Author: Meghan Parsons

Memory lapses: When to worry about dementia

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If you’re concerned about Alzheimer’s or dementia, you might mistake these “senior moments” for signs of mental decline. But there’s good news. Most memory lapses are nothing to worry about.

We’ve all had a memory lapses at one time or another. You can’t find your glasses anywhere — only to realize they’ve been on your head all along. Or you’re in the middle of a story and just can’t find the right word. (But it’s right there on the tip of your tongue!)

If you’re concerned about Alzheimer’s or dementia, you might mistake these “senior moments” for signs of mental decline. But there’s good news. Most memory lapses are nothing to worry about.

Beginning around age 45, you may notice everyday lapses happen more often. This is a natural part of aging. None of these are cause for alarm:

  • Absent-mindedness (such as forgetting your keys)
  • Not being able to retrieve a memory (the “tip-of-the-tongue” feeling)
  • Getting details wrong when recalling an event
  • Memories changing over time as you learn more information or talk to others
  • Memories changing because of your emotions in the current moment

When to seek help

Of course, some memory issues should prompt a visit to the doctor. One of the most common signs of trouble is suddenly forgetting how to do something you’ve done many times before. For example:

  • Getting lost in a familiar place
  • Neglecting hygiene, nutrition or safety
  • Becoming confused about the date or  year
  • Loss of short-term memory is also concerning. Signs include difficulty following directions or asking the same question over and over without retaining the answer.

Like the rest of the body, the brain shows signs of wear and tear as the years go by. Dementia risk increases steadily after age 65, so it is especially important for seniors to be watchful for these signs.

Heading off Alzheimer’s

So, if the risk of dementia rises with age, what’s a savvy senior to do? Studies have shown that the brain, like the rest of the body, improves with regular workouts. Exercising your mind doesn’t have to be a chore. Consider taking up one of these brain-building hobbies:

  • Gaming. A recent study suggested that older adults who played a fast-paced video game were 33 percent less likely to show signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease ten years later.
  • Volunteering. Give back to the community while keeping yourself sharp — libraries, animal shelters and soup kitchens are always looking for helping hands.
  • Gardening. In addition to being excellent physical exercise, gardening grows problem-solving skills and patience.
  • Music. Studies have shown that learning to play an instrument can enhance your memory, spatial reasoning and language skills.

Article Provided by:
Salem Health
503-814-5554
www.SalemHealth.org

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Grief: 10 Things NOT to say to someone grieving

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Grief is when someone close to us dies or begins hospice, it pulls on our heart, distracts our mind, and affects us physically. As a result, we feel fragile, or helpless. Well-intentioned friends try to console us, but struggle with what to say

Grief is when someone close to us dies or begins hospice, it pulls on our heart, distracts our mind, and affects us physically. As a result, we feel fragile, or helpless. Well-intentioned friends try to console us, but struggle with what to say. With recent experience being on the other side, I’d like to offer a few suggestions for what NOT to say to someone new to grief, and provide a few alternative comments.

1. “Cheer up. Your loved one wouldn’t want you to be sad.” When you care deeply for someone, you grieve deeply. You may need to be sad in order to get to the other side of grief.

2. “Focus on all the positive things in your life.” Even if someone appreciates the good things, that doesn’t change the feeling of monumental loss.

3.“She’s in a better place.” Even though the afterlife may seem spectacular, it doesn’t change the fact that my loved one is no longer with me, and I am sad because I have experienced that loss.

4.“Focus on all the good times.” Thinking about past memories can be painful, when you are realizing that you no longer have the opportunity to create new memories.

5. “How about those Seahawks?” Keeping conversations light is not a bad thing (depending on timing), but those grieving need someone who is willing to let them be real; someone who isn’t afraid to talk about the heavier topics.

6. “I know how you feel.” Sometimes a grieving person does not even know how they feel, so don’t pretend you do.

7. “She lived a full life.” Even if the person leaves an amazing legacy, it doesn’t account for time taken away.

8. “Call me if you need anything.” Instead, suggest a specific thing you will do- I will stop by next Wednesday with dinner, I will pick the kids up from school next week.

