Legal Resources

Tips For Caregiving

Q: Is there any government regulation of nursing homes?
A: In 1987 the Home Reform Act (NRA) was passed that covers many details of resident care including rights, staffing, quality of care, restraints, privacy, and record keeping. This law applies to any facility which receives funding under Medicaid or Medicare. The Home Reform Act set standards for long-term care, established rights for residents, and, created a monitoring system for facilities. States have also created their own regulations on long-term care and services including licensing requirements, annual inspections, complaint procedures, impose consequences for violations, and conducts investigation per any reports of any negligence.

Q: How does my health history affect the cost of my long-term care insurance?
A: Your health affects both the cost of your long-term care insurance and your eligibility for coverage. If you have chronic health problem you will probably pay a higher premium for coverage because you could need long-term care sooner than if you were in good health. Sometime if you have pre-existing conditions you may not qualify at all of long-term care insurance.

Q: How can I improve the safety of my home?
A: Move your bedroom to the first floor to eliminate the possibility of a fall down the stairs Flooring should be secure. Check often for broken tiles or loose carpeting that could impede your footing. When purchasing throw rugs make sure they have a non-skid rubber backing. Put your small electrical devices (coffee makers, hot plates etc.) on timers in the even that you would forget about them. Secure any loose cords under carpeting or tacked to walls to prevent falls.

Q: How do I determine what level of care is necessary?
A: There are many different types of services including: Home care, Adult Day Care, Respite Care, Hospice, and Residential Care.
Home Care: allows they elderly to live in the home – occasionally, may be visited by nurses to help with bathing and supervise medical care
Respite Care: gives the caregiver a break from their daily tasks
Hospice Care: usually for the terminally ill – six months or less – provides an in-home atmosphere and constant attention from medical professionals
Residential Care: care at a nursing home

Q: What is Power of Attorney?
A: Power of Attorney is a signed document that allows you to act or perform on behalf of an elder person. The individual can still act for themselves but grants you the right to care for their finances and banking needs. One must act with the best interest of the elderly person in mind and the Power of Attorney can be relinquished at any time.