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Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential candidate, has proposed expanding Medicare coverage for the in-home care services.
Appearing Tuesday on the ABC show “The View,” Harris proposed providing federal funding to cover home care costs for older Americans, aiming to help the sandwich generation of adults caring for aging parents while raising their own children at the same time, according to an Associated Press (AP) story.
According to the AP, Harris “promised that if, elected in November, she will seek to expand Medicare, the federal health insurance program for older Americans, so that it covers long-term care and includes services like in-home aides.”
“Strengthening Medicare to cover home care for our nation’s seniors and those with disabilities is good for families and our economy—and it is common sense,” Harris said in a Facebook post.
“I took care of my mother when she was sick with cancer—I know that caregiving is about dignity, Harris wrote in another Facebook post about her appearance on “The View.” “My plan will allow Medicare to cover in-home health care, which will lower costs and reduce the financial and emotional stress for families across the country.”
Watch the Video of Kamala Harris Explaining Her Proposal
Harris said aides could help seniors do things as simple as preparing meals or putting on sweaters because it is “about dignity for that individual. It’s about independence for that individual,” AP reported.
“Any potential expansion of Medicare coverage for home care is wonderful news, though the details will be important,” said Homecare Choices Executive Director Peter Carey. “Should Vice President Harris win the election and move forward with this proposal, Homecare Choices and our experienced, compassionate caregivers stand ready to provide a full range of in-home care for seniors and others on Cape Cod and the Islands.”
Contact Homecare Choices for a Free Consultation
Carey said it’s important to note that Medicare already covers the cost of some in-home care services.
According to AARP, the key to qualifying for some paid services is whether your loved one is “homebound.”
AARP explains: “Medicare, the government’s medical insurance for people age 65 and older and younger people receiving Social Security disability benefits, isn’t designed to pay for 24-hour care for a loved one at home. But with a doctor’s orders and plan of care, costs may be covered for several necessary services for loved ones who are homebound because of a chronic illness or injury.”
Caregivers whose services may be covered include home health aides, medical social workers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and skilled nurses.
However, services are restricted to either fewer than seven days a week or to less than eight hours a day for up to 21 days, according to AARP.
Those seeking in-home care now for themselves or a family member, or who want to learn more about Homecare Choices and its services, should reach out to Peter Carey by phone at 508-313-2529, or by email at petercarey@homecarechoices.com, or use the contact form on the website and free consultations are offered.