Concordia Lutheran Ministries
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does Concordia Lutheran Ministries offer?
Concordia offers a network of senior care and health services, including retirement living, personal care and assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation, long-term nursing care, home health, hospice care and medical equipment. Services vary by location.
Where are Concordia Lutheran Ministries’ locations?
Concordia serves individuals and families through senior living communities and home and community-based services across Pennsylvania and Ohio. Use our location and service search on the Our Communities page to find options available near you.
How do I know which level of care is right for me or my loved one?
Our team can help you understand your needs and compare available levels of care, from maintenance-free retirement living to assistance with daily activities, skilled nursing care and services provided in the home. Visit our Understanding Care page for more information.
How do I find a Concordia location or company that offers the service I need?
Use our location search on the Our Communities page to filter Concordia communities and services by the type of care you’re looking for. You can also contact us for help finding the right option.
Is Concordia a nonprofit organization?
Yes. Concordia Lutheran Ministries is a faith-based, nonprofit organization that has been serving older adults and their families since 1881.
Do I have to be Lutheran or Christian to receive services from Concordia?
No. Concordia is a Lutheran organization rooted in Christian faith and welcomes individuals of all backgrounds.
How does Concordia support faith and community life?
We offer regular devotions and worship services and many opportunities for fellowship, reflection and service through the Concordia family. Our Chaplaincy team provides a heartfelt presence at our facilities as well.
How does Concordia support families caring for aging parents?
We provide guidance, communication and personalized care plans that relieve the burden on caregivers and ensure loved ones receive consistent support.
Does Concordia provide care at home?
Yes. In addition to our senior living communities, Concordia offers home and community-based services that may include home health, hospice care and medical equipment, depending on your area. Visit our In-Home Care Services page to learn more.
How do I get started with Concordia?
Start by exploring Our Communities and our In-Home Care Services or contacting our team. We can answer questions, discuss your needs and connect you with the appropriate Concordia community or service.
Independent/ Retirement Living
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the monthly rate?
Monthly rates and included services vary by location but may include your private residence, utilities, maintenance, activities, wellness programs and other community amenities and services. Our team can provide details about what is included at the Concordia retirement living community you’re considering.
Do I need to pay an entrance fee for independent living?
It depends on the location. Concordia offers several pricing options across our retirement living communities, including refundable entrance fees, declining balance entrance fees, rental-style options and options with no entrance fee. Visit the Our Communities page to explore Concordia’s retirement living communities and find the location that’s right for you.
Are pets allowed in independent living?
Yes, pets are welcome at Concordia retirement living communities. Pet policies, including any size or other restrictions, vary by location. Our team can provide details about the pet policy at the community you’re considering.
Can I bring my own furniture and decorate my apartment?
Absolutely. Residents are encouraged to personalize their space and make it feel like home.
What happens if I need more care later?
Many Concordia communities offer multiple levels of care, making it easier to access additional support as your needs change. All of our locations are also connected through the Concordia network of care, helping you transition to other services or levels of care while remaining within the Concordia family. Our home and community services provide additional options for care and support at home.
What is the difference between independent living and personal care?
Independent living is designed for active older adults seeking a maintenance-free lifestyle. Personal care provides additional 24-hour support with daily activities while encouraging independence.
Personal Care/Assisted Living
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in personal care services at Concordia?
Services include help with bathing, dressing, meals, basic medical care, activities, housekeeping, utilities and 24/7 support.
Is personal care the same as assisted living?
Not exactly. Both personal care and assisted living provide support with daily activities while helping residents maintain as much independence as possible, but terminology, services and regulations vary by state. Concordia offers personal care at several Pennsylvania locations and assisted living at Concordia at Sumner in Ohio. Care plans are personalized and can be adjusted as needs change, ensuring residents receive the right level of support.
Can residents receive medical care while in personal care?
Residents in personal care receive basic medical care from onsite nursing staff, but those with more advanced medical care needs would typically transition to a skilled nursing facility or receive skilled medical care/therapy at the facility from a home health agency (which would require a physician referral).
Do you offer private rooms?
Yes. Most Concordia personal care accommodations are private, although room options vary by location. Some communities also offer semi-private accommodations. Our team can help you explore available options and find the setting that best meets your needs and preferences.
Are special diets accommodated?
Yes. Our culinary team prepares meals that support nutritional needs, medical conditions and personal preferences.
Does Concordia personal care offer short-term or respite stays?
Yes. We offer short-term stays that give caregivers a needed break while ensuring loved ones receive quality care and social interaction.
Who can benefit from personal care services?
Seniors who need help with daily tasks or who may feel isolated at home benefit from personal care. It’s ideal for individuals seeking security, companionship and professional support.
What is the difference between personal care and long-term nursing care?
Personal Care provides assistance with daily activities while promoting independence. Long-Term Nursing Care offers around-the-clock skilled nursing services and clinical support for individuals with more complex healthcare needs.
Memory Care
Frequently Asked Questions
What is memory care?
Memory care is a specialized level of senior living designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other memory-impairing conditions. At Concordia, memory care provides enhanced safety, personalized support and structured programming in a secure, homelike environment.
