CT Home Care Program for Elders Case Management Freedom of Choice Waiver

The Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) is a vital Medicaid waiver program in healthcare designed to assist elderly individuals at risk of nursing home care. By offering various services, CHCPE aims to support eligible clients in continuing to live independently at home.

Overview of the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders 

The primary purpose of the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders is to enable eligible seniors to continue living independently at home while receiving necessary care and services. It aims to enhance the quality of life for the elderly population by offering support services that address their health and daily living needs.

The CHCPE targets individuals aged 65 or older who are Connecticut residents and require assistance with activities of daily living like bathing, dressing, eating, medication management, and toileting. The program focuses on those at risk of nursing home placement, providing them with an alternative option to receive care and support in their homes.

The specific goals and objectives of the CHCPE center around promoting aging in place, enhancing the well-being and dignity of older adults, and ensuring they can access the care and assistance they need to maintain their independence.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the CHCPE, applicants must meet several criteria, including being 65 years or older, being a Connecticut resident, and being at risk of nursing home placement. At the risk of nursing home placement, the applicant requires assistance with critical daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, taking medications, and toileting. Financial eligibility is also a determining factor.

• Financial Considerations: The CHCPE considers gross monthly income and countable assets to determine eligibility. Gross monthly income includes wages, pensions, Social Security, Veterans benefits, and Supplemental Security Income. Countable assets exclude the primary residence, personal belongings, and essential means of transportation (motor vehicle). Other assets, such as burial funds, burial plots, and life insurance policies, may have specific rules.
• Income and Asset Limits: The Medicaid waiver income limit is typically $2,742.00 per month or less, while state-funded clients may not have a specific income limit. However, state-funded clients are usually required to contribute 3% of the cost of their services. The asset limits for the CHCPE vary depending on the individual or couple's circumstances.

Services and Supports

The CHCPE offers eligible care recipients various services to support their home-independent living. These services include:

1. Care Management Services: Professional care managers assist in coordinating and managing the care and services needed.
2. Adult Day Health Services: Programs providing supervision, care, and social activities for elderly individuals during the day.
3. Companion Services: Companionship and support services to combat loneliness and enhance emotional well-being.
4. Home-Delivered Meals: Nutritious meals are delivered to the client's home to meet their dietary needs.
5. Homemaker Services: Assistance with household tasks, light cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation.
6. Assisted Living Services: Support services tailored for those residing in assisted living facilities.
7. Personal Care Services: With some rare exceptions, family members are usually not eligible for payment when caring for relatives.
8. Chore Assistance: This service is part of a package for qualified applicants meeting all other criteria.
9. Adult Family Living: Assistance with daily living provided in a family setting.
10. Bill Payer: Help with managing financial matters and bill payments.
11. Support Broker: Assistance with navigating and accessing services.
12. Care Transitions: Support during transitions from one healthcare setting to another.
13. Chronic Disease Self-Management: Education and support for managing chronic health conditions.
14. Assistive Technology: Devices and tools to enhance independent living and safety.

Compensation for Caregivers

The Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders does not typically provide direct compensation to unpaid family caregivers for caring for their relatives. However, there is a self-directed option available under this Medicaid waiver program. The self-directed option allows eligible individuals more control over their care by managing their allocated budget for services. While family members may not receive direct payment as caregivers, the self-directed option empowers them to decide the type and source of care their loved ones receive, enabling greater flexibility and personalized support within the program's guidelines. This approach acknowledges the critical role of family caregivers while offering financial flexibility.

Learn more about Medicaid self-directed care >>

A Note from Givers

If you care for a loved one and wish to determine if you are eligible for compensation or the self-directed option, don't hesitate to fill out this form. Your dedication matters, and it's time to make a positive change.