In-home care can be an amazing resource for individuals focused on self-determination. However, accessing in-home care through the Self-Determination Program (SDP) can be confusing if you haven’t done it before. Understanding live-in caregivers, SDP coverage, and other care options can help you decide what’s best for you or your loved one. Let’s take a closer look.
What is a Live-in Caregiver?
A live-in caregiver is someone who lives in the home of the person they care for. They provide help during the day and night. This includes bathing, dressing, making meals, giving medication, and offering companionship.
Live-in caregivers are great for those who need constant support but want to live at home instead of in a residential facility or group setting.
Many live-in caregivers are family caregivers, but some are professionals who work for an agency or independently.
Does the SDP Pay for In-Home Care Services?
The Self-Determination Program gives people with developmental disabilities more control over their care. SDP funds can be used for in-home care, including live-in caregivers. These services must be part of the person’s care plan and necessary for their needs.
The SDP covers additional costs of rent and food for an unrelated live-in caregiver who lives in the same household as the participant. To qualify, participants must live in a home they rent, lease, or own. Note that a legal guardian cannot provide this service. Also, the participant cannot live in the caregiver’s home.
Review current SDP guidelines to learn more about what is covered.
What Are My Other Options for In-Home Care?
Aside from live-in caregivers, here are other in-home care options:
Hourly In-Home Caregivers
Hourly caregivers help on a set schedule. This can be a few hours a day or full-time, but they don’t live with you.
This option is flexible and can be adjusted to your needs. You can arrange their visits to match your routine, whether you need help in the mornings, evenings, or throughout the day.
Hourly caregivers can assist with daily activities like bathing, dressing, meal prep, medication reminders, and light housekeeping.
Respite Care
Respite care gives main caregivers a much-needed break. It’s short-term care that lets family members or regular caregivers rest while ensuring the person still gets the care they need. This type of care can be scheduled for a few hours, a whole day, or even longer periods, like weekends or a week.
Respite care is beneficial to both the caregiver and the person receiving care. Caregivers get time to relax, recharge, and take care of their own needs. This reduces stress and prevents burnout. Meanwhile, the person receiving care gets a change of pace and the opportunity to interact with someone new.
Learn more about respite care and its benefits for both the caregiver and the person receiving care.
Specialized In-Home Care
Some caregivers have special training to support adults with disabilities. They can assist with specific needs related to conditions like autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other developmental or physical disabilities. These caregivers offer expert support and tailored care plans for these specific needs.
Find Services & Supports Tailored to You
Finding the right care for your needs can greatly improve your quality of life. So, whether it’s an in-home caregiver or another type of service provider, it’s worth it to discover which options are available to you.
If you are considering your in-home care options through the Self-Determination Program, we can help. Our independent facilitation services for adults with disabilities are designed to guide you through processes just like this one.
Reach out to NeuroNav today for a free consultation and to learn more. We’re here to help you advocate for yourself, find the support you need, and start pursuing your self-determination goals.