9. “She would not want you to be sad.” You honestly do not know what  someone else would want or how they would act.

10.“How are you doing?” This seems well intentioned, but it really just grazes the surface and 25 other people have already asked the question.

The common thread of the above comments is that it may feel that we are trying to minimize the situation.

Instead, try any of these:

  • I’m so sorry for your loss.
  • One of my favorite memories was when she…
  • I can’t imagine what you’re going through.
  • I don’t know how you feel, but I am here to help in whatever way you need me.
  • I wish I had the right words to say. Just know I care.

Personally, I had to learn to spend less time talking and more time listening.

Article Provided by:
www.RetirementConnection.com

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How to build a disaster supplies kit

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After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Make sure your disaster supplies kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Most of the items are inexpensive and easy to find, and any one of them could save your life.

After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

  • Water – one gallon of water per  person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
  • Food – at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
  • Flashlight
  • First aid kit
  • Extra batteries
  • Whistle to signal for help
  • Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic  sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
  • Manual can opener for food
  • Local maps
  • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Additional Emergency Supplies

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

  • Prescription medications
  • Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
  • Glasses and contact lens solution
  • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream
  • Pet food and extra water for your pet
  • Cash or traveler’s checks
  • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies,  identification, and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
  • Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
  • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Matches in a waterproof container
  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
  •  Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
  • Paper, pencil, books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children

Maintaining Your Kit

After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:

  • Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.
  • Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers
  • Replace expired items as needed.
  • Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.

Kit Storage Locations

Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and vehicles.

  • Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.
  • Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.
  • Vehicle: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.

Make a Plan

Next, determine any special assistance you may need, and include in your emergency plan.

Create a support network of family, friends, and others who can assist you during an emergency, and share your disaster plans with them. Practice your plan with them.

Make sure they have an extra key to your home, know where you keep your emergency supplies and how to use lifesaving equipment or administer medicine.

If you undergo routine treatments administered by a clinic or hospital, find out their emergency plans and work with them to identify back-up service providers.

If you have a communication-related disability, note the best way to communicate with you.

Don’t forget your pets or service animals. Not all shelters accept pets, so plan for alternatives. Prepare and emergency kit for your pet.

Consider loved ones or friends outside of your immediate area

A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is a simple, significant way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safer ways to get federal benefits:

Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. Federal benefit recipients can sign up by calling (800) 333-1795.

The Direct Express® prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper.

Article Resource:
Department of Homeland Security
www.Ready.gov

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Why your Will needs the advice of an attorney

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Writing your own Will can be like pulling your own tooth with a pair of pliers rather than going to the dentist.

Your will needs the advice of an attorney. It is possible to buy a Will form on-line and complete it on your own, without the help of an attorney. However, there are just so many things that can go wrong, from the wording of the document, to the required formalities of how it must be signed and witnessed before it can be valid. In spite of your best efforts, you may end up with a document that is no more effective than a notarized grocery list. Writing your own Will can be like pulling your own tooth with a pair of pliers rather than going to the dentist.

Most people that opt to prepare their own Will do so because they want to save money and don’t want to have to pay an attorney.  But, when mistakes are made, it is possible for their heirs and beneficiaries to spend thousands of dollars on court costs and attorney fees contesting a Will.  Even if no one contests your Will, the Court still has to follow the letter of the law. Many courts will not accept a Will if the Will is not properly executed (with the proper notarization and number of witnesses). Courts will also reject Will provisions that do not make sense. Even uncontested Wills can remain in expensive probate limbo.

Here are a few areas where things can go drastically wrong and where the advice of an attorney can be helpful:

1. Picking the right person as your Executor or Personal Representative.

2.  Putting conditions on a beneficiary’s right to receive inheritance.

3. Designating unusual end-of-life decisions.

4. Designating guardians for children.

5.  Coordinating beneficiary designations and your Will.

6. Dealing with blended families.

Even if your situation seems not that complicated, you can easily screw up filling out the forms.  I know of one situation where a Will left $200,000 to “{Insert name here}” rather than the intended beneficiary.  Also an attorney can flag issues that might be unique to your situation, such as providing for a disabled beneficiary or addressing long term care issues and Medicaid planning. Sometimes a trust will be the preferred method for managing an estate and avoiding probate.

