Jan 21 2025

CT Programs & Assistance For Seniors In Need Of Home Care Help

Supporting Independence: Connecticut's Programs for Non-Medical At-Home Senior Care In Connecticut, the aging population has access to several state-run and state-supported programs designed to help seniors maintain their independence by providing non-medical at-home care services. These programs cater to a wide array of needs, focusing on assisting with daily living activities, promoting social engagement, and preventing the need for more costly institutional care. Here's an overview of some key initiatives:

Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE)
The CHCPE is a cornerstone program aimed at enabling seniors aged 65 and older to live independently in their homes or communities rather than moving to nursing homes. This program is particularly beneficial for those at risk of nursing home placement due to their inability to perform basic activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, and eating.

• Services Offered: The program covers a broad spectrum of services including personal care assistance, adult day health, home-delivered meals, homemaker services, and even assistance with minor home modifications. It also offers adult family living (AFL) options where seniors can live with a caregiver in a home-like setting.
• Eligibility: To be eligible, seniors must meet both functional and financial criteria. While there's no strict income limit for state-funded categories, Medicaid-funded services require adherence to specific income and asset limits. Participants might need to contribute towards the cost if their income exceeds certain levels.
• Application and Enrollment: Interested individuals should contact the Department of Social Services for application details. Note that program participation might be subject to waitlists due to funding or enrollment caps.

Individual and Family Supports Waiver
Focused on providing social care, this waiver allows for non-medical assistance tailored to the senior's circumstances. This includes personal care services and emergency response systems, with the unique allowance of paying family members to act as caregivers, including as live-in companions.

• Eligibility: This program targets low-income seniors with social care needs who are still capable of directing their own care.
• Application: Seniors can request an application from their regional Department of Social Services office.

Congregate Housing Services Program (CHSP)
While not purely a home care service, the CHSP offers subsidized housing with additional support that can be akin to at-home care for seniors.

• Services: Includes hot meals, housekeeping, and transportation assistance within 14 designated locations across the state.
• Eligibility: Seniors must meet income criteria and reside in one of the program's housing facilities.

Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program
This program aims to provide relief to primary caregivers by offering adult day care and homemaker services.

• Benefits: It helps in reducing caregiver stress and enables seniors to remain in familiar environments while engaging socially.
• Eligibility: Primarily for caregivers needing a break, but benefits the seniors directly by offering them social interaction and care.

ABI Waiver II
Specifically for those with brain injuries, this Medicaid waiver provides services that can be extended to home care settings.

• Services: Can include personal care assistance and support for independent living.
• Eligibility: For individuals 18 or older with brain injuries requiring a certain level of care typically found in institutional settings.

Connecticut's commitment to senior care is evident in the variety of programs aimed at supporting elderly residents in their homes. These initiatives not only cater to the physical needs of seniors but also enhance their quality of life by promoting independence and community engagement. However, access to these services can sometimes be limited by funding or eligibility criteria, so planning and early application are crucial. For more specific details or to apply for these programs, seniors or their families should reach out to the relevant state agencies or use the resources provided by the state for elder care support.