Tennessee does pay for in-home care. Eligible seniors can get help to pay for services through the TennCare CHOICES program and the OPTIONS for Community Living program. Both programs are state-funded and administered through local Area Agencies on Aging and Disability. Both programs aim to help seniors improve their overall quality of life, meet their daily care needs and remain in their homes for as long as possible.

What’s Covered Under TennCare CHOICES and OPTIONS?

The CHOICES and OPTIONS programs help seniors aged 65 and older pay for in-home care, including homemaker services, personal care and meals in their homes. These services include bathing, getting in and out of bed, dressing, using the bathroom, meal prep, companionship and transportation. Additional services covered by CHOICES include assistive technologies, home modifications, insurance counseling and respite care.

To qualify for CHOICES, seniors must be eligible for state Medicaid and require a nursing home level of care. OPTIONS doesn’t have income eligibility requirements; however, a sliding fee schedule is based on the applicant’s income.

Applying for In-Home Care Financial Assistance

Seniors may apply for the OPTIONS for Community Living Program or the TennCare CHOICES program through any local Area Agency on Aging and Disability. Seniors may also receive more information on the programs, including eligibility requirements, by contacting the statewide toll-free line at (866) 836-6678.