On-line providers acknowledge that their services are “not a substitute for legal advice” and will often recommend that you consult your attorney before considering using their services.  For the cost of a few hours of attorney time, you can get an expertly drafted Will and legal advice, saving your heirs and beneficiaries confusion, time, and money.

Article Provided by:
Kathy Belcher
McGinty & Belcher Attorneys
503-371-9636
www.Mcginty-Belcher.com

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Alzheimer’s Network Program and Services

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As Alzheimer’s worsens over time, going from early stages to advanced, the responsibilities of the caregiver grow as well. Alzheimer’s network program and services is here to help.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive degenerative disease that not only affects the individual with loss of memory and cognitive abilities, but it also creates stress and significant hardships on the family who are often caregivers for their loved ones. As Alzheimer’s worsens over time, going from early stages to advanced, the responsibilities of the caregiver grow as well. All too often they are not prepared nor do they have an outlet to help them cope with the progressive loss of their loved one. Alzheimer’s network program and services is here to help.

At Alzheimer’s Network of Oregon, our vision is to help create an enlightened and empowered community where no one walks alone. Our mission is to provide compassionate support, education, and outreach to those impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias. 

Alzheimer‘s Network of Oregon Adult Day Center-  To open the Fall of 2017!

Our adult day center can help to make a difference in a caregiver’s life. For those that need respite care services, we offer a safe, nurturing environment that will promote interaction and socialization for their loved one. Our day center will allow the caregiver to take care of errands, take a much-deserved break during the day for personal time, while feeling secure and confident that their loved one is safe and in good hands. 

Our other programs and services include:

Music and Memory iPod program

Alzheimer’s Network is proud to be able to offer the Music and Memory program to individuals.  We know that music has the power to positively influence those with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Music creates moments for these individuals that elicit a positive interaction or emotions that facilitate cognitive function and stimulation.

Music Therapy

Our music therapy classes actively involve individuals in playing instruments and singing. Through their participation, they engage, laugh, sing and have fun.

Memory Screenings

We offer private memory screenings for individuals that are interested. The results are private and given to the individual to share with their Physician if warranted. It is not a diagnosis but merely a tool to be used to discuss with your clinician if you have other concerns.

Monthly Support Groups

Alzheimer’s Network offers monthly support groups for caregivers to meet with others that are in similar circumstances.

Care Navigation, Information and Referral Services and Educational Classes

We also offer educational classes and symposiums for caregivers, health care professionals and others that are interested.

Article Provided by:
Alzheimer’s Network
503-364-8100
www.Alznet.org

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How to choose a trustee

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Choosing a Trustee is not something to take lightly. When you have a living Trust, the bulk of your assets are owned by the Trust and, therefore, under the control of the Trustee.

Choosing a Trustee is not something to take lightly. When you have a living Trust, the bulk of your assets are owned by the Trust and, therefore, under the control of the Trustee. As long as you are capable (have legal capacity) of managing your own affairs, you are the Trustee. If you become incapacitated, the successor Trustee manages the assets in the Trust for your benefit. At your death, the Trustee is charged with managing or distributing the Trust Estate in accordance with the directions you provided in the Trust. Whom you name as Trustee depends greatly on your current situation and will most likely change over time. For instance, if you have young children, you will want to name someone to manage the estate for them should something happen to you. In this case, it is important to name someone who will manage the money for the children in the same way you would, and who will ensure it is used for the children’s best interests. The older we are, the more likely it is that someone will need to step in to assist us with our finances. While your children may be fine paying final expenses and closing up the estate, it is not a given that they are the best choice to take care of your finances if you are unable to manage them on your own. Family dynamics should be taken into consideration when deciding if children will be named as successor Trustees or not. If siblings do not get along, naming them as Co-Trustees could be disastrous. Even naming them one after the other could increase tensions between them, leading to higher costs in administering the estate (higher costs means fewer assets available to them for distribution). Or, the children may be lovely and wonderful and not so good with money. In this case, placing them in charge of your finances would seem less than ideal. When deciding on a Trustee, it is important to take into account all these factors. Often, it is a family member tasked with this job; however, it does not have to be and should not be unless there is a family member truly able and willing to do the work. If there is no one appropriate within the circle of family or friends, an outside, a neutral party may be the best choice. A professional fiduciary can be a perfect solution in this instance. As an estate planning attorney since 2001, I have seen time and time again where this is the better choice over the relative or friend. If you would like to discuss your specific situation with me, I would be happy to meet with you. My initial estate planning consultation is always free of charge, and I will help you determine the best course of action. As always, it is my honor and pleasure to serve.

