The state of Virginia does offer financial assistance programs to help eligible seniors and their families pay for in-home care. In order to qualify for any of these programs, seniors must be eligible for Medicaid in the state of Virginia. The two programs offered in the state are Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus and Virginia’s PACE program.

Virginia’s Medicaid Waiver Programs

Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus is a Medicaid-managed program that provides long-term care and support programs. It is specifically designed to meet the needs of seniors and anyone with severe disabilities who would otherwise be placed in a nursing home. In order to qualify, seniors must undergo an assessment that proves they need nursing-home-level care and that their home is a safe place for them to receive care. Services covered by the program include private nursing care, environmental modifications, assistive technology, medication monitoring and emergency response systems. There is currently a soft cap on the number of hours of care provided each week but that can be negotiated in certain circumstances. 

The PACE Program, Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, assists chronically ill seniors aged 55 and older in receiving community-based health care services and support. This program is not available in every location in the state so seniors or family members will need to check if their area qualifies for assistance. The program is aimed at seniors who meet the basic requirements of nursing home care but would like to continue living in their own homes. 

Additional Support Services

There are additional financial assistance options in Virginia for seniors who require in-home care but don’t qualify for Medicaid or don’t meet the medical criteria. Virginia’s Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services offers the Personal Assistance Services program that helps seniors pay for assistance with nonmedical activities of daily living. Services provided include help with bathing, dressing and meal preparation. The program is designed to help seniors remain in their own homes and continue living as independently as possible. 

In addition, seniors can contact their local Area Agency on Aging to find out about charitable organizations and support services that may help them with the financial or physical assistance they need.