Shows / Home Care Powered By AUAF
Home Care Powered By AUAF
Welcome to the Home Care Powered By AUAF podcast — your go-to resource for expert insights and practical guidance on senior care and in-home support services across Illinois. Whether you're caring for a loved one or exploring care options for yourself, this podcast is here to inform, inspire, and support you every step of the way.
Each episode covers essential topics like how to become a paid family caregiver, understanding Medicaid-based home care, tips for seniors aging at home, caregiver…
Episodes
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
How Much Do Family Members Get Paid for Caregiving in Illinois?
Elena and Brooks explain how much family members get paid for caregiving in Illinois, who sets the hours, who can be hired, and when paid care begins. Family…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Bringing Your Own Clients to a Company: What Illinois Home Care Rules Say
Elena and Brooks explain why caregivers cannot bring or transfer clients to a home care agency in Illinois, and what to do if you already care for a loved one…
Home Care Powered By AUAFWhat Is the Income Limit for Medicaid Home Care in Illinois?
Elena and Brooks walk through the Illinois Medicaid income limit for 2026 and what it means for families planning home care for a parent through the Community…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Recreational Sports for Seniors: Fun Ways to Stay Active
Elena and Brooks walk through recreational sports for seniors: why sports help older adults, how to pick safe options, the best low-impact sports, senior…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
What Are Home Care Services? Types of Home Care Explained
Elena and Brooks explain what home care services are, the main types of non-medical home care, how home care differs from home health care, and how Illinois…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Caregiver Support Groups in Chicago area
Elena and Brooks walk through caregiver support groups in the Chicago area: in-person, virtual and condition-specific groups, free help lines, and how to…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Dementia and Wandering: Supporting Home Safety for Seniors and Their Families
Wandering can create serious safety concerns for families caring for a senior with dementia at home. This episode explains how familiar routines, family…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Home Care Support for Seniors Living With Diabetes: Daily Help for Aging at Home
Living with diabetes can make everyday routines more challenging for some older adults. This episode explains how non-medical home care can support seniors…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Paid Caregiver in Illinois: Who Qualifies Beyond Family
Elena and Brooks explain who can be a paid caregiver in Illinois, from spouses and adult children to friends and neighbors, and how the Community Care Program…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Can Medicare Pay a Family Member to Be a Caregiver in Illinois?
Elena and Brooks explain whether Medicare can pay a family member to be a caregiver in Illinois, what Medicare home health actually covers, and where Illinois…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Dementia Care at Home in Schaumburg, IL: Helping Seniors Age in Familiar Surroundings
Dementia care at home can help Schaumburg seniors remain in familiar surroundings while receiving support with everyday activities. This episode explains what…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Is Family Caregiver Pay Taxable in Illinois?
Is family caregiver pay taxable in Illinois? Elena and Brooks explain when Medicaid waiver pay can be left out of federal income tax, which taxes may still…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Home Care Support for Seniors Living With COPD: Help With Daily Activities at Home
COPD can make everyday activities more tiring and challenging for some older adults. This episode explains how non-medical home care can support seniors living…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Home Care Support for Seniors With Heart Conditions: Help With Daily Living at Home
Living with a heart condition can make everyday activities more challenging for some older adults. This episode explains how non-medical home care can support…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Illinois Community Care Program: How Family Caregivers Get Paid Through CCP
The Illinois Community Care Program may allow eligible family members and friends to get paid for providing care to an older adult at home. This episode…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Can a Power of Attorney Be a Paid Family Caregiver in Illinois? POA Eligibility and Requirements
A Power of Attorney may be eligible to become a paid family caregiver in Illinois under the Community Care Program, depending on program requirements. This…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Cancer Care at Home: How Caregivers Support Seniors and Their Families
Living with cancer can make everyday routines more difficult, especially for older adults managing treatment and fatigue. This episode explains how non-medical…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
90% of Seniors Face Barriers to Aging in Place: What the 2026 Survey Reveals
A 2026 survey found that 90% of seniors report at least one social barrier affecting healthy aging, while nearly 70% face challenges remaining safely and…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Dementia Care at Home in Glenview, IL: How In-Home Support Helps Seniors and Families
Dementia care at home in Glenview, IL can help seniors remain in familiar surroundings while receiving personalized support with everyday activities. This…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Stroke Recovery at Home: A Family Guide to Safety, Support, and Caregiving
Supporting stroke recovery at home can involve new routines, home safety changes, rehabilitation support, and emotional care. This episode explains how…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Parkinson’s Care at Home: How In-Home Caregivers Support Daily Life and Safety
Living with Parkinson’s disease can make everyday activities more challenging as movement, balance, and daily needs change. This episode explains how…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
How to Choose a Home Care Agency in Chicago: 10 Questions Families Should Ask
Choosing a home care agency in Chicago requires more than comparing prices. This episode provides a practical checklist of questions families should ask about…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Memory Care vs. In-Home Dementia Care: Which Option Is Right for Your Family?
