Along with the work and stress of ensuring that aging loved ones are receiving the best possible care at home, families are also faced with the challenge of figuring out how to pay for in-home senior care. In Connecticut, there are several ways to finance non-medical home care services, which can range from personal care to help with daily tasks.
Because it is likely that seniors’ needs will evolve over time, as well as the family’s income and asset situation, it is important to partner with a provider that is willing and able to accept most or all of the possible payment methods. That is the best way to ensure the continuity of care that your loved one will need over time and as needs may change.
1. Private Pay (Out-of-Pocket)
The most straightforward way to pay for in-home care services is through private pay. This means that the senior or their family covers the cost directly, paying out-of-pocket for the services. Payment schedules can vary depending on the frequency of care. For example, if services are provided daily, families may be billed weekly. If care is needed less frequently, bills may arrive monthly.
Although this is a common method, many families opt to explore other payment options to alleviate the financial burden that comes with caring for their senior family members.
2. Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCI) is a fantastic option for those families who planned ahead. It should not be confused with health insurance, as LTCI is designed specifically to cover expenses related to non-medical home care, assisted living, and other senior care services. If you’re in your 50s or 60s, now is the time to look into purchasing a policy for yourself, as it’s far more affordable when purchased at a younger age, rather than right before you need it.
For those who already have LTCI, this insurance can significantly offset the cost of home care services. Some seniors even discover they have policies through former employers that they may have forgotten about, offering an invaluable but unexpected benefit. Many of these older policies that were provided when corporate benefits packages were very rich offer an unlimited benefit, meaning they can cover services indefinitely. This is nothing short of a financial lifesaver for families facing caregiving costs.
3. The Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE)
The Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) is a state-specific Medicaid waiver program administered by the Department of Social Services (DSS). It is designed for seniors with limited income and assets who require home care services. To qualify, individuals must meet certain criteria based on income, assets, age, and health conditions.
The CHCPE covers a range of services, including personal care assistance, homemaking, 24-hour live-in care, nursing services, and even programs like Meals on Wheels and adult daycare. If you or your loved one is on Medicaid and meets the program requirements, CHCPE can provide significant financial relief.
4. Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits
For veterans and their spouses, the Veterans Affairs offers two key programs that can help cover the cost of home care:
- Veterans Aid and Attendance Pension Program: This program provides a monthly stipend to veterans and their spouses who meet specific income, asset and service criteria. The funds can be used for non-medical home care services, helping veterans access care without using up personal savings.
- VA-Sponsored Home Care: This program is available for veterans who may have been injured during service or meet certain income qualifications. Unlike the Aid and Attendance Pension, where the funds go to the veteran, VA-sponsored home care allows agencies to bill the VA directly for services. This often results in higher reimbursement rates, allowing for more comprehensive care.
This is another benefit that many families come to us not knowing they qualify for, but after some education and research on our part, they discover that they do!
5. Medicare Advantage Plans (Limited Option)
Though Medicare does not typically cover non-medical home care, some Medicare Advantage plans offer limited benefits for in-home services. This option is still in its infancy and not widely available, but it’s worth asking about if you or your loved one are on a Medicare Advantage plan. However, due to the high cost of home care, many experts believe that broader Medicare coverage for non-medical services is unlikely to be implemented.
A Continuous-Care Approach to Home Care for Connecticut Seniors
It’s crucial to explore all available options when planning for in-home senior care. Families often discover benefits they didn’t know they had — whether it’s a long-term care insurance policy from years ago, VA benefits they didn’t know they qualified for, or eligibility for the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders. It’s always worth consulting with professionals who can help guide you through these possibilities.
At our agency, we believe in helping families navigate these options. We are happy to help guide families through this process, including doing the research for them to identify any means possible to help cover the costs of caring for loved ones and allowing them to remain safely and comfortably in their homes. Call us today at (833) 634-8668 to get the conversation and research going!
And if you’re paying out-of-pocket today and qualify for Medicaid or VA benefits down the road, we remain committed to providing continuous care for your loved ones. Understanding the resources available to you and your family can make a significant difference in the quality and affordability of care your loved one receives.a
