Caregiver
A broad term used to refer to an individual who provides care to another individual who cannot care for him or herself due to a disability or functional limitation. This individual could provide nonmedical care such as help with bathing or eating or he/she could provide medically necessary care such as changing dressings. The care may be provided informally by a relative, friend or neighbor or by a paid individual who may or may not be a licensed professional. Sometimes referred to as a caretaker, though a caretaker is usually one that looks after or takes charge of goods and property.
More Common Terms
- Medicaid A state program that is financed at both the state and federal level that provides medical and long-term care benefits for low-income people. The “Medicaid” term may vary in various states.
- Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRCs) A residential community that offers a continuum of care from private apartments to skilled nursing care at the same location. It is designed to meet changing needs while allowing residents to avoid relocating.
- Rehabilitation Treatments for individuals who have suffered a stroke, brain or spinal cord injury, or pain that cannot be controlled by medication alone. This also includes return-to-work programs or occupational rehabilitation, which help individuals regain skills...