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Does Vermont Pay for Home Health Care?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
Vermont pays for home health care for seniors who are on a low income and who require a nursing home level of care. The Choices for Care Medicaid waiver covers the cost of home health care services. In-home personal care support is also offered through the Attendant Services Program, and the High Technology Home Care Program provides skilled nursing services to homebound seniors who may benefit from medical technology. Many of these programs are overseen by Vermont Health Connect.
Home health care services can help seniors avoid premature placement in a nursing home. Medicare does not usually cover the cost of this kind of care, but state Medicaid and non-Medicaid programs offer financial aid for those with the greatest needs.The Choices For Care Moderate Needs Group Helps Seniors Live Independently
The main Choices for Care waiver is aimed at seniors who require a nursing home level of care. Those with slightly lower care needs, who still struggle to live independently, can take advantage of the Moderate Needs Group element of the program. The eligibility criteria for this program are broader, and those who are not eligible for Medicaid are welcome to apply.
Help With Home Modifications Is Also Available
The Home Access Program offers help with home modifications such as bathroom modifications or access ramps. It can also cover wheelchairs, walkers and other mobility aids. The program is open to people of all ages who are living with a disability or who have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, Parkinson’s disease or a similar medical condition that limits their mobility. The goal of these programs is to help seniors remain in their own homes by making it easier for them to attend to common personal care tasks unaided.