National Family Caregiver Support Program

The motto of this program is “Home is where you want to be, no matter what your age”. The major focus of the National Family Caregiver support Program is to reinforce the care being given to frail family members in their homes by reimbursing some of the costs of care giving supplies, services, assistive devices, and home modifications. The major benefit is that it allows caregivers to choose from available services and to provide the type and quality of care they would like to choose for their loved ones at home. The caregiver does not need to reside with the family member receiving care.

An assessment begins the process to determine which of the package of benefits is best suited to the needs of the caregiver and senior receiving the care. Benefits may also include counseling, education and financial information, and a care manager will assist the family with their choices and options. A cost-sharing approach grants income-eligible families up to $500.00 per month to help with out-of-pocket expenses ranging from respite care, adult day care, or in-home services. IN addition, one-time grants of up to $5000 may be given to qualified families to modify the home, purchase assistive devices or supplies to accommodate their senior family member. Such adaptations might include installing stair glides or wheelchair ramps, or modifying a bathroom.

Eligibility for the program is based on a sliding scale and household income, or income of the recipient of the care, if the senior lives alone. Local county offices of Aging and Adult Services can determine if your family might benefit from this program and establish eligibility. They should be contacted for information.