Physical disabilities, whether permanent or temporary, often pose challenges to daily life by limiting a person’s mobility, energy, or flexibility. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Community Survey (ACS) estimate that about 61 million adults, or 26% of the population, have some type of disability that impacts major life activities, with one in seven adults having a disability that limits their mobility. About 9% of adults over 18 years of age, and 19.3% of adults over the age of 65, report having great difficulty or inability in at least one domain of daily functioning. For many of these individuals, in-home care for disabled adults will be the best way to have their needs supported while still managing to live an independent, fulfilling life at home.
What Does A Caregiver Do For Disabled Adults?
Caregivers can provide assistance with a wide range of tasks, including:
- Personal care – grooming, bathing, and assistance with daily tasks
- Homemaking – light housekeeping, small purchases, and meal preparation
- Transportation – to and from appointments, errands, or social activities
- Companionship – conversation, board games, reading, hobbies, etc.
How Much Does In-Home Care For A Disabled Adult Cost?
The cost of in-home care varies depending on the client’s location as well as their particular needs. On average, a private caregiver can cost around $24 an hour, or $300-800 per day for 24-hour care services.
Does Social Security Pay For In-Home Care?
Although Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits do not directly cover the cost of a caregiver, seniors can use their discretionary benefits to fund in-home care services in addition to daily necessities such as food, household supplies, and transport. Those who qualify for SSI could potentially qualify for Medicaid as well, which may cover the cost of in-home care for a disabled adult.
However, it is important to note that benefits may not completely cover the cost of care services. It is recommended in all cases to consult with experts, such as an established in-home care agency in your area, for advice before settling on a in-home care plan. In-home care agencies work with government bodies to ensure that clients’ needs are taken care of. For example, Nova Home Care will help clients secure their entitlements through Medicaid, saving clients time and money as well as the hassle involved with the bureaucratic process.
Advantages Of In-Home Care For Disabled Adults
There are many benefits of choosing in-home care as opposed to an assisted living facility, including:
- Personalized care – With home care, adults with physical disabilities can work together with the care agency to create a personalized care plan tailored to their unique needs and preferences. This individualized attention fosters a sense of agency, dignity, and self-esteem.
- Familiar and safe surroundings – Staying in one’s own home is not only comforting, but it is also safer for people with disabilities to navigate. Furthermore, staying at home allows one to maintain a level of independence and self-reliance with the support of a caregiver which is not possible in an institution.
- Connection with loved ones – Social isolation is a significant concern for individuals with physical disabilities, as they may face barriers to accessing community spaces. In-home care addresses this by facilitating regular interaction with family, friends, and neighbors.
- Cost-effective – In-home care often costs less than institutional care, as there are fewer overheads and you only pay for the care that the individual needs, rather than the whole facility service.
How To Get In-Home Care For Disabled Adults
Getting in-home care for a disabled adult starts with contacting a home care agency in your area. The easiest and fastest way to arrange home care for an adult is via referral (e.g., from a hospital, clinic, therapist, or family member) or direct contact with the home care agency. The agency will then conduct an assessment of your care needs and consult with the potential client and family to arrange a personalized care plan.
If you live in Indiana, Arizona, Colorado, Minnesota, or Connecticut, then contact Nova Home Care or use our referral form to start your journey toward a dignified, independent life at home with support from a dedicated caregiver.