Choosing between memory care and in-home dementia care depends on your loved one’s stage of dementia, safety needs, and available family support. This episode…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Home Care vs. Hospice Care: Understanding the Differences and When Families May Need Both
Home care and hospice care serve different purposes, but families may need both at the same time. This episode explains how hospice, home health care, and…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Home Care vs. Home Health Care: Key Differences Illinois Families Should Know
Home care and home health care both help people remain safely at home, but they provide very different types of support. This episode explains the difference…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Federal Medicaid Changes and Illinois Family Caregivers: What You Need to Know
Federal Medicaid changes are raising questions for Illinois families who rely on caregiver programs. This episode explains what the new rules may mean, who…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Does Income Affect Eligibility for the Illinois Community Care Program?
Many families wonder whether income affects eligibility for the Illinois Community Care Program (CCP). This episode explains how CCP eligibility is determined…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
What Is the Determination of Need (DoN) Score for Illinois Home Care?
The Determination of Need (DoN) assessment helps Illinois determine the level of home care services a person may qualify for through Medicaid programs. This…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
CCP vs HSP in Illinois: Which Home Care Program Is Right for You?
Illinois offers two major Medicaid home care programs, the Community Care Program (CCP) and the Home Services Program (HSP). This episode explains the…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
CDPAP Alternatives in Illinois: HSP, CCP, and Paid Family Caregiver Options
Illinois does not offer CDPAP by name, but families have similar options through Medicaid-funded programs like the Home Services Program (HSP) and Community…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Illinois Medicaid Paid Caregiver Programs: CCP, HSP, Eligibility, and Family Caregiver Pay
Illinois Medicaid offers programs that may allow eligible family members, friends, and neighbors to become paid caregivers. This episode explains the Community…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Can a Spouse Be Paid as a Caregiver in Illinois? Understanding the 2026 Rule Change
Illinois updated its Community Care Program in 2026, allowing eligible spouses to become paid caregivers in certain situations. This episode explains what…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
How to Talk to a Parent Who Refuses Help at Home
Many older adults resist home care because they fear losing independence or becoming a burden. This episode explains how to have a supportive conversation…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Do Seniors Need a Medical Alert System? Fall Detection, Costs, and 2026 Buying Guide
A medical alert system can help older adults reach emergency support quickly after a fall, sudden illness, or other urgent event. This episode explains who may…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Paid Caregiving for Spouses: Medicaid, VA Benefits, and Insurance Options
Spouses who provide daily care may qualify for financial support through certain state programs, veterans' benefits, or long-term care insurance. This episode…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Home Care Support for Seniors Living With Arthritis: Daily Help and Independent Living
Arthritis can make everyday tasks like dressing, cooking, bathing, and walking more difficult for older adults. This episode explains how non-medical home care…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Qualifications Required to Become a Paid Caregiver in Illinois
Becoming a paid caregiver in Illinois may be easier than many people expect. This episode explains the basic caregiver qualifications, required training, and…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Chicago Heat Wave Safety for Seniors: Why In-Home Wellness Checks Matter
In this episode, we explain why wellness checks are so important during extreme heat and how families can help protect older adults from heat-related illness…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
New Dementia Respite Funding: What Chicago Caregivers Need to Know in 2026
New dementia respite funding is bringing new opportunities for family caregivers across the country. In this episode, we explain what the latest Alzheimer’s…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Medicaid Home Care Fraud Lawsuit: What Illinois Families Need to Know About Protecting Benefits and Avoiding Fraud
In this episode, we break down the recent Medicaid home care fraud lawsuit that has drawn national attention and what it could mean for Illinois families who…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
7 Best Podcasts for Seniors: Educational, Entertaining, and Inspiring Shows to Enjoy
In this episode, we explore seven of the best podcasts for seniors that can inform, entertain, and inspire. Whether you enjoy history, storytelling, healthy…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
