As an Elder Care Coordinator with the Law Office of Jane M. McNamara, I know the importance of an effective advocate for an aging senior. Usually that advocate is a family member, but sometimes friends and neighbors must act in that role. I routinely assist these family advocates, and guide them through the “maze” of hospital and long-term care issues for their senior parent. These issues typically involve hospice, obtaining proper care, and skilled nursing facilities (nursing homes). I help the families ask the right questions to ensure their parent receives the best care and services.
I typically see senior patients admitted to the hospital for at least three days, and then discharged to a skilled nursing facility. After admission to the facility, the patient often stays approximately four to six weeks. During the first week the facility organizes a “Care Plan” meeting. Assessments must be done within seven days of admission and at least once a year after that. Reviews are held every three months and any time the patient’s condition changes.
This important meeting includes the Nursing Case Manager and the therapy departments (Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapies). Dietician and activity representatives are also included. Medications are reviewed, and if additional services or medical attention is needed – this is the time to ask for it. During the meeting, the facility staff must address all the needs of the senior patient, and develop a “Plan of Care.” It is critical that the advocate understand the parent’s needs, understand the patient rights, and be the “voice” for their parent. Otherwise, it is very possible their needs will go unmet and their preferences unnoticed.
The advocate must also understand that insurance (Medicare) will not cover the care in the facility for the long-term. The advocate should ask for an estimate of when the insurance will terminate coverage at the skilled nursing facility. Keep open communication with the staff – there should be no surprises regarding the parent’s care, or when the parent will need to begin “privately paying” for their care. And, if funds are an issue, it is essential to know the eligibility rules regarding Medi-Cal.
Lisa Kryszewski is a L.V.N. and Elder Care Coordinator for the Law Office of Jane M. McNamara.
For more information, please visit www.JaneMcNamara.com or call 661-287-3260 for an appointment.