Florida pays for in-home care and home health care through its statewide Medicaid Managed Long-Term Care and Home Care for the Elderly programs. These programs are aimed at seniors who qualify for a nursing home level of care but are able to live safely in their own homes with some assistance. Below, learn what services are covered and find out if you might be eligible.

Medicaid Managed Long-Term Care

The Florida Medicaid Managed Long-Term Care program covers in-home visits from a registered nurse, licensed practical nurse or qualified home health aide. These professionals help with medication administration, illness monitoring, wound care and other medical services. This program also pays for personal care, home accessibility modifications, home-delivered meals, physical therapy and transportation to medical appointments. Visit the Department of Elder Affairs website for a full list of services recipients may qualify for.

To be eligible, individuals must:

  • Be 65 years or older, or be over 18 and eligible for Medicaid due to disability
  • Be at a nursing home level of care according to the Comprehensive Assessment and Review for Long-Term Care Services (CARES) unit at the Department of Elder Affairs

Home Care for the Elderly Program (HCE)

HCE is a non-Medicaid program that provides subsidies to help seniors stay at home as an alternative to nursing home care. Recipients get a base subsidy of $160 per month plus additional subsidies for certain other services they need. Subsidies may be used to pay for home health care, accessibility modifications, medical/incontinence supplies, assistive technology and other related items or services. HCE services are provided through local Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs).

To qualify, seniors must:

  • Be 60 years or older
  • Meet income and asset limit requirements
  • Receive benefits as a Special Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) or Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB)
  • Receive SSI
  • Live with an approved caregiver who is able to provide care or arrange care