Frequently asked questions
Caring for an elderly loved one is a difficult job. One that you take very seriously. Despite your best efforts, however, at times it can be overwhelming. You not only must deal with issues like confusing behavior, forgetfulness, wandering and dementia, but also with bill paying, conflicting diagnoses from specialists, insurance claims and more. It can be confusing. It's as if you're trying to piece together a puzzle, and often the pieces simply don't fit.Following are some of the most frequently asked questions we hear.
Contact Us with questions you may have.
Q. How much do your services cost?
A. We have a set Fee Schedule. To receive a copy, e-mail emily@ContinuumSeniorCare.com.
Q. Are fees paid for by Medicare / Medi-Cal?
A. Neither government program covers Care Management…even though we regularly prevent over use of Emergency Room visits and return visits to the hospital.
Q. Do you take care of paying the other service providers such as physical therapists that you recommend? Or do they invoice us?
A. This depends on the agreement made in the care plan. We have clients using both methods. On thing for sure, we would probably get insurance or Medicare to pay most of the Physical Therapy.
Q. Do your fees qualify for medical deductions on Mom's income tax?
A. Sometimes. Be sure to consult with your tax preparer. For example, if the care management fees are for medical considerations such as medication set up, or consulting with physicians, etc., that portion may be deductible. Arranging for plumbing repair, probably not.
Q. I'd really like someone to watch over my dad, but he probably won't let you in.
A. You might be surprised at how often we hear that from family members. However, getting turned away has only happened once to us since we opened in 1995. Our Care Managers have the training and the experience working with the elderly and with folks who have dementia. We are most likely able to manage most anything your Dad can dish out. It may take a couple tries!
Q. My Dad was recently diagnosed with MCI. Do we have to place him in a Convalescent Home?
A. Not now and maybe never. MCI, or Mild Cognitive Impairment, is a somewhat non-specific, but increasingly made diagnosis. It may be as mild as a bit of confusion or forgetfulness. Some people with MCI can still hold their jobs. Others, like councilors and teachers, will probably need to retire early. I suggest that you have a care management assessment to get an idea of your Dad's global deficits. He should probably be reassessed yearly, or as symptoms appear or worsen.