How is memory care different from personal care or assisted living?
Memory care offers a higher level of supervision and specialized support for individuals with cognitive impairment. While personal care and assisted living focus on help with daily activities, memory care includes enhanced security, dementia-specific programming and staff trained to support changing cognitive needs.
When is it time to consider memory care?
Families often consider memory care when a loved one shows signs such as wandering, confusion, frequent falls, medication mismanagement or increased difficulty with daily routines. Memory care can provide a safer environment and consistent support when care needs exceed what can be managed at home.
What services are included in memory care at Concordia?
Memory care services include assistance with daily activities, medication management, three daily meals, housekeeping and laundry, cognitive-focused activities, wellness programs, paid utilities and 24/7 staff support in a secure setting. Care plans are personalized and adjusted as needs change.
Are staff specially trained in memory care?
Yes. Our memory care team receives specialized training to support individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Staff members focus on compassionate care, consistent routines and meaningful engagement tailored to each resident.
Is memory care available for individuals with Alzheimer’s or advanced dementia?
Yes. Our memory care neighborhood provides secure living spaces, structured routines and compassionate support tailored to each resident.
What makes Concordia a good option for seniors with memory care needs?
Our memory care program provides a safe, structured and compassionate environment for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Residents benefit from predictable routines, personalized activities, secure living areas and a care team trained in dementia support. Family members receive guidance, communication and peace of mind.
Short-Term Rehabilitation
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions does Concordia treat in short-term rehab?
We care for patients recovering from surgery, joint replacements, strokes, fractures, cardiac conditions, pneumonia, COPD, wound care needs and other post-acute conditions.
How long does a typical rehab stay last?
Length of stay varies based on your therapy goals, insurance, recovery progress and physician recommendations. Many patients stay one to three weeks.
Does insurance cover short-term rehab?
Short-term rehabilitation may be covered by Medicare or private insurance, depending on eligibility, your insurance plan and the Concordia location you choose. Our admissions team can help verify your coverage and explain any potential costs before admission.
Are rehab rooms private?
Room options vary by location. Many Concordia short-term rehabilitation locations offer private accommodations, while others may offer both private and semi-private rooms. Our admissions team can help you explore the accommodations available at the location you’re considering.
What therapy services are provided?
Depending on your needs, you may receive physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and specialized programs before discharge.
Can Concordia help with recovery after surgery or hospitalization?
Yes. Our short-term rehabilitation services offer skilled therapy, coordinated care and patient education to support a safe recovery and help avoid hospital readmission.
Long-Term Nursing Care
Frequently Asked Questions
What does long-term nursing care include?
Services include 24/7 licensed nursing, medical oversight, medication management, meals, laundry, activities, therapy options and on-site spiritual care.
How do I know if long-term care is the right level?
If someone needs continuous skilled nursing, help with daily care or ongoing medical supervision, long-term care may be appropriate. Our team can assist with assessments.
Is Concordia long-term nursing care Medicare- or Medicaid-certified?
Medicare and Medicaid certification varies by Concordia location. Our admissions team can help you determine whether the location you’re considering participates in Medicare or Medicaid and answer questions about eligibility and payment options.
Can families visit freely?
Yes. Concordia supports flexible visitation to keep families involved and connected with their loved ones.
What types of medical conditions can you support?
We care for residents with memory impairment, diabetes, cardiac conditions, wound care needs, IV therapy, orthopedic conditions and other chronic or complex diagnoses.
Home Health
Frequently Asked Questions
What is home health care and when is it needed?
Home health care provides skilled medical services in the comfort of a patient’s home. It is often recommended after a hospital stay, surgery or illness when ongoing nursing or therapy support is needed but hospitalization is no longer required. Services are delivered through physician referral and are designed to support recovery, manage chronic conditions and help individuals remain safely at home.
What is the difference between home health, palliative and hospice care?
Home health care supports recovery and management of medical conditions through skilled nursing and therapy services provided at home. Palliative care focuses on comfort and symptom management for individuals with serious illness and can be provided alongside curative treatment. Hospice care is for individuals facing advanced illness when the focus shifts to comfort, quality of life and support for both patients and families.
Who qualifies for home health care?
Eligibility is determined by a physician and typically includes having a skilled medical need and meeting insurance requirements. Many insurance plans also require that a patient be considered homebound, meaning leaving home requires significant effort or assistance. Our team can help review eligibility and next steps.
What types of home health care services are available?
Concordia’s home health agencies offer skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, home health aide support, social services and other specialized services based on physician orders and each patient’s personalized plan of care.
What specialty home health services are available?
Specialty services may include palliative care, spiritual care, disease management, mental health nursing, diabetic education and lymphedema therapy, depending on the agency, physician orders and patient needs.
How do I get started with home health care?
Home health care begins with a physician referral. Once a referral is received, our team verifies eligibility and insurance coverage, develops a personalized care plan and schedules visits with the appropriate clinicians.
Does Medicare or insurance cover home health care?
