For most people, keeping a house clean is an annoying chore. For some seniors, however, it can be physically challenging, and becomes even more so with age. While we hope no one needs to turn to outside help to get it done and we're all fit as a fiddle by 105 years old, Medicare can offer some help for when things become less than ideal.
Take a look at the following information to learn more about Medicare-covered house cleaning services and understand how to apply and who qualifies.
It's true that Medicare usually doesn't cover housekeeping, as it is not considered a medical service. That being said, it's not always the case.
Medicare Part A or Part B may cover light housekeeping as part of home health services if one's health care provider deems it medically necessary. Some examples include chronic illness management and surgery recovery – these situations may grant a senior access to medicare coverage for partial home health aide services, such as limited cleaning.
Qualifications and eligibility
Getting access to Medicare-covered cleaning services doesn't come without its fair share of bureaucracy, but don't let that scare you. The first criterion that needs to be met is having a physician state that the applying senior does, in fact, need such a service as part of their care plan. In addition, the senior will have to be homebound and need assistance to leave their house. It's important to remember that in order for Medicare to cover the service, it must be due to medical needs.
What types of services are covered?
While Medicare paying for a full-time live-in housekeeper is not going to happen, they might approve limited assistance with some housekeeping to-dos. The assistance will be performed by certified home health agencies and will primarily target routine activities like bathing and dressing the senior in need. However, tasks such as laundry or dusting may also be included, should the senior have a medical justification for them (like a weakened immune system).
How to apply?
The first thing that the senior in need or their caregivers should do is to consult with a healthcare provider. The point of such a consultation is to assist the senior’s needs for home health services. Once the service is deemed necessary, the healthcare provider will need to create a care plan that refers the senior to a Medicare-certified home Health agency to get it. It is important to only contact a Medicare-certified agency to make sure the process runs smoothly and regularly.
Costs and coverages
Home Health Services are covered at least partially under Medicare Part A or Part B. That being said, the service will be limited in terms of hours or duration (like the hours per day or the number of days a week). One might need to pay extra for anything more.
What are the alternatives?
Medicare is a good option, but it is not the only option. If a senior does not qualify for the Medicare-covered service, it is advised that they look into options such as Medicaid (which might be helpful for lower-income individuals), nonprofits, and community initiatives. Do your research online or check with similar individuals to find the kind of support you need.
