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The day-to-day chores can be overwhelming, from laundry duty to preparing meals to running errands.

Some seniors, the disabled or those who are homebound often turn to aides and caregivers for help.

This month, AtlantiCare has expanded its home health care program with a new business that incorporates household tasks. The program, known as AtlantiCare At Home Partners, serves Atlantic, Cape May and southern Ocean counties.

Ellen Wolownik, executive director of AtlantiCare HomeCare, said the need is out there.

"Our growing senior population wants to remain independent and in familiar surroundings," she said. "Many people are caring for aging parents in their own homes, locally or from afar. They need support and assistance, especially as they raise their families."

Some of the estimated 78 million Americans who grew up as baby boomers will retire next year, which could translate to a greater need for home health care.

More than 16 percent of Atlantic County's population is 62 and older, according to the latest census figures. Cape May and Ocean counties have among the highest senior populations in the state, each with close to 25 percent of their total populations 62 and older.

Many of them may decide to stay put. An AARP survey in 2006 reported that nine out of 10 people said they do not want to move out of their homes once they retire.

Anne Chandler, director of AtlantiCare Private Duty, said that the hospital's program will have a registered nurse available for clients who may need help bathing, remembering to take their medications or exercising. Also available are companions, who can help cook meals, do housekeeping, go shopping or even watch a movie.

The companions must undergo criminal background checks and are vetted by AtlantiCare, Chandler said.

The program itself is licensed as a health care service firm by the state Office of the Attorney General through the Division of Consumer Affairs.

The companion services it offers range from $18 per hour to $21 per hour, while the home health services range from $22 per hour to $32 per hour. Exact prices are given after a free evaluation, and the service is not covered by Medicare, Chandler said.

Southern Ocean County Hospital in Stafford Township also has a home health care program, although it does not include housekeeping duties or related services, said Kim Frazee, the hospital's director of post-acute services.

"We'll help with the bathing, dressing, grooming or assisting with eating," she said. "Sometimes following an illness, people need that extra help."

Shore Memorial Hospital in Somers Point and Cape Regional Medical Center in Cape May Court House do not have their own home health care programs.

For more information about AtlantiCare At Home Partners, call 888-569-1000.

Contact Erik Ortiz:

609-272-7253

EOrtiz@pressofac.com

2 comments:

• dencrip (2) posts 10:54 pm

  I think a misprint was made in saying an RN will assist with bathing and medication reminders. These activities are typically carried out by nurse aids.

• JoeBrokeler (101) posts 5:02 pm

  another atlanticare medicare scam?

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