Whom you name as Trustee depends greatly on your current situation and will most likely change over time. For instance, if you have young children, you will want to name someone to manage the estate for them should something happen to you. In this case, it is important to name someone who will manage the money for the children in the same way you would, and who will ensure it is used for the children’s best interests.

The older we are, the more likely it is that someone will need to step in to assist us with our finances. While your children may be fine paying final expenses and closing up the estate, it is not a given that they are the best choice to take care of your finances if you are unable to manage them on your own. Family dynamics should be taken into consideration when deciding if children will be named as successor Trustees or not. If siblings do not get along, naming them as Co-Trustees could be disastrous. Even naming them one after the other could increase tensions between them, leading to higher costs in administering the estate (higher costs means fewer assets available to them for distribution). Or, the children may be lovely and wonderful and not so good with money. In this case, placing them in charge of your finances would seem less than ideal.

When deciding on a Trustee, it is important to take into account all these factors. Often, it is a family member tasked with this job; however, it does not have to be and should not be unless there is a family member truly able and willing to do the work. If there is no one appropriate within the circle of family or friends, an outside, a neutral party may be the best choice. A professional fiduciary can be a perfect solution in this instance. As an estate planning attorney since 2001, I have seen time and time again where this is the better choice over the relative or friend. If you would like to discuss your specific situation with me, I would be happy to meet with you. My initial estate planning consultation is always free of charge, and I will help you determine the best course of action. As always, it is my honor and pleasure to serve.

Article Provided By:
Cheri Elson Sperber, Attorney at Law
Drescher
Elson Sperber, P.C.
info@AshlandOregonLaw.com
www.AshlandOregonLaw.com

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Estate planning

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Estate Planning: often avoided because “Estate planning is too confusing” or “I don’t have anything to leave behind.” By having an estate plan, however, one offers one’s family members peace of mind during a difficult period.

Estate Planning: often avoided because “Estate planning is too confusing” or “I don’t have anything to leave behind.” By having an estate plan, however, one offers one’s family members peace of mind during a difficult period.

The four main documents in an estate plan are: Will, Trust, Durable Power of Attorney for Finances, and Advance Directive for Health Care.

A Will is a legal instrument that permits a person to make decisions on how their estate will be distributed after death. Without a Will, State laws dictate how the estate is distributed. A Will does not avoid probate (the court-overseen process for distributing a person’s estate); however, it will ensure your assets are distributed to the people you desire.

One of the simplest ways to avoid probate is through a Trust. The three main “players” in a Trust are the Settlor (the person who’s trust it is, i.e. you), Trustee (the manager of the trust), and Beneficiary. In a conventional living Trust, the Settlor, Beneficiary, and Trustee are initially the same person. It is only when the Settlor (you) becomes unable to handle their own financial affairs that a successor Trustee (chosen by you) takes over the management of the Trust. The Trust assets are used for your benefit, with the remainder beneficiaries receiving an interest in the Trust only after your death (the way your estate passes under a Will).

The Durable Power of Attorney for Finances (DPA) names the person responsible for managing non-trust finances in the event you are unable to manage them yourself. Even in a Trust-centered estate plan, the DPA plays an important role, governing the assets held outside the Trust. In the event of your incapacity, your successor Trustee will take over and manage your Trust assets while your agent under the DPA will manage all non-trust assets.

An Advance Directive for Health Care allows you to name an agent to speak with the doctors and make health care decisions for you if you are unable to make them on your own.