9 in 10 Family Caregivers Show Signs of Burnout in 2026: What Families Need to Know
In this episode, we explore a new survey revealing that nearly 9 in 10 family caregivers show signs of caregiver burnout in 2026 and what this growing crisis…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Benefits of Reading for Seniors: Boost Brain Health, Sleep Better, and Stay Connected
Title: In this episode, we explore the many benefits of reading for seniors and how a simple daily reading habit can support healthy aging, better sleep, and…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Best Cruises for Seniors to Escape the Cold: Warm Winter Getaways Made Easy
In this episode, we explore the best cruises for seniors looking to escape cold winter weather and enjoy a relaxing, stress-free getaway. From sunny Caribbean…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Best Games to Play with Grandchildren at Home, Online, or Over FaceTime
In this episode, we explore fun and meaningful ways grandparents can connect with their grandchildren through games and activities at home, outdoors, online…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Best Hobbies for Senior Citizens: At-Home Ideas, Active Options, and Local Classes
In this episode, we explore the best hobbies for seniors that promote physical activity, mental wellness, creativity, and social connection. Whether you're…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Book Club Ideas for Seniors: How to Start One and What to Read
In this episode, we explore how book clubs can help seniors stay socially connected, mentally active, and engaged through meaningful conversations and shared…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Chicago Holiday Activities for Seniors: Safe, Festive Ways to Enjoy the Season
In this episode, we explore the best Chicago holiday activities for seniors and share simple ways to enjoy the festive season safely and comfortably. From…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Companion Care for Seniors: Benefits, Services, and In-Home Support
In this episode, we explore how companion care helps seniors stay connected, independent, and supported while continuing to live at home. Learn how non-medical…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Credit Card Forgiveness for Elderly Parents: Debt Relief Options and Financial Support for Seniors
In this episode, we discuss how families can help elderly parents manage credit card debt with confidence, compassion, and practical solutions. Learn about…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Easy and Fun Fall Decor for Seniors: Safe, Creative Ways to Celebrate the Season
In this episode, we share easy and fun fall decor ideas for seniors that bring warmth, creativity, and seasonal joy into the home. From simple crafts to cozy…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Easy-to-Use Smartphone Tips for Seniors: A Simple Guide to Staying Connected
In this episode, we share practical smartphone tips designed to help seniors feel more confident using their devices. From making calls and sending messages to…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Flu in the Elderly: Symptoms, Warning Signs, Treatment, and Prevention Tips
In this episode, we discuss why the flu can be especially dangerous for older adults and what families need to know to help protect their loved ones during flu…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Help for the Elderly Living at Home in Illinois: Senior Care Options and Support Services
In this episode, we explore the care options available for seniors living at home in Illinois and how families can find the right support to help their loved…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
How Seniors Can Learn a New Language and Keep Their Mind Active
In this episode, we discuss how learning a new language can help seniors stay mentally engaged, build confidence, and create meaningful connections. With the…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
How to Help Seniors Stay Organized at Home: Simple Tips for Safety and Independence
In this episode, we discuss practical ways to help seniors stay organized at home. From reducing clutter and improving home safety to managing medications and…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Illinois Senior Financial Exploitation Laws: A Guide for Families
In this episode, we break down Illinois senior financial exploitation laws and explain how families can recognize, prevent, and respond to elder financial…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
In-Home Care Services Cost for Seniors: Understanding Coverage, Medicaid, and Care Options
In this episode, we break down the cost of in-home care services for seniors and explain the factors that determine what families may pay for care. From…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Learn Caregiver Skills: Essential Abilities for Providing Better Home Care
In this episode, we explore the essential caregiver skills needed to provide safe, effective, and compassionate care at home. Whether you're a family caregiver…
- Home Care Powered By AUAF
Live-In Care vs 24-Hour Home Care: How to Choose the Right Senior Care Option
In this episode, we break down the key differences between live-in care and 24-hour home care so families can make informed decisions about senior care at…