At Dakota Home Care, we believe everyone deserves the comfort and dignity of aging or recovering in their own home. Fortunately, North Dakota offers a variety of state programs designed to make in-home care accessible and affordable for individuals and families across the state.
1. Service Payments for the Elderly and Disabled (SPED)
The SPED program assists individuals who require help with daily living activities but do not qualify for Medicaid. Services provided include:
- Homemaker support
- Personal care
- Respite care for family caregivers
- Home modifications for safety
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be a North Dakota resident.
- Age 18 or older.
- Require assistance with at least four activities of daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing).
- Monthly income and assets must fall below state limits (varies by household size).
- Cannot qualify for Medicaid.
2. Expanded SPED (Ex-SPED)
This program offers similar services as SPED but is specifically for individuals at risk of entering a nursing home. It is designed to help them remain in their own homes while receiving necessary care.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Same as SPED, with the additional criterion of being at risk of placement in a nursing home or similar institution.
- Income and asset limits apply.
- Must demonstrate a need for in-home care based on functional assessment.
3. Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers
Medicaid HCBS waivers allow eligible individuals to receive care in their homes or community settings instead of institutional care. These waivers aim to delay or prevent the need for long-term nursing home care. Services include:
- Personal care assistance
- Specialized equipment and supplies
- Homemaking and meal preparation
- Environmental modifications for accessibility
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must qualify for Medicaid (low income and limited assets).
- Must meet medical criteria that show a need for long-term care.
- Be at risk of institutional care without these services.
- Services are only available for individuals who meet nursing home level-of-care criteria.
4. Personal Care Services (PCS)
PCS is ideal for individuals who require hands-on personal care to remain safely at home. This Medicaid-funded program provides help with everyday tasks such as:
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Mobility assistance
- Housekeeping
Eligibility Requirements:
- Medicaid-eligible.
- Have a documented need for assistance with personal care tasks like bathing, grooming, or mobility.
- A physician’s order or assessment confirming the need for PCS.
5. Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)
PACE is available for individuals aged 55 and older who qualify for nursing home care but prefer to stay at home. The program offers comprehensive medical and social services, including:
- Primary care
- Therapy
- Personal care support
- Social and recreational activities
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be 55 years or older.
- Live in a PACE service area.
- Require nursing home-level care but prefer to live at home.
- Be able to live safely in the community with PACE support.
- Financial eligibility determined by Medicaid or private pay.
6. ND Assistive
ND Assistive provides funding and resources for assistive technology to enhance independence at home. This program helps individuals access equipment like grab bars, medication dispensers, and emergency alarms.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Age 60 or older or have a documented disability.
- Must reside in a non-institutional setting (e.g., private home).
- Income and asset limits may apply depending on the funding source for assistive devices.
7. Respite Care and Caregiver Support
North Dakota also supports family caregivers by providing respite services, caregiver training, and financial assistance through programs like SPED and Ex-SPED.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Care recipients must meet SPED/Ex-SPED criteria.
- Respite services are available for unpaid family caregivers.
- Functional and financial assessments are required.
8. Older Americans Act (OAA) Services
OAA-funded programs offer various services for individuals aged 60 and older, including:
- Home-delivered meals
- Transportation
- Health and wellness programs
Eligibility Requirements:
- Age 60 or older.
- No specific income or asset limits, but priority is given to those with the greatest social or economic need.
- Some programs (e.g., home-delivered meals) may require an assessment to determine the level of need.
Why Choose Dakota Home Care?
At Dakota Home Care, we’re here to help you navigate these programs and customize a care plan that meets your unique needs. Our team is experienced in providing personalized in-home care that enhances quality of life, whether through skilled nursing, homemaking, or companionship.
Get in touch today to learn how these programs can help you or a loved one remain safe and comfortable at home.