When properly drafted, an estate plan is a powerful tool not only in the event of person’s death but also during the person’s life. When deciding on a professional to assist you in drawing up your estate plan, be sure to choose someone who specializes in this area of law, so that your plan works effectively not only after your death but during your life as well.

Estate plans are designed to grow and develop as we do and should be reviewed periodically. I recommend reviewing your plan on an annual basis – you may not need to change it each year, but looking at it each will help keep it fresh in your mind, as well as help ensure any necessary changes are caught and addressed quickly.

Article Provided By:
Cheri Elson Sperber, Attorney at Law
Drescher
Elson Sperber, P.C.
info@AshlandOregonLaw.com
www.AshlandOregonLaw.com

 

 

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 Creative ways to save on healthcare costs for seniors

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Feeling the pinch on your retirement pocketbook because of medical bills and healthcare needs? There are easier ways for seniors to stretch a dollar when it comes to their health and wellbeing. Don’t miss these 9 go-to tips:

Feeling the pinch on your retirement pocketbook because of medical bills and healthcare needs? There are easier ways for seniors to stretch a dollar when it comes to their health and wellbeing. Don’t miss these 9 go-to tips:

Find Out What Insurance Will Cover

Before you head to the pharmacy to buy a cane or walker over the counter, for example, find out if your insurance will cover the cost of one. With a direct medical order from a treating physician, insurance companies can cover some if not all of the cost of durable medical equipment or other healthcare products you may require.

Ask Your Doctor for Free Samples

One of those most expensive costs seniors cover is on medicine. Whether in need of a refill or starting a new prescription, it is worth asking your general practitioner or prescribing specialist if they have free samples in your dosage at their office that they can give you.

Get Free Preventative Care

An array of free preventative screenings, tests, and vaccinations are available to many seniors via their private health plans or Medicare. Save on medical costs down the line by taking preventative steps now with covered wellness checkups, colon, prostate, and breast cancer screenings, flu and pneumonia vaccines, and smoking-cessation counseling.

Rent Instead of Buy

Did you know that medical equipment is sometimes available to lease instead of purchasing? Mobility aids in particular are often available on a rent-to-buy basis, like a rental knee scooter or wheelchair. If recovering from injury or surgery, rental options might be more cost effective than a large upfront investment for medical equipment you will only need temporarily.

Offset Costs With Supplemental Income

Stretch your healthcare dollar by supplementing expenses with fresh income. Short of picking up a part-time job, seniors can also make extra cash selling collectibles and gently-used high dollar items online, tutoring or giving lessons for money, or renting out an extra room in their home.

Shop Online

Whether you’re looking to fill a doctor’s prescription or in need of a medical device you are paying for out of pocket, always look online. Prescription drugs are available internationally at a fraction of the cost you might pay at your own U.S. pharmacy, and with sites like PlanetDrugsDirect.com which require a prescription to process an order, the cheaper alternative is safe and legal. Online websites that sell medical equipment, vitamins, and other non-prescribed items often offer free shipping deals and discount promotions for first-time buyers too.

Get a Second Opinion

Thinking about investing in a high dollar piece of medical equipment or procedure your doctor has recommended? Sometimes it pays big to get a second opinion that helps you find a less expensive but just as effective alternative.

Use Coupons

Don’t pass by the coupon books and fliers your home pharmacy issues each month – they could help you with health care costs on vitamins, simple medical equipment, pain relief medications, incontinence supplies, and more. Websites like InternetDrugCoupons.com also offer you access to printable coupons you can use on a variety of medicines.

Get a Prescription

Some over the counter medicines, like those used to treat allergies, are also still available via prescription and can end up costing you way less when insurance is helping pick up the tab. In the same vein, generic versions of your brand name prescription might be just as effective for you but cost way less. Do a little research with your insurance provider and ask your physician to write you a prescription for effective, cheaper medicine that might otherwise cost you 5x as much off the aisle shelf.

Staying healthy as a senior shouldn’t break the bank. Simple tips, tricks and reminders can save you hundreds of dollars a year, if not more.

