Help for
Caregivers

Press Release -- 12.9.04

Home Care Benefits Available for Low Income Seniors

Denver, CO. Low income seniors want to stay in their own homes, but many times are unable to get the services they need from the community. Individuals often have difficulty qualifying for home care services through Medicaid because they do not meet the functional criteria that was established by the State of Colorado about a year ago.

Colorado has re-opened the Home Care Allowance Program. The Home Care Allowance program is designed to serve low income seniors and others who need help to stay at home.

The program can help with activities of daily living such as transfers, bladder care, bowel care, mobility, dressing, bathing, hygiene, and eating.

Seniors can also get help with such things as meal preparation, housework, laundry, and shopping. Other services that can be provided include medicine management, appointment management, money management, accessing resources, and telephoning.

Eligibility is based on financial need, the client's functional capacity score, the client's need for paid score, and available appropriations from the State Legislature. Legal immigrants are also eligible for services.

Individuals who receive Old Age Pension (monthly income of $604 in 2005) are eligible for Home Care Allowance. Other low income individuals may also be eligible. For information, contact the county Department of Social/Human Services.

The client's functional capacity score is based on an assessment that is done by the case manager for Options for Long Term Care using the "old" ULTC 100. To be eligible, individuals must receive a score of 21 or above.

The "need for paid score" is determined on the frequency that services need to be provided. Individuals can receive services on a regular basis. In some instances individuals can receive services at least twice a day five days a week.

The case manager from the Options for Long Term Care is responsible for determining functional eligibility and the need for paid score. Individuals will receive between $162 and $439 per month to pay the home care provider (an individual or agency) for services.

Payments are made directly to the individual receiving services each month. That individual is responsible for paying the person providing services (or the agency).

Individuals who are living in their own homes and/or apartments can receive these services.

For information on whether you qualify for Home Care Allowance, contact the Options for Long Term Care agency in your area, the county Department of Social (or Human) Services, or 303-333-3482.