Many older adults have strong feelings about nursing homes. They may feel that they will be placed there and forgotten.
However, they may be at a point where it’s no longer safe for them to be home by themselves. It places a significant burden on the “sandwich generation,” who are simultaneously trying to care for children and aging parents.
Home and Community-Based Alternatives Waivers (HCBA)
In addition to nursing home care, Medi-Cal offers a wide variety of long-term care programs to support California’s senior population. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) approved California on February 2, 2023, to implement alternative solutions to help people stay in their homes and communities who might otherwise need to be in a nursing home.
These waivers allow people to receive necessary services at home and receive care tailored to their individual needs, such as:
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) provides house cleaning, meal prep, laundry, grocery shopping and personal care services. In addition, the IHSS+ waiver will pay some family members to provide the care.
The Multipurpose Senior Services Program (MSSP) provides long-term services for elderly adults who are certified for nursing home placement but wish to remain in their homes.
Community-Based Adult Services (CBAS) offers adult day care and adult health care for older adults. In addition, they provide meals, nursing and therapy, and transportation to and from the center.
If your older loved one needs skilled nursing care for a short time, the California Community Transitions (CCT) Program can provide them the support they need while they transition back to their home.
There are requirements to be eligible for these programs, and navigating the Medi-Cal system may seem overwhelming. Working with someone who understands the various programs can help ensure your elderly family members get the necessary benefits.