There are numerous situations that might lead residents of Connecticut or their families to require some extra help at home. Such needs can arise from reduced mobility or increased frailty due to factors like aging, disability, illness, or injury.
Most people in these circumstances prefer in-home care over relocating to a residential facility. This choice allows them to maintain a dignified and independent lifestyle within the familiarity of their own homes. While home care can sometimes encompass medical services, it more commonly involves caregivers providing a variety of non-medical care services to support vulnerable individuals living at home. These services include:
- Help with daily activities such as eating, bathing, and personal groomingLight housekeeping, including cleaning and laundry
- Transference (help sitting, standing, moving, and lying down)
- Meal planning and cooking
- Companionship and mental stimulation
- Transport to and from appointments and activities
While family and friends often serve as natural support systems for seniors or other people in need, they may not always possess the requisite time, expertise, or financial resources to provide comprehensive care. This is where in-home support services play a vital role. These programs provide valuable resources to support eligible individuals in receiving care within the comfort of their own homes. In this article, we’ll look at the availability of in-home support services in Connecticut.
Government In-Home Support Services In Connecticut
If you are a recipient of Medicaid, known as HUSKY Health in Connecticut, you may have the opportunity to access in-home support services through government assistance programs commonly referred to as Medicaid waivers.
Connecticut offers several Home Care Waiver Programs through HUSKY Health designed to support seniors in maintaining their independence and avoiding institutionalization. These programs include the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE), Community First Choice (CFC), and the Money Follows the Person Program.
Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE)
The CHCPE waiver is exclusively for seniors who are at risk of being placed in nursing homes. It covers a wide range of services, both within and outside the home environment, including homemaker assistance, case management, companion care, personal care, and assistive technology. Eligibility for this program is contingent upon meeting Connecticut’s Medicaid waiver income limit, and applications are available to download online in both English and Spanish.
<h3>Community First Choice (CFC)
Community First Choice offers Medicaid-eligible seniors in Connecticut the opportunity to access essential services while continuing to reside in their own homes. Services provided under this program encompass meal preparation, homemaker services, and personal care. Eligible seniors should be able to self-direct their services and require a level of care equivalent to nursing care. Participants have the flexibility to select qualified home care attendants or even family members as paid caregivers. Applications can be submitted by calling 2-1-1 or via an online platform.
Money Follows the Person Program
This initiative supports individuals who currently reside in nursing care facilities, hospitals, or other institutions, aiding them in transitioning back to their communities. The program offers a variety of services, including in-home care, home health care services, hospital discharge planning, and assistance in finding accessible housing when necessary. To qualify for this program, seniors must have lived in a residential long-term care setting for at least three months and confirm their to reside in the community. Additionally, they must meet the eligibility criteria for Medicaid benefits. Applications can be submitted by calling 2-1-1 or contacting the office online.
Problems With Government In-Home Support Services
While government-provided in-home services can be tremendously beneficial to families in need, it’s important to note that state resources are often stretched thin, leading to lengthy waiting lists and bureaucratic assessments. Even after this arduous process, some applicants may not meet the qualifications for government support or may find that the level of support they require isn’t met.
The good news is that there are private home care agencies in Connecticut that specialize in delivering high-quality in-home care services performed by skilled and professional caregivers. Some of these agencies even offer training and employment opportunities for family members who wish to become caregivers, providing crucial support to local communities. Additionally, home care agencies frequently collaborate with government in-home support services, using their expertise and connections to assist families in navigating the bureaucratic process and accessing their benefits.
Quality In-Home Care In Connecticut
Working with a private home care agency gives clients and their families more control over the care services they receive and can often provide a more comprehensive alternative to government support programs. For Connecticut residents, a good starting point is to reach out to Nova Home Care. We specialize in delivering professional, personalized in-home care services across all counties in the state of Connecticut. Our services are covered by Medicaid, and we are well-equipped to help you arrange the highest quality of care for yourself or your loved one, in collaboration with Connecticut in-home support programs.
To learn more about how we can help you or a family member live a safe, satisfying, and comfortable life at home, please contact us online or call 317-537-2490.