Article Provided by:
Joe Fleming
Co-Founder, Vive Health

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Anne Bellegia

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Sooner, or later, we or a loved one will experience a loss of independent functioning that requires care, either in the home or in a residential setting. Retirement Connection is an invaluable source of Information about and resources for providing this care. Few plan ahead for the need for assistance and decisions often must be made quickly. Older adults and their loved ones would be wise to keep a current copy handy for this situation. Better still, they should consider using this guide right now to establish a plan. Choices and decisions made in haste are often not the best. Retirement Connection also contains information about products and services that address the needs of aging adults and help preserve their independence.

What is skilled nursing?

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Is it the right time? What is skilled nursing? How much will it cost? These are great questions! Here is some basic information to get the answers you need!

Whether it’s a spouse, grandparent, sibling or dear friend, we all want what’s best for those we love. That’s why truth be told, we normally don’t think about skilled nursing facilities until the care they need is too much for ourselves or a caregiver to provide. Looking at skilled nursing facility placement, whether for a short stay post surgery or a more permanent arrangement, can be overwhelming.

Is it the right time? What is skilled nursing? How much will it cost? These are great questions! While answers may very slightly depending on the exact situation, here is some basic information that you can feel con dent using when looking into making this important decision.

What is skilled nursing?

A skilled nursing facility is designed to help care for patient’s who have needs which require 24-hour, 7 days a week nursing care including tube feeding, complex wound care, IV antibiotics, and daily therapy.

Candidates for skilled nursing are both those who have planned surgeries/ procedures (hip or knee replacement etc.) and those who have an acute and unplanned medical issue (UTI, sepsis, cellulitis, etc…) At the hospital, the patient will be assigned to a case manager who will be responsible for letting the patient and family know that skilled nursing is recommended, ask which facility they prefer and work with the facility of choice to facilitate the admission. Of course, always feel comfortable stopping in to see the Admission Coordinator at your local skilled nursing facility to ask any questions, discuss concerns and get a clear picture of how the admission process will look.

Not all skilled nursing residents are there for short-term rehabilitation from a surgery or illness. Some residents are there under what is called long-term care. Long-term care (LTC) is designed to care for those who will need round the clock nursing care for the foreseeable future. Usually, these residents have a terminal condition, disability, or illness which impacts their ability to safely manage activities of daily living. These types of admissions will also go through the Admission Coordinator at the skilled nursing facility, so they should be able to answer any and all questions you may have.

While most skilled nursing facility patients come after a hospital stay, it is possible to admit from home. If your loved one has met the qualifying hospital stay within the last 30 days, they may

be able to admit with help from their primary care provider. It is best to start by calling the skilled nursing facility of choice to review your options. They will walk you through the process from there.

How is it covered?

Medicare covers skilled nursing care as long as the patient meets what is called a “qualifying hospital stay”. This means that your loved one was an inpatient in a hospital for three consecutive midnights. It’s important to note that an emergency room visit, observation stay, and outpatient services do not count towards the qualifying stay. If the qualifying hospital stay is met, Medicare will pay for up to 100 days (as long as the patient meets skilled criteria). The rest 20 days are paid for 100% by Medicare, days 21-100 will have a co-pay; for 2017 the amount is $164.50 per day. If the patient has a supplemental insurance or Medicaid, that plan will often pick-up the co-pay for them.

Some people choose to have an insurance company manage their Medicare bene ts. Examples of these types of plans include Healthnet, Care Oregon, MODA and Regence MedAdvantage.

For someone who has these insurances, the qualifying hospital stay can be overridden if the insurance company feels it’s warranted. The assigned case manager at the hospital will work with the insurance company to get authorization. If the patient is coming from a doctor’s office or from home, the admissions coordinator along with the patient’s Primary Care Provider can work together to try and request an insurance authorization.

For someone looking for Long-Term Care placement, Medicaid is the most common payer. Anyone who doesn’t have Medicaid would most likely pay privately.

It’s important to remember that there are people who work in this profession/ industry and it’s their job to make sure this process isn’t any more dif cult than it needs to be. Never hesitate to call your local skilled nursing facility’s admissions coordinator to nd out if skilled nursing is the correct route to take for your loved one.

Article Provided by:
Hearthstone, Avalon Health Care Group
541-779-4221
www.avalonhealthcare.com

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