What are Homemaker/Home Health Aide (H/HHA) Services?
Taking care of another can be mentally and physically demanding. A spouse or an individual trying to do it all can quickly become depressed, injured or just worn out. A Homemaker/Home Health Aide is a trained caregiver who can come to a Veteran’s home and help the Veteran take care of themselves and their daily needs.
A Homemaker/ Home Health Aide can also be used as a way to get Respite Care at home for the family caregiver. They can help Veterans remain living in their own home.
Homemaker/Home Health Aides are not nurses, but they are supervised by a registered nurse who oversees the Veteran’s daily living needs. They are trained, licensed, bonded and insured caregivers. Homemaker/Home Health Aides work for contracted, VA-approved organizations that specialize in assisting Veterans who need skilled services such as assistance with activities of daily living or instrumental activities of daily living. Services can be used in combination with other Home and Community Based Services.
Who is Eligible?
Homecare services are part of a service within the VHA Standard Medical Benefits Package, all enrolled Veterans are eligible if they meet the clinical need for the service. There is no age requirement.
A co-pay for Homemaker/Home Health Aide services may be charged based on the veteran’s VA service-connected disability status.
Services are based on the veteran’s assessed needs. A veteran or family caregiver can talk with a VA social worker to find out what specific help they may be able to receive. For example, a caregiver may be able to come to the home daily, several times a week or just once in a while, depending on veteran’s needs and what the VA has approved.
What services can I get?
A brief list of daily activities you may be able to receive help with include:
- Eating
- Getting dressed
- Bathing
- Using the bathroom
- Moving from one place to another
- Shopping for food
- Cooking & Cleaning
- Doing laundry
- Taking medication
- Getting to appointments
- Using the telephone
What about help for the spouse caring for a veteran (Respite Care)?
For the Family Caregiver, it can be hard to find time for a much-needed break from the daily routine and care responsibilities. Respite care is time for relaxing and renewing energy. If a Veteran requires a Caregiver, the spouse is eligible to receive up to 30 days of respite care per year. The care can be offered in a variety of settings including in your home.
Respite care may also be provided after family caregiver’s unexpected hospitalization, a need to go out of town,
or a family emergency. Staying strong, caring for your Veteran means staying strong yourself. By taking an opportunity
to be refreshed through respite care, you may be amazed at how your fresh outlook will help you and your Veteran.
Article Provided by:
At Home Senior Solutions
541-772-7070
www.AtHomeSeniorSolutions.com