoing medical oversight from doctors or specialists, and they may have a care team that includes nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists.Type of ResidentsAssisted Living:Residents are usually elderly adults who have some physical or cognitive limitations but can live relatively independently with minimal help. They may need assistance with basic activities but dont require continuous medical monitoring.People who move into assisted living may have mild cognitive impairment (e.g., early stages of dementia or Alzheimers) or physical issues that prevent them from living entirely on their own, but they still have a good level of independence.Nursing Care:Residents are typically those with serious medical conditions, severe cognitive impairment (e.g., advanced Alzheimers disease or dementia), or those recovering from surgery or an injury and in need of ongoing medical attention.Nursing homes provide care for people who are no longer able to live independently, even with assistance, and require skilled medical or rehabilitative services.Medical and Health ServicesAssisted Living:Limited Medical Care: Assisted living facilities do not provide 24/7 medical care. They can help with basic health-related services like medication reminders and minor assistance with mobility, but they do not have medical staff available at all hours.Non-medical Support: The staff focuses on assisting with ADLs, maintaining a social and active lifestyle, and providing light housekeeping, meals, and transportation.Nursing Care:Comprehensive Medical Care: Nursing homes offer around-the-clock medical care and have licensed healthcare professionals like nurses on-site. They handle more complex medical issues, including the management of chronic illnesses, medication administration, wound care, physical therapy, and other medical treatments.Specialized Services: Nursing homes also provide specialized services for residents who need rehabilitative care, such as physical therapy or speech therapy.CostAssisted Living:Generally less expensive than nursing care, as the level of care is lower and more focused on personal assistance rather than medical care. Costs can range from $2,000 to $6,000 per month or more, depending on location, the type of services, and the level of assistance needed.Many facilities also have a variety of room options, such as private or shared apartments, which can affect pricing.Nursing Care:Nursing homes tend to be more expensive due to the higher level of medical care provided. Costs can range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more per month, depending on the level of care needed and the facilitys location.The costs are often covered by Medicare (for short-term stays), Medicaid (for long-term stays, based on financial eligibility), or private insurance (if applicable).Length of StayAssisted Living:Many people move to assisted living as a long-term solution to maintain their independence while receiving help with daily tasks. Its designed for those who plan to live there for an extended period, though some may eventually transition to nursing care if their needs increase.Nursing Care:Nursing care is typically a long-term solution for individuals who require ongoing medical supervision. Some residents may stay in nursing homes permanently, especially if they have chronic medical conditions, while others may only stay temporarily for rehabilitation or recovery after surgery, illness, or injury before returning home or transitioning to a less intensive care setting.Socialization and ActivitiesAssisted Living:Assisted living communities often focus on providing an active lifestyle for residents. Many offer social and recreational activities, fitness programs, outings, and other events to help residents stay engaged, mentally and physically active.Residents often have more independence, with private apartments or rooms, and can go out and socialize freely within or outside the community.Nursing Care:Nursing homes also provide activities for residents, but the focus is more on well-being and rehabilitation. The social activities tend to be more limited compared to assisted living, and residents may not have the same level of independence due to their medical or cognitive needs.Nursing homes may offer therapy programs, entertainment, or light recreation, but the primary focus is on medical care and patient recovery.Summary of Key DifferencesFeatureAssisted LivingNursing Care (Skilled Nursing)Level of CareBasic assistance with daily activities (ADLs)Round-the-clock medical and nursing careType of CarePersonal care, medication management, social activitiesMedical care, physical therapy, rehabilitationStaffingPersonal caregivers, no medical staff on-siteRegistered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), physical therapistsIndependenceHigher independence, semi-private or private living spacesLittle to no independence, often in shared roomsCostGenerally less expensive ($2,000 to $6,000/month)Generally more expensive ($5,000 to $10,000/month)Social ActivitiesActive lifestyle, outings, fitness programsLimited activities, focus on well-being and therapyLength of StayLong-term for independent residents needing helpLong-term for those needing continuous medical careConclusion:Assisted Living is ideal for individuals who need help with daily activities but do not require extensive medical care or supervision. It allows for more independence and is suitable for people who are mostly mobile and mentally alert.Nursing Care (Skilled Nursing) is best suited for individuals who need more intensive medical support, ongoing supervision, and care from licensed healthcare professionals. It is often appropriate for people with serious medical conditions or recovery needs.Your choice depends on the level of medical care and assistance you need, as well as your personal preferences for independence and lifestyle. If your needs are likely to increase over time, assisted living communities may provide an easier transition into a higher level of care, while nursing homes are meant for individuals with more complex needs.For more information, go to: www.seniorhousingsolutions.net
