IA Consumer Directed Attendant Care Program

The Consumer Directed Attendant Care (CDAC) program in Iowa allows people to have help in their own homes. It is part of the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver program, which allows Medicaid recipients to find and hire their in-home care. In this article, we will discuss how much family members get paid for caregiving, caregiver pay, how much Medicaid pays for a caregiver, and how to get paid to be a caregiver for parents.

Overview of Consumer-Directed Attendant Care

Consumer Directed Attendant Care (CDAC) is a program that allows people to have help in their own homes. It is part of the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver program, which allows Medicaid recipients to find and hire their in-home care. CDAC services help people do things they usually would for themselves if they could. People may reach a point where they need help to remain in their homes due to an accident, illness, disability, or aging.

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible for the Consumer Directed Attendant Care (CDAC) program in Iowa, you must meet certain income limits and disability criteria. You must also be a resident of Iowa and require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) or instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). CDAC services are available to Medicaid recipients eligible for the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver program.

Services and supports

The Consumer Directed Attendant Care (CDAC) program in Iowa offers a comprehensive range of services and supports to individuals with disabilities, enabling them to lead more independent lives while receiving necessary assistance. Some of the services and supports provided by the CDAC program include:

1. Personal Care Assistance: Qualified attendants help with daily activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and eating.
2. Homemaker Services: Support with light housekeeping tasks, meal preparation, and household management.
3. Respite Care: Temporary relief for primary caregivers, allowing them to take breaks from their caregiving responsibilities.
4. Independent Living Skills Training: Assistance in acquiring and enhancing skills required for independent living.
5. Medication Management: Guidance and oversight to ensure individuals take their medications as prescribed.
6. Community Integration: Support to engage in community activities, social interactions, and recreational opportunities.
7. Transportation Assistance: Help with getting to medical appointments, shopping, and other essential destinations.
8. Home Modifications: Funding for necessary modifications to make the home environment more accessible and safe.
9. Assistive Technology: Provision of devices and tools that aid individuals in performing tasks and activities.
10. Behavioral Support: Assistance in managing challenging behaviors and developing coping strategies.

The CDAC program operates under a consumer-directed model, meaning that participants have a significant say in selecting and managing their caregivers and the type of services they receive. This person-centered approach empowers individuals to tailor their support to their needs and preferences, promoting greater autonomy and dignity in their daily lives.

Compensation for Family Caregivers

The Consumer Directed Attendant Care (CDAC) program has a self-directed option that recognizes the vital role that family members often play in providing care to individuals with disabilities. Through this option, eligible individuals can hire and compensate family members as their caregivers, allowing them to receive financial support for their caregiving responsibilities. This approach acknowledges the importance of maintaining familial relationships while addressing the needs of the individual requiring care. It aligns with the program's consumer-directed philosophy, emphasizing individual choice and control over the support and services received.

Learn more about Medicaid self-directed care >>

A note from Givers

Take a moment to complete this form to determine if you may be eligible for caregiver compensation.