Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
If you can’t find an answer to your question, contact us at the form on the right, or give us a call directly at 844-724-1777 to get answers to your specific needs.
What is Care Management?
The services of a professional who addresses an individual’s needs (medical care, personal care, medication monitoring, home safety and socialization). Care Managers coordinate with doctors, family members, trust officers, accountants and other members of an older adult’s support network.
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Who is a Geriatric Care Manager?
A Geriatric Care Manager is a professional with a clinical or graduate degree in social work, nursing or psychology who specializes in assisting older adults and their families with long-term care arrangements. A Geriatric Care Manager is trained and experienced in the assessment, coordination, monitoring and direct delivery of services to older adults and their families.
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Who uses our services?
Seniors who wish to remain at home, but who may desire companionship, and need help with the activities of daily living or have some impairments; relatives living at a distance; and professionals such as attorneys, accountants and court-appointed guardians.
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What is the difference between a Companion/Homemaker and a Home Health Aide?
A companion or homemaker prepares meals, does light housekeeping and provides companionship. In addition to the services provided by a companion or homemaker, a Certified Home Health Aide is allowed to provide hands-on care such as bathing and dressing. A Certified Home Health Aide has completed a 76-hour training program with supervision. There are no training requirements for a companion or homemaker.
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How do I decide on a schedule for home care?
Consider when it would be most helpful for you and your loved one to have someone there. It’s important to have a routine that works for both of you. You need to get out, but a spouse or parent may only be comfortable eating or getting dressed at certain times. We’ll be glad to lend our expertise to figure out what’s best.
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Can the Home Health Aide drive and run errands?
Springpoint at Home allows aides to drive clients to appointments and for errands.
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Am I responsible for providing food for the aide?
If the Home Health Aide is working eight or more hours a day, then food should be provided. Some older adults, particularly those who are not eating enough, will benefit from the socialization of sharing a meal.
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What should I do if the Home Health Aide requests a change in the terms of employment, such as schedule, time off or pay?
These issues shouldn’t come up with Springpoint at Home care givers. If an issue like this does arise, please contact us.
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What can I expect from the Registered Nurse?
The nurse conducts a health assessment and is required to supervise the care the Home Health Aide delivers. By law, the nurse must conduct a home visit every other month, with a phone call on the alternating months.
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Is it appropriate to ask a Home Health Aide to do house cleaning?
A Home Health Aide will do light housekeeping as it relates to the older adult. For example, the Aide will clean the kitchen after preparation of a meal. Home Health Aides are not house cleaners. Make sure your loved one understands the difference.
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What are my tax-paying obligations?
All taxes for your care givers and care management consultants are the responsibility of Springpoint at Home. This makes life much simpler than it would be if you were to hire an individual directly.
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Can home care expenses qualify as a medical deduction?
Yes. Home care costs may qualify as medical expenses. We recommend that you maintain adequate documentation and consult your tax professional for details.
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What are my options if the Home Health Aide and my parent are not compatible?
As in all new relationships, there is a period of adjustment. Give it a little time. If you’re still not satisfied, we’ll be glad to provide you with a different Home Health Aide.
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How are services paid for?
Springpoint at Home services are billed on an hourly basis. Home care and care management services are priced separately. Fee schedules are available on request. Springpoint at Home will coordinate billing for long-term care insurance but does not accept assignment of benefits.
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Still have questions? Contact us online or call us at 844-724-1777.