Rehabilitation Services Provided in Skilled Nursing FacilitiesRehabilitation services are a cornerstone of skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), designed to help individuals recover from illnesses, injuries, or surgeries and regain their independence. Heres a closer look at the rehabilitation services offered in skilled nursing facilities and their benefits.1. Physical TherapyPhysical therapy is a critical component of rehabilitation in skilled nursing facilities. It focuses on helping residents restore strength, mobility, and physical function after surgery, injury, or a medical event such as a stroke. Key aspects of physical therapy include: Strength Training: Exercises to rebuild muscle strength and endurance. Balance and Coordination: Techniques to prevent falls and improve stability. Mobility Exercises: Activities designed to improve range of motion, walking ability, and the use of mobility aids such as walkers or wheelchairs. By working closely with licensed physical therapists, residents can achieve improved independence and a better quality of life.2. Occupational TherapyOccupational therapy in SNFs is designed to help residents regain the skills needed for daily living. This therapy focuses on enhancing a persons ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, grooming, eating, and bathing. Specific interventions include: Adaptive Techniques: Teaching residents how to use assistive devices or modify tasks to suit their abilities. Fine Motor Skills Training: Improving dexterity for tasks like buttoning clothes or holding utensils. Energy Conservation Strategies: Helping residents manage fatigue and perform tasks more efficiently. Occupational therapists work with residents to restore independence and adapt to new physical or cognitive limitations.3. Speech TherapySpeech therapy addresses communication and swallowing difficulties that may result from strokes, neurological disorders, or other medical conditions. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in skilled nursing facilities focus on: Swallowing Therapy: Treating dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) to prevent complications like choking or aspiration pneumonia. Communication Training: Helping residents regain or improve their ability to speak, understand language, or use alternative communication methods. Cognitive Therapy: Assisting residents with memory, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Speech therapy improves both safety and quality of life by enabling residents to eat, communicate, and engage with others effectively.4. Specialized Rehabilitation ProgramsSkilled nursing facilities often provide rehabilitation programs tailored to specific conditions, including: Post-Stroke Rehabilitation: Combining physical, occupational, and speech therapies to address the multifaceted challenges of stroke recovery. Orthopedic Recovery: Rehabilitation for individuals recovering from joint replacement surgeries, fractures, or other musculoskeletal injuries. Cardiac Rehabilitation: Programs focused on improving heart health and endurance following heart attacks or surgeries. Neurological Rehabilitation: Care for residents with conditions such as Parkinsons disease, multiple sclerosis, or traumatic brain injuries. These specialized programs ensure that residents receive targeted care to address their unique recovery goals.5. Benefits of Rehabilitation Services in Skilled Nursing FacilitiesRehabilitation services in skilled nursing facilities offer numerous benefits, including: Faster Recovery: Access to expert care and tailored therapies helps residents recover more quickly. Enhanced Mobility and Independence: Therapy restores physical function and confidence, enabling residents to perform tasks on their own. Improved Quality of Life: Rehabilitation helps residents regain their abilities, reducing frustration and fostering a sense of accomplishment. Preventing Complications: Therapies such as swallowing training and balance exercises minimize risks like choking, falls, and re-hospitalization.
At Helping Hands Consulting, we specialize in assisting individuals find their way through the complicated maze of rules and regulations involved in obtaining government benefits. We streamline and simplify this process for you while working to promote maximum eligibility and approval rates. Our Eligibility Consultants have a combined 31 years of experience with long term care Medicaid at the State and county level, along with experience interpreting and implementing Long Term Care policies and procedures. Our clients are our most important asset, and we strive to develop lasting, trusting relationships by providing a unique and creative level of service that respects the dignity and integrity of our clients.