Finding Publicly Funded Services

The purpose of this paper is to:

provide an overview of how publicly available services are funded,
describe core programs, and
address qualification criteria to obtain services

In order to obtain publicly funded services, it is important that patients, family members, and caregivers understand what these services are and how they are funded. Although there has been an increased in services for the elderly and disabled persons, the need for services continues to be greater than available programs.

This papers aims to provide a general guidance about some of the main publicly funded services. Although this roadmap is modeled after services available in the state of Florida, it can be helpful to consumers in other states as it shows how services flow down from the federal government to the local level.

(Chart provided courtesy of: Elder Options)

First , it is important to note that the availability of services depends on two crucial factors:

Availability of funds, and
Meeting the eligibility criteria for services (each program has its own set of criteria).

Second, it is crucial to understand that although programs use the same resources, each program is managed independently from each other and therefore, quantity and quality of services differ by area. Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind while looking for services is to be persistent and patient. Most likely patients and/or their caregivers will have to call around before finding a service or program that meets their need.

Finally, it is important to note that getting placed on waiting lists is part of the process, as there is only so many resources available. These lists are not usually based on a "first come, first served" basis, and waiting lists are usually based on the need of the care receiver.

Elderly Services

Aged & Disabled Adults Waiver Medicaid Waiver

This waiver allows physically disabled persons aged 18+ who meet nursing facility level of care to remain living at home and in the community.
Services include: adult day health care, attendant care, case management, homemaker, personal care services, and home-delivered meals.

Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative (ADI)

Services provided under ADI: comprehensive assessments from memory disorder clinics; model day care programs; respite care; supportive services such as counseling and caregiver training; and research database/ brain bank.

Alzheimer’s Disease Medicaid Waiver

The program is set to be tailored to the needs of each beneficiary as revealed by the needs assessment and care planning process.
Services provided may include: case management, adult day care, respite care, wandering alarm system, and caregiver training among others.

Assisted Living for the Elderly Waiver

This waiver allows persons aged 65+ and/or those physically disabled persons aged 60-64 who meet the nursing facility level of care to remain living at home and in the community.
Services include: case management, assisted living, and incontinence supplies.

Community Care for the Elderly (CCE)

This program assists functionally impaired elders to live reasonably independent lives in their own homes or in the houses of caregivers by providing them with services such as homemaker services, personal care, and respite care.

Home Care for the Elderly (HCE)

This program provides subsidy (average $106.00) to help caregivers maintain low-income seniors (60+) in the home.
The monthly subsidy payment is made to the caregiver for medical supplies & services.

Nursing Home Diversion

Allows persons aged 65+ (county by county) who meet the nursing facility level of care and who are dually eligible for Medicaid and Medicare Parts A & B to remain living at home and in the community.

Older American Act (OAA)

To be eligible for OAA programs, individuals must be 60 or older. Preference is given to elders with the greatest economic or social needs, particularly low income minority individuals.
Services provided include but are not limited to: congregate meals and nutrition education at senior centers; home delivered meals; caregiver support, home maker and chore services; transportation; and information and referral.

Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders (SHINE)

The SHINE program provide information, counseling and assistance on Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare supplemental insurance, long-term care insurance, prescription assistance and Medicare fraud.

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