In-home care services provide invaluable support to seniors who wish to age in place while receiving the assistance they need with daily activities. However, paying for in-home care can be challenging for many families. Fortunately, several organizations and programs offer financial assistance to help cover the cost of in-home care services. In this blog, we’ll explore the organizations that can assist with in-home care payments and how to access their resources.
Checklist of Organizations that Can Help Pay for In-Home Care
Medicare
What it covers: Medicare provides limited coverage for in-home care under specific conditions, such as when a senior is homebound and requires skilled nursing care. It does not cover long-term personal care, but it may assist with short-term care following an injury or surgery.
Eligibility: Must be 65 or older or have certain disabilities.
Website: Medicare.gov
Medicaid
What it covers: Medicaid offers more extensive coverage for long-term in-home care services. In California, the Medi-Cal program helps low-income seniors pay for various in-home care services through the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program.
Eligibility: Must meet income and asset requirements.
Website: Medi-Cal
Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits
What it covers: Veterans who served on active duty may be eligible for in-home care services through the VA. The Aid and Attendance benefit provides additional funding for veterans and their surviving spouses to help cover the cost of in-home care.
Eligibility: Veterans must have served during wartime and meet specific medical and income requirements.
Website: VA.gov
Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)
What it covers: Local AAA offices provide assistance with finding in-home care services and connecting seniors to community resources. They may also offer limited financial assistance or help with accessing other funding options.
Eligibility: Available to seniors aged 60 and older.
Website: Eldercare Locator
Private Insurance
What it covers: Some private long-term care insurance plans offer coverage for in-home care. It’s important to review your policy to see what is included, as coverage varies by plan.
Eligibility: Dependent on the insurance plan and terms.
Website: Contact your insurance provider.
Nonprofit Organizations and Charities
What it covers: Various nonprofit organizations provide financial assistance for in-home care, particularly for seniors facing financial hardship. Some examples include The National Council on Aging (NCOA) and The Alzheimer’s Association.
Eligibility: Requirements vary by organization.
Website: National Council on Aging
Life Insurance Policy Conversions
What it covers: Some life insurance policies can be converted to help pay for in-home care through Life Care Funding or similar programs. This option provides a way to access funds without waiting for the policyholder to pass away.
Eligibility: Policyholders must have a life insurance policy with sufficient value.
Website: Life Care Funding
How Home Care Agencies Can Help
In addition to financial assistance from organizations, home care agencies can offer flexible payment plans and help you navigate insurance options. Many agencies have experience working with programs like Medicare and Medicaid and can assist families in understanding their options. They may also connect you with resources that provide financial support or offer sliding scale fees based on income.
Paying for in-home care doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With resources from Medicare, Medicaid, the VA, and other organizations, families can find financial relief. By exploring all available options and working with a reputable home care agency, you can ensure that your loved ones receive the care they need without breaking the bank.
