Do you have a family member or loved one who struggles to care for themself because of a physical or mental condition? You may be responsible for caring for your loved one with special needs. Your loved one may require transportation, around-the-clock care, medical supplies and financial support.
A commitment as large as this can be physically and financially taxing. It can take a lot of time and energy to help ensure your loved one’s needs are met. This may severely impact you and your family members.
You may be entitled to programs that can compensate you for the services you provide your loved one. Here is what you should know:
Colorado’s paid family caregiving programs
People who provide their services to meet the well-being of loved ones with special needs may be entitled to financial support. There are several financial support programs that pay caregivers to care for family members with disabilities, chronic illnesses or age-related medical conditions to ease the financial burden of their invaluable services.
Many of these programs are covered by Medicaid’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). The HCBS provides waivers so family members can receive care at home. Many of these services also provide alternatives to nursing home care. These waivers include:
- Brain Injury (BI) Waiver: Establishes support services for individuals 16 years of age or older who have brain injuries.
- Children’s Home and Community-Based Services (CHCBS) Waiver: Establishes care, management and in-house support services for children younger than 18 years of age with special needs.
- Elderly, Blind and Disabled (EBD) Waiver: Establishes support services for elderly individuals 65 years of age or older and individuals with visual impairments, HIV/AIDS or other disabilities.
- Supported Living Services (SLS) Waiver: Establishes support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental challenges.
Understanding what it takes to be eligible for the HCBS programs is important. You may need to enroll in a self-direction program, which may include checking what type of care a loved one needs and additional training to meet their needs. There are many other programs that provide financial compensation for the care of loved ones. You may need to reach out for legal guidance to explore your options.