Helping a senior loved one find the best services they need can be daunting. There is an overwhelming amount of information on what’s available, who can provide the services, and how to pay for them. Starting with this issue, ENCORE Ministry Connection will run a series of articles by Tim Tuttle, owner of Assisted Living Locators (ALL) South Nashville.

Home care consists of personal care and assistance with daily living activities in a senior’s home. Caregiver tasks range from simple — providing a companion for a loved one who is alone — to complex — assistance with bathing and toileting. Hourly rates vary according to the provider, services provided, number of hours in a shift, and number of hours in a week.
 
The national median cost of a home caregiver is $33 per hour, and the Nashville market is consistent with that average. While families may be able to find a private caregiver for a lower rate, ALL – South Nashville recommends using a reputable home care agency to ensure the caregiver is screened via a criminal background check, fully trained, and insured in the case of accident or injury.
 
The news is full of stories of theft, injury, and abuse regarding private caregivers. Using a well-known provider with a good reputation can help to protect your loved one from such risks. ALL – South Nashville can introduce you to trusted home care companies.
 
One misconception many families have is that home care assistance is covered by Medicare or other health insurance. Except in very limited circumstances, it is mostly paid for out of pocket. Medicaid (TennCare CHOICES), long-term health insurance, and Veterans Affairs benefits may pay for some of the costs, but generally the cost of home care will be borne personally by the senior or family members.
 
ALL South Nashville is owned by Tim Tuttle, a retired Air Force officer, commander of the Franklin Veterans of Foreign Wars, and a member of Franklin (Tennessee) First United Methodist Church. Tim was inspired to open ALL – South Nashville five years ago after his mother’s experience needing care. Tim’s teammate, Nancy Blankinship, is a social worker with over 20 years of experience working with seniors. She’s a native Middle Tennessean who personally nursed a loved one through hospice to his passing. For more information about home care options, contact timt@assistedlivinglocators.com.