Did you know that more than 1 in 6 working Americans report assisting with the care of an elderly or disabled family member, relative or friend? Or that caregivers working at least 15 hours per week indicated that this assistance significantly affected their work? And, of those that identified as full-time workers acting as caregivers, they reported missing an average of 6.6 workdays per year, which amounts to 126 million missed workdays each year?
When you consider that the cost of lost productivity due to caregiving to U.S. businesses is $17.1 to $33 billion annually, it’s clear that the business case for providing support to this population leads to positive results for both employers and employees.
That’s why a comprehensive Senior Care Management program can be monumentally helpful to caregivers. This employee benefit can assist with understanding an aging loved one’s care needs, identifying resources available and also assist with implementing care recommendations, improving employee productivity and retention.
Here are some best in class components of a comprehensive Senior Care Management employee benefit program.
In-Person Assessment
It is common for people to want to stay in their home and be as independent as possible for as long as possible. Aging and disabilities can make staying in an individual’s home challenging, and sometimes dangerous. A care manager can meet with the individual in their home, along with family members, to discuss current health problems and disabilities. The care manager can also evaluate the home to determine how to make it better equipped to meet the individual’s care needs. Recommendations such as removing scatter rugs and adding grab bars in the shower may help someone who is prone to falls decrease their chances of future falls. In some cases, an in-home assessment might make it clear that staying in the home might not be the best option. A care manger can help to educate and discuss other options available to help seniors live a comfortable life in an environment that best suits their needs.
Post-Hospitalization Assessment
It can be overwhelming to try to determine what kind of care someone will need after a hospital stay or short term rehab stay. A lot of questions can be answered by the doctor, nurses and social workers within the hospital or facility. It is also sometimes helpful to have an extra professional guide. The care manager can evaluate the home to determine if any modifications would be helpful in making it safe and assist in coordinating the care needed upon returning home.
Post Assessment Support
After the expert recommendations have been delivered, now what? A fully comprehensive care management program offers 24/7 support from specialists to help implement the care chosen. Specialists can walk through the care plan, answer additional questions, address any caregiving concerns, provide a sympathetic ear and so much more. Through end-to-end telephonic support, your employees will be able to make educated decisions and confidently put a care plan in place that will provide the best care possible for their loved one’s specific needs.
These are just a few examples of how a fully comprehensive Senior Care Management program can be a great help when caring for an older loved one or a loved one with disabilities, relieving stress and saving time and money. A service like this is not only helpful and educational, but will also give your employees peace of mind and confidence as they choose the right care.
For more information about Senior Care Management services, contact us here or call us at (866) 675-3751.