Kentucky does not pay for in-home care. However, the Bluegrass State does offer several options to help seniors cover some of the costs associated with aging in place. Like most states, financial assistance for in-home care depends on the level of care needed and income in Kentucky.

In particular circumstances, seniors can get some financial relief for daily living activities such as eating, bathing, dressing and shopping. However, in most cases, the state does not cover non-medical in-home care. Eligible seniors can take advantage of specific state resources through benefits such as Medicare and Medicaid coverage, waiver programs and subsidies for financial assistance. 

Medicare vs. Medicaid Coverage for In-Home Care

Medicare does not provide coverage for daily living activities in Kentucky. However, seniors undergoing rehabilitation or recovering from an illness or injury may be eligible for limited financial assistance. This assistance must be combined with home health care for physical, occupational or speech therapy. Seniors must have a referral from their primary care physician for this type of coverage. 

On the other hand, Medicaid does offer some financial assistance to seniors who need help paying for in-home medical costs. Through waiver programs and subsidies, the state’s senior population can get some support to help offset at-home medical expenses. 

Waivers for In-Home Medical Costs

Seniors who live in Kentucky and meet certain requirements may be eligible for one of the state’s four waiver programs. These waiver programs cover some in-home care expenses but have various qualifications. For example, seniors must be 65 or older and eligible for Medicare to qualify for an attendant, adult day health, home adaptations and modifications, home-delivered meals and respite care services through the Home and Community Based Waiver. 

Kentucky’s seniors 60 and older who need support for certain daily living activities or may need institutional care can apply for the Homecare Program. Seniors living independently with disabilities also may qualify for the Hart-Supported Living Program. This program promotes aging in place and homeownership with assistance. Another program for the state’s seniors who live independently with disabilities is the Personal Care Attendant Program, which subsidizes the cost of in-home care. Eligible seniors must have a permanent or long-term disability to qualify. Seniors can contact Kentucky’s Department for Aging and Independent Living for more information about waiver programs that offer financial assistance for in-home medical costs.