Low-income seniors who are assessed as being homebound and requiring a nursing home level of care may qualify for help with the cost of home health care. Medicare does not usually cover the cost of in-home care services. However, Medicaid waivers may cover home health care services for seniors who are unable to leave their homes without careful planning and assistance.

Home health care services can help seniors avoid having to move into a nursing home. Seniors have the opportunity to remain in their homes, close to friends and family, and stay connected with their local communities while still receiving the care they need.

Medicaid May Cover All or Part of the Cost of Home Health Care

North Dakota’s Home and Community-Based Services Medicaid Waiver can help cover the costs of home health care for some seniors. The waiver is administered by the Aging Services Division of the North Dakota Department of Human Services and is a consumer-directed waiver that gives seniors the option of choosing their own care providers. Seniors whose income or assets are above qualifying limits for Medicaid may be still eligible for some financial aid through Service Payments for the Elderly and Disabled (SPED) programs.

Home Modifications May Also Be Covered by Medicaid

In addition to home health care services, Medicaid may also cover the cost of assistive devices and home modifications. This may include improvements such as ramps for seniors who cannot use stairs, bathroom conversions or personal emergency alert systems.