February is Senior Independence Month, a time to highlight the importance of tools and services that help older adults maintain their independence. For seniors recovering from an injury, surgery, or illness, access to therapy, rehabilitation services, durable medical equipment (DME), and in-home care services can be critical for a successful recovery and long-term health.
Medicare Coverage: Therapy, Rehabilitation, and Durable Medical Equipment
Therapy and Rehabilitation Services Covered by Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B plays a significant role in supporting recovery by covering a range of therapy and rehabilitation services. If your doctor prescribes therapy to restore mobility, strength, or overall function, Medicare Part B can help cover the costs. This includes:
- Physical Therapy: Exercises and treatments designed to improve movement, balance, and strength.
- Occupational Therapy: Assistance with regaining the ability to perform daily activities like dressing, cooking, or bathing.
- Speech-Language Pathology: Services to address communication or swallowing difficulties caused by illness or injury.
These services must be deemed medically necessary by your healthcare provider and documented in a treatment plan. Medicare Part B typically covers 80% of the Medicare-approved amount after you meet the annual Part B deductible. You are responsible for the remaining 20% unless you have additional coverage like a Medigap plan or Medicare Advantage.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME) to Enhance Mobility and Independence
Durable Medical Equipment can be essential for seniors who need support with mobility and daily activities. Medicare Part B covers medically necessary DME, which includes items such as:
- Canes and Walkers: Help with stability and balance.
- Wheelchairs and Power Scooters: Assist with mobility for those with significant movement limitations.
- Hospital Beds: Provide comfort and safety during recovery at home.
- Exercise-Related Equipment: Items like stationary bikes or resistance bands that may support physical therapy goals.
To qualify for DME coverage under Medicare Part B:
- The equipment must be prescribed by a Medicare-enrolled doctor.
- The supplier must accept Medicare assignment.
As with therapy services, Medicare covers 80% of the cost after the Part B deductible is met, leaving you to pay the remaining 20% unless you have supplemental insurance.
Extending Independence with Affordable In-Home Care Solutions
While Medicare covers medical services such as hospital stays, doctor visits, and short-term skilled nursing care, it does not provide for non-medical assistance like meal preparation, grocery shopping, hygiene assistance, or daily living support. Many seniors are under the impression their traditional health care programs will provide these services, but they often do not.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 70% of seniors will need some sort of home care in their lifetime. That’s nearly three out of four of us.
This is where dedicated In-Home Care Plans come in. These plans are designed to provide seniors with reliable assistance in their own homes, helping them maintain their independence for as long as possible.
Benefits of In-Home Care Plans:
- Field Issue Contract – Quick approval and access to care.
- No Medical Underwriting – No need to worry about health history affecting eligibility.
- No Elimination Period – Services can begin immediately.
- Available to all ages, no age restriction or requirement – Accessible regardless of age.
- Available Nationwide – Support is accessible wherever you live.
- Discount Reward for Non-Use – Encouraging wellness while providing security.
Discover the freedom to age gracefully at home with NON-MEDICAL HOME CARE SERVICES that provide the support you need to maintain your independence.
What’s Included in In-Home Care Plans?
- Meal Planning/Preparation
- Assistance with Dressing, Bathing, Toileting
- Accompaniment to Doctor’s Visits and Other Appointments
- Medication Reminders
- Light Housekeeping
- And More!
Senior Independence Month is a great time to explore resources that help older adults regain and maintain their independence. While Medicare provides essential support for medical recovery and mobility, in-home care services offer a reliable, affordable solution to extend independence even further. If you or a loved one want to maintain a high quality of life while aging in place, it’s worth exploring these options today.
To learn more about in-home care plans, you can contact our office to discuss plan options and what solution best meets your needs.