The needs of older Americans have changed since the Social Security Act of 1965 signed Medicare insurance into existence. Today, many people are active and independent well into their 70's and 80's.
They are able to maintain significant levels of independence compared to their predecessors. However, when the time comes for more help than is provided by assisted living facilities or respite care, there are still options that are covered by insurance. Nursing homes and skilled nursing care facilities offer both long and short-term care options. They are licensed and inspected by the State Department of Health Services.
These facilities offer care for those with temporary or permanent health issues that are too complex or severe for home care or assisted living services. They are the most appropriate option for patients who need ongoing rehabilitative therapy.
They employ licensed health care provides who are trained specifically to handle this level of health care needs. In most cases, they are covered by Medicare insurance. Although services vary from one facility to another, most provide medical treatment that is prescribed by the patient's primary care physician. Therapies that are provided include speech, physical and occupational.
At this level, most people who are receiving inpatient care require assistance with activities such as walking, bathing and using the toilet. Case management and social services are also provided to ensure the patient's rights are protected.
Medicare insurance covers specialized care programs for those who suffer from Alzheimer's and other similar conditions. Depending on the circumstances, short-term respite care for frail seniors or disabled individuals may also be covered. There are several requirements to qualify for coverage in this type of facility. The individual must have Medicare Part A and hospital stay days left in the benefit period.
There must have been at least three days spent in a hospital and entry to the facility must take place within 30 days of discharge. For Medicare insurance to cover these services, an individual must have a medical condition that began while they were receiving care in a Medicare-covered skilled nursing facility.
Doctors' visits, meals, and prescription drugs are among the items commonly covered. However, there are many other services Medicare will pay for as well. They include semiprivate room rates, meals, prosthetic devices and medical supplies and equipment. Since its inception, there have been many changes to this federally funded program. They meet the needs of today's active seniors and offer options when illness becomes complex.