Who Qualifies for Home Health Care Financial Assistance in California?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
Seniors who are at least 65 years old, disabled or blind may qualify for home health care financial assistance in California. This support is provided by the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program, which is administered by the California Department of Social Services. Additionally, the Medi-Cal Home and Community-Based Alternatives (HCBA) Waiver may provide some funding for in-home health care services.
In-Home Supportive Services
- Be a permanent U.S. resident
- Reside in California
- Be eligible for Medi-Cal coverage
- Live at home
- Submit a completed Health Care Certification form
Medi-Cal Home and Community-Based Alternatives Waiver
Services provided under the HCBA include home health aide care, homemaker services, non-medical transportation and case management, as well as various other services intended to promote the well-being and quality of life of its participants.
To qualify for participation in this program, seniors must:
- Be eligible for Medi-Cal coverage or have an income that would qualify them for Medi-Cal if their spouse’s resources weren’t counted
- Require a nursing facility level of care