EHM Applauds Michigan Legislature for Improving Laws That Govern Care-at-Home Services for Seniors
FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., June 16, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- It is uncommon for businesses to ask for more regulation and oversight of their operations. But for Evangelical Homes of Michigan (EHM), a nonprofit organization that cares for seniors throughout the aging process, it was a welcomed modification in an industry that had been governed by antiquated rules last put into place in the late 1970s.
As of April 2, the Continuing Care Community Disclosure Act, PA 448, went into effect. It is a new state law that addresses the changing environment in the retirement community industry. Specifically, the law now enables organizations to provide life care at home versus only on a community care campus. Previously, care at-home services were not part of the law and were unregulated. EHM was the first of its kind to be recognized and registered in the state for its continuing care at home line of services, called LifeChoices®.
"We are thrilled that the Michigan Legislature took a bold step to amend a law that makes Michigan among a few states in the nation to oversee the care and services delivered to seniors in their home environment," said Denise Rabidoux, President and CEO of EHM. "There are many programs being offered to help seniors. It is important that providers are held to a standard and that older adults can now enjoy care and services, wherever they call home. Not all services are created equal. This law works to provide more choices for those who wish to stay at home in their retirement years. It ensures consumer protection of those we serve."
EHM developed its continuing care at home program in 2010, called LifeChoices®, to address the growing number of older adults in Southeast Michigan who wish to age in place. LifeChoices® helps older adults with tasks that can often force older adults into a nursing home or assisted living environment – everything from health coaching to home repairs and modifications, transportation, housekeeping, to grocery shopping and meal preparation.
"We took special care to develop a program that addressed the real challenges that our clients face on a daily basis," said Ms. Rabidoux. "Most people can't afford to surrender their lifetime assets or purchase expensive long-term care insurance. LifeChoices® is an affordable and safe option that removes the barriers to aging at home."
"What's unique about LifeChoices® is that it provides older adults with choices throughout their life wherever they call home," added Ms. Rabidoux. "Caring for older adults has been our business for the last 135 years. We have all of the resources and support systems in place, should they need additional support, from assisted living and affordable housing to rehabilitation to memory care to hospice."
EHM is a health and human service organization that provides healthcare, housing and community services to seniors and their families in southeast Michigan. Founded 135 years ago, EHM is one of the largest nonprofits of its kind in metro Detroit and one of the oldest in the state, serving more than 4500 seniors annually. Guided by a board composed of church leaders, corporate executives and community members, EHM takes pride in meeting the growing demands of seniors and their families. For more information on EHM or its LifeChoices® program, please call 734-295-9292 or visit their website at www.lifechoicesathome.org.
Contact: Steve Hopkins
Evangelical Homes of Michigan
734-295-9292
[email protected]
SOURCE Evangelical Homes of Michigan
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