Many home health services are covered by Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance when eligibility criteria are met. Coverage varies by plan, and our team can help verify benefits, explain potential out-of-pocket costs and answer coverage questions before care begins.
Can I choose Concordia as my home health care provider?
Yes. Patients have the right to choose their home health care provider. Under Medicare, individuals may select any Medicare-certified home health agency for their care—not only the agency recommended by a hospital or physician. If home health services are recommended, you or your family may request a Concordia home health agency. Coverage and availability may vary based on your insurance plan and service area, and our team can help review your options.
How often will a nurse or therapist visit my home?
The frequency of visits depends on your physician’s orders, medical needs and personalized care plan. Your care team will explain what to expect and adjust services as your needs change.
What is the difference between home health care and outpatient therapy?
Home health care provides skilled nursing and therapy services in the home for individuals who qualify through a physician referral. Outpatient therapy requires patients to travel to a clinic or rehabilitation center for scheduled appointments.
Hospice
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hospice care?
Hospice care is specialized medical care focused on comfort, dignity and quality of life for individuals facing advanced illness. Rather than pursuing curative treatment for the hospice diagnosis, hospice emphasizes pain and symptom management, emotional support and spiritual care while helping patients remain as comfortable as possible.
When is it time to consider hospice care?
Hospice care may be appropriate when treatments are no longer effective or desired, symptoms become more difficult to manage or hospitalizations become more frequent. Families often benefit from learning about hospice early, even if they are simply gathering information and exploring their options.
Who qualifies for hospice care?
Eligibility is typically determined by a physician and generally includes a life expectancy of six months or less if the illness follows its expected course. Patients also choose comfort-focused care rather than curative treatment for the hospice diagnosis. Our team can help answer questions about eligibility and the referral process.
Where can hospice care be provided?
Hospice care is most often provided wherever a patient calls home, including a private residence, personal care home, assisted living community or skilled nursing facility. Inpatient hospice care may also be provided when symptoms cannot be effectively managed in the patient’s residential setting.
How quickly can hospice services begin?
Once eligibility is confirmed and a physician referral is received, hospice services can often begin promptly. Our team works closely with physicians, hospitals and discharge planners to coordinate a smooth transition to care.
What are the four levels of hospice care?
Medicare recognizes four levels of hospice care based on a patient’s clinical needs: routine home care, continuous home care, general inpatient care and inpatient respite care. A patient’s hospice team determines the appropriate level of care and adjusts services as needs change. Concordia’s hospice agencies provide access to all four levels of care.
What services are included in hospice care?
Hospice care may include skilled nursing, hospice aide services, pain and symptom management, medications related to the hospice diagnosis, medical equipment and supplies, social work, spiritual care, volunteer support, respite care and bereavement services for families.
Does Medicare or insurance cover hospice care?
Yes. Medicare covers hospice care for eligible patients who meet medical criteria and elect the Medicare Hospice Benefit. Medicaid and many private insurance plans also provide hospice coverage. Our team can review your benefits and answer questions about coverage before services begin.
Does choosing hospice mean giving up?
No. Choosing hospice does not mean giving up hope. Hospice shifts the focus of care from curing illness to maximizing comfort, honoring personal wishes and helping patients live each day with dignity and the best possible quality of life.
What if we’re not sure it’s time for hospice?
It’s common to feel uncertain. Families are encouraged to reach out even if they are simply gathering information. Our team can provide an evaluation, answer questions and help you understand whether hospice or another level of care may be appropriate. Having the conversation early does not commit you to starting services, but it can provide clarity and peace of mind.
Medical Equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of medical equipment and supplies are available?
Concordia Medical Equipment offers a wide range of products to support respiratory needs, mobility, safety and everyday living at home. Products include home and portable oxygen systems, CPAP and BiPAP equipment and supplies, nebulizers, wheelchairs, walkers, rollators, bathroom safety products, hospital beds, patient lifts, diabetic supplies, aids to daily living and more.
What is durable medical equipment?
Durable medical equipment, commonly referred to as DME, generally includes medical equipment intended for ongoing use in the home, such as wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds and certain respiratory equipment. Concordia Medical Equipment provides a variety of durable medical equipment and other home medical equipment and supplies. Coverage and requirements may vary depending on the equipment and your insurance plan.
Do I need a prescription or order for medical equipment?
A prescription or order from a qualified health care provider may be required for certain medical equipment, particularly when the equipment is being billed through Medicare or another insurance plan. Some equipment may also have additional documentation or authorization requirements. Because requirements vary by equipment and insurance plan, our team can help you understand what may be needed.
Does Medicare or insurance cover home medical equipment and supplies?
Coverage for durable medical equipment and supplies varies depending on the type of equipment, medical need and individual insurance plan. Concordia Medical Equipment offers direct billing to most major insurance providers, including Medicare, Pennsylvania Medical Assistance and many private insurance plans. Our team is available to answer questions about accepted insurance and help you understand your options.
Does Concordia deliver and set up medical equipment?
Yes. Qualified Concordia Medical Equipment technicians provide delivery and setup of medical equipment, along with education on proper equipment use. This helps individuals and families feel more comfortable and confident using the equipment at home.