Are there any agencies that can help give care to my father who requires 24 hour care?
My 85 year old father is in failing health. He has to have 24 hour care. My sister and niece are doing everything they can but they have full time jobs. I live 2 hours away and also have a full time job. Is there any agencies available and at what price? He is a veteran and I'm sure he has medicare.
Expert Answer
Yes, there are agencies who will help you set up home care for your frail father. 24 hour care is very expensive, but sometimes you don't need that much help. What you need is someone who will help you set up care. I recommend a professional geriatric care manager to come to your father's home to assess for you. After assessment it will possible to find either an in-home care agency or a registry. The care manager will be able to steer you to toward the best agency for your father's needs. Allthough the care manager will not be inexpesive, it will save money. Good care is always more practical than inferior care. To find a nearby care manager go to www.caremanager.org. Your father may be eligible for a veteran's pension. You may need help with the application. Here are two sites. www.vba.va.gov/bin/21/pension/vetpen.htm or www.veteranaid.org