What is the Home Help Services Program? Home Help Services is a program of the Department of Human Services (DHS). It is designed to give support to individuals who are unable to care for themselves adequately at home. This program provides them the funds to hire helpers to assist with daily activities. This allows people to live in their own homes rather than live in nursing homes, adult foster care homes, or homes for the aged. What Services Are Included? If you are unable to perform some of your daily living activities or have these tasks provided for you at no expense, we may be able to help you with: • Eating or feeding • Using the toilet • Bathing • Grooming • Dressing • Transferring from one position to another • Moving around the home • Taking medicine • Preparing meals and cleaning up • Shopping for essential items • Doing laundry • Doing basic housework
| Who is Eligible? To receive Home Help Services, a person must be (1) eligible for Medicