Home Care Powered By AUAF
by Sam
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 wellness, and more. Hosted by our compassionate care experts, we bring real conversations and trusted advice to help families make confident care decisions. This podcast is presented by Home Care Powered By AUAF — a licensed Illinois home care agency with over 30 years of service. Learn more about our programs and services by visiting www.homecare-aid.com. Because when it comes to caring for your loved ones, we’re wi
Episodes
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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 members hired by Home Care Powered by AUAF as home care aides currently earn $21 an hour (as of October 2026). Total pay depends on the…
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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. Under the Community Care Program, the participant chooses the provider, and the Care Coordination Unit handles any change. A family…
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What 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 Care Program. AABD Medical, which covers seniors 65 and older, is $1,330 a month for one person and $1,803 for a couple in 2026. Countable...
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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 games, sports gear, and how to start slowly. The CDC advises adults 65 and older to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, plus...
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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 families pay for care. Home care is non-medical help that lets an older adult keep living at home: personal care, homemaker services,...
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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 choose the right group. The Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter offers groups by webinar, phone or in person, and a 24-hour Helpline at...
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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 involvement, scheduled home care, and changing supervision needs can all factor into a safer care plan. What dementia-related wandering can look...
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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 with daily activities while diabetes treatment and medical decisions remain with qualified healthcare professionals. How caregivers support...
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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 and the Home Services Program differ. Community Care Program providers may hire a spouse, relative, friend, or neighbor as a home care…
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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 families can find paid in-home help instead. Medicare does not pay relatives for caregiving, and it does not cover custodial or 24-hour…
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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 scheduled home care can provide, how different care options compare, and what families should consider as a loved one’s needs change. What...
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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 apply, and how families report it. Why caregiver pay is usually taxable income The shared-home rule for Medicaid waiver payments under IRS...
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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 with COPD while respiratory treatment, oxygen therapy, and medical decisions remain with qualified healthcare professionals. How…
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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 seniors with daily routines while doctors and cardiologists continue to manage cardiovascular treatment and medical decisions. How...
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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 explains how CCP caregiver pay works, who may qualify, and what families should expect from assessment through payroll. Who may qualify as a…
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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 episode explains how POA status fits with paid caregiving and what families should know before applying. When a POA may qualify as a paid...
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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 caregivers can provide practical daily support while cancer treatment and medical decisions remain with the healthcare team. How...
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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 independently at home. This episode explores the survey findings and how non-medical home care can help address common gaps in daily support....
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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 episode explains how in-home dementia care works, what caregivers can help with, and when families may need to consider additional care…
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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 families can help a stroke survivor at home while following the recovery plan provided by doctors and therapists. What families should expect...
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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 non-medical in-home caregivers can provide practical assistance, companionship, and safety support while helping someone remain comfortable at…
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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 caregiver screening, personalized care plans, communication, backup coverage, and costs before hiring an agency. How to verify agency...
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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 compares both options to help families understand when staying at home may work and when a memory care facility may be more appropriate.…
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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 non-medical home care differ, and how each can support a loved one at home. What hospice care provides for terminal illnesses How home care...
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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 between non-medical daily assistance and skilled medical care, including how each service is typically paid for. What home care includes…
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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 could be affected, and how programs like CCP and HSP fit into the changes. What the new Medicaid work rules mean Who these federal changes...
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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, when income matters, and how the program helps older adults receive home care while remaining independent. What determines eligibility…
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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 episode explains how the assessment works, what it measures, and how it affects care plans and approved service hours. What the Illinois DoN...
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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 differences between these programs, who they serve, and how families can choose the right option for their situation. Who qualifies for CCP and…
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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 Care Program (CCP). This episode explains how Illinois programs help eligible individuals direct their own care and choose trusted…
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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 Care Program (CCP), the Home Services Program (HSP), who may qualify, and how these programs help older adults and individuals with...
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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 changed, who may qualify, and how the program differs from Medicare. What changed under the 2026 Illinois caregiver rules Who qualifies for…
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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, understand their concerns, and introduce help in a way that respects their choices. Why elderly parents may refuse help at home How fear and...
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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 explains the main paid caregiving options and why eligibility depends on location, health needs, and program rules. How Medicaid waiver...
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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 benefit from one, how different systems work, and which features families should compare in 2026. How personal emergency response systems...
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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 can provide personalized support while helping seniors remain safe, comfortable, and independent at home. How arthritis affects daily...
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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 programs that may allow eligible family members or friends to get paid for providing home care. The minimum age and background check...
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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. With dangerous temperatures affecting the Chicago area, simple check-ins can make a life-saving difference. You’ll learn: Why do older...
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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 Association funding announcement means, how Medicare's GUIDE model can help cover respite care, and what support is already available for...
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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 rely on Medicaid-funded in-home care services. You’ll learn: What the Medicaid home care fraud lawsuit alleges and why it matters How…
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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 means for families caring for aging loved ones. You’ll learn: What the latest caregiver burnout survey reveals about stress levels among...
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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 or considering a caregiving role, these practical skills can help improve daily routines, communication, and overall quality of care....
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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 abuse before significant losses occur. You’ll learn: What senior financial exploitation is and why it is becoming a growing concern in…
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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 reading experiences. Learn how to start a senior book club, choose great books, and create enjoyable meetings that bring people together....
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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 adjusting accessibility settings and avoiding scams, these simple strategies can make everyday phone use easier and safer. You’ll learn:...
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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 companionship services can improve quality of life, reduce loneliness, and provide valuable peace of mind for families. You’ll learn…
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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 important documents, these simple strategies can make daily life easier, safer, and more comfortable for older adults. You’ll learn: Why...
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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 right tools, realistic goals, and consistent practice, older adults can successfully learn a new language at any age. You’ll learn: Why...
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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 looking for activities to enjoy at home, outdoors, or in your community, these hobby ideas can help make retirement more active and…
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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, and over FaceTime. You’ll learn: What card and board games help build family bonding and communication Why dress-up, pretend play, and tea...
About this show
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 wellness, and more. Hosted by our compassionate care experts, we bring real conversations and trusted advice to help families make confident care decisions.
This podcast is presented by Home Care Powered By AUAF — a licensed Illinois home care agency with over 30 years of service. Learn more about our programs and services by visiting www.homecare-aid.com.
Because when it comes to caring for your loved ones, we’re wi
Hosted by
Sam