Does Medicaid Pay for In-Home Care? Medicaid is a government-funded program that helps millions of people pay for healthcare costs, but does Medicaid pay for in-home care? Luckily, Illinois state offers coverage, and you may qualify. Follow this step-by-step guide to enroll in the program, as well as to learn about the program’s benefits.
Does Medicaid Pay for In-Home Care?
Yes, Medicaid covers the costs of in-home care in all 50 states. The Federal Government establishes certain criteria, but it gives states substantial discretion in the services they provide. This is especially true for home care.
Medicaid’s home care services are state-administered. Each state has different requirements for eligibility. Each state establishes its asset and income limits because Medicaid is only available to low-income persons. In the state of Illinois, Care Coordination Units (or CCUs) determine eligibility.
What Are Eligibility Requirements for Receiving in Home Care? (As Determined by IDOA)
These are the general requirements as defined by the Illinois Department on Aging. However, there may be exceptions in place for elder care services. The best practice is to apply for elder care services through a home care agency like Home Care Powered by AUAF.
A Care Coordination Unit can assess your eligibility more clearly than you can. However, as a rule of thumb, the requirements are as followed. You must:
- Be 60 years old or older
- Hold U.S. citizenship
- Be a resident of Illinois
- Have non-exempt assets of $17,500 or less (your home, car, or personal furnishings are classified as exempt assets.)
- Have an assessed need that qualifies for Medicaid for long-term care (at risk for nursing facility placement) as measured by the Determination of Need (DON) assessment.
The Role of Care Coordination Unit/CCU
It’s critical to note that home care providers in Illinois act as a link between the Government and clients. Home Care Powered by AUAF trains and deploys home caregivers. However, a Care Coordination Unit, or CCU, determines whether or not an individual qualifies for assistance through Medicaid or other methods.
How to Apply for Medicaid Through a Home Care Agency
Home care agencies like Home Care Powered by AUAF are the best place to approach getting home care aides for your older adults. These services are available on a case-by-case basis under an expert case manager. Though it may take a little time, this is what the process will look like:
- An evaluation by the state to determine what kind of home care services is necessary for the elder.
- The older adult will answer some financial questions to qualify for the program. A care plan is created depending on the level of assistance for the elder. This plan contains a detailed description of the required services and the number of hours per week the in-home caregiver will provide.
- The home care agency is notified, and an at-home caregiver is scheduled.
- The older person has the final approval of the caregiver that provides them services.
- The care plan is updated annually, but it can be adjusted as necessary to meet changing needs.
Community Care Program Services
The Illinois Department on Aging’s Community Care Program was established in 1979 by Public Act 81-202. It assists older adults who may otherwise require nursing home care may continue to live at home by offering both in-home and community-based services. This care is entirely non-medical.
The following are some of the Medicaid-funded Community Care Program’s services:
Home care and personal care services:
Home care and personal care services are two crucial forms of non-medical assistance provided to seniors. Caregivers help seniors with everyday tasks, also known as instrumental activities of daily living, which are essential for their well-being. These services include bathing, grooming, eating, and mobility support.
By assisting with these activities, caregivers enable seniors to maintain their dignity and independence. Medicaid covers the cost of in-home personal care in several states, including Illinois, ensuring that seniors receive the care they need without the burden of financial strain.
Housekeeping services :
In addition to personal care, home care aides provide vital support with housekeeping tasks. They assist with a variety of basic household chores that can become increasingly difficult for seniors to manage on their own. These tasks include sweeping, dusting, mopping, and keeping the kitchen and bathroom clean. By taking care of these chores, caregivers help create a safe and healthy living environment for seniors.
Furthermore, home care aides assist with laundry, ensuring that clothing and linens are clean and well-maintained. They also help with grocery shopping and other essential errands, making sure that seniors have everything they need to live comfortably. These services not only contribute to the physical well-being of seniors but also alleviate stress and improve their overall quality of life.
Medicaid Payments to Family Members for Providing Home Care
For quite some time, the government and state governments have recognized the importance of family members providing unpaid care for the elderly. In a few states in the Medicaid fund system, pilot government programs known as “Cash and Counseling” were launched in the mid-1990s.
The Medicaid office found that many people were struggling to take care of their elderly relatives while also working full-time. So, the office decided to offer financial assistance to family caregivers. This would help take care of two problems at the same time.
In the years since the term cash and counseling has been replaced in many places by “consumer-directed care” or “self-directed care.” The Cash and Counseling Program is now part of the Community Care Program through the Illinois Department of Aging in Illinois.
Learn More about How to become a caregiver for family members with Home Care Powered by AUAF.
Documentation Required for Prospective Caregivers Includes a Copy of:
- Social Security Card
- Valid Illinois Driver’s License or State ID
- Authorized to work in the United States
- Copy of high school, college diploma, or employment verification
You’ll also need to complete the required (paid!) training and meet with agency staff to discuss your family’s care plan. Especially determining what type of services you’ll provide and how many hours per week or month you’ll spend.
Home Care Powered by AUAF – Your Trusted Partner in Senior Care
Home Care Powered by AUAF provides compassionate, personalized care for your elderly loved ones. We understand the challenges of aging and know how important it is to receive care in the comfort of your home. Our trained caregivers assist with a wide range of services, including personal care, meal preparation, and companionship.
We also offer a competitive pay rate of $19 per hour, enabling family members to get paid for caring for their loved ones. By partnering with Home Care Powered by AUAF, you can ensure that your elderly family member receives the best possible care while supporting your family’s financial well-being.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Home Care Powered by AUAF at 773-274-9262 to learn more about how we can assist you and your loved ones in maintaining a comfortable, independent lifestyle at home.
