Learn about Care Options

Community Services

1. In-Home Supportive Services Program

The In-Home Supportive Services Program (IHSS), funded by the state, provides services to help some Californians with low incomes who are over 65, blind, or disabled remain safely in their homes.

While IHSS does not provide skilled nursing or therapy services, it covers personal care such as eating, dressing, getting to and from the toilet or bed, as well as other services including housecleaning, meal preparation, laundry, and grocery shopping. The program may also include transportation, respite care, household and chore services, protective supervision for those who are confused or mentally impaired, and training for self-care and caregivers.

To qualify, an individual must be 65 years or older, blind, or disabled, live in a private home, and require personal care. He or she must also:

• Receive or be eligible to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or State Supplementary Payments (SSP);
• Meet all of the eligibility criteria for SSI/SSP except for having an income level higher than the permissible limits; or
• Receive Medi-Cal and meet the SSI/SSP disability requirements.

The amount and type of services authorized are then based on the needs of each individual as determined by a social worker during a home visit.

Providers may be formal personal care attendants from an agency or independent providers -- including family members or friends who meet certain conditions.

For information on eligibility, contact the IHSS county office.