Care Champions receives funding from our trusted care partners. When a family chooses to utilize the services of a partner, that provider compensates Care Champions. This allows Care Champions to offer this service free to families.

Medicare does not cover the costs associated with senior living facilities, such as assisted living, but it does pay for skilled nursing facilities under certain conditions. However, Medicare does cover home healthcare and hospice services, which can be provided for residents in assisted living facilities.

Medicare provides coverage for short-term rehabilitation stays in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). While skilled nursing facilities and long-term care facilities serve similar functions, they are categorized differently and reimbursed based on distinct criteria. Patients in a skilled nursing facility are typically there for a limited period to receive rehabilitation services. If, however, a patient is deemed unfit to return home and does not qualify for assisted living, they may transition to long-term care within the nursing home setting.

Long-term care nursing home care is an out-of-pocket expense; however, for those with limited funds, Medicaid does provide coverage for costs associated with long-term care in nursing homes.

Assisted living communities provide supportive services for individuals who require assistance with activities of daily living like dressing, bathing, and medication management, but they do have limitations for clinically complex patients that require more intensive care.

In contrast, nursing homes offer comprehensive medical care and supervision for individuals with more intensive health needs, often including 24-hour nursing staff and specialized services for chronic or severe health conditions.

If you are not sure what the appropriate level of care is, contact us. A Senior Care Specialist will conduct a needs assessment, which will help to determine what level of care could be appropriate. Contact us.

Medicare and Medicaid are two distinct government programs that provide health coverage, but they serve different populations and have unique eligibility requirements in Tennessee. Medicare is a federal program primarily designed for individuals aged 65 and older, although it also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific health conditions, such as end-stage renal disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Medicare offers various parts that cover hospital care (Part A), medical services (Part B), and prescription drugs (Part D), allowing beneficiaries to receive coverage tailored to their health needs.

On the other hand, Medicaid is a state and federal program that provides health coverage for low-income individuals and families, including children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those with disabilities. In Tennessee, the Medicaid program is known as TennCare and offers comprehensive medical services to eligible residents. Unlike Medicare, Medicaid focuses on providing assistance based on income and family size. These differences highlight the distinct purposes of each program: Medicare serves primarily the elderly and disabled, while Medicaid aims to support low-income individuals and families in accessing essential health care services.

Determining whether a parent needs assisted living can be a challenging and emotional process. One of the first signs to consider is a noticeable decline in their ability to perform daily activities. This may include difficulties with personal care tasks such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and eating. If your parent is increasingly struggling to maintain their hygiene or manage their meal preparation, it may indicate that they require additional support to ensure their safety and well-being.

Another important factor to assess is the state of their home environment. If you notice that their living space is becoming increasingly cluttered or dirty, it may signal a decline in their ability to manage household responsibilities. Additionally, frequent incidents such as missed appointments, unpaid bills, or forgetfulness about medications can be concerning. These indicators often suggest that they may not be managing their day-to-day affairs effectively, warranting a closer look at their overall living situation.

Lastly, consider any recent changes in their physical or mental health. Sudden weight loss, increased isolation, or changes in mood can suggest that your parent is struggling with their health or mental wellness. If they exhibit signs of confusion, memory loss, or disorientation, it may point to cognitive decline. In such cases, exploring assisted living options can provide them with the necessary support and care they need to maintain a safe, healthy, and fulfilling lifestyle. Observing these changes carefully and discussing them openly with your parent can help guide the decision-making process.