As a family member, caring for a family member is one of the most rewarding jobs you can do. You not only get to spend time with them but can also ensure that they receive quality care.
With the increase in older populations and age-related healthcare needs, the United States is becoming heavily dependent on unpaid family caregivers to look after their loved ones. Sometimes caregivers feel obligated to leave their jobs and become a personal caregiver while taking on an additional financial load. These family caregivers often need some financial support for the time they spend providing personal care for their loved one, and fortunately, there is a program that can help. Family caregivers spend their valuable time and often sacrifice income to care for their loved ones. They may take unpaid leaves and some even quit their jobs so they can fulfill the duties of caregiving for a family member. Those who quit their jobs lose their wages or salary and many benefits often associated with their employment, which can include retirement plans, healthcare coverage, and more. Through their work, they are saving government agencies and insurance companies billions of dollars and, fortunately, there are circumstances where they can be compensated for the important work that they perform.
As a family caregiver, you might qualify for financial assistance through the Medicaid home care program. This program allows family caregivers to receive payment of hourly wages for work performed. Individuals with low income may be eligible for Medicaid home care. This program offers help with in-home care to support activities such as bathing, cleaning, dressing, eating, and mobility. MOHealthnet is the Medicaid program for Missouri, providing health services for low income families and individuals, including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
Eligibility For The Program
In order to qualify for Medicaid home care, the applicant should be a Missouri resident and at least 18 years of age. The applicant should be able and eager to direct their own care and must have a physical disability which inhibits their ability to perform routine daily activities. Moreover, they must currently be enrolled in MOHealthnet. The eligibility of MOHealthnet is based on age, income, and assets of the applicant. The Medicaid personal care program for Missouri pays the caregivers' hourly rates and, through Access Personal Care®, the care recipient can select the caregivers of their choice, family members included, and can also set the hourly rate of pay for their caregivers.
Taking care of adults with disabilities can be quite expensive. There can often be out-of-pocket costs for medicine, equipment, in-home care and respite care, in addition to the previously mentioned sacrifices many family caregivers make. The extra income available through this Medicaid program can go a long way towards easing financial pressures of low-income families when a loved one develops a need for in-home care. Learn more about these services, and whether you or your loved one may qualify to receive services or to provide assistance as a caregiver by calling Access Personal Care ® at 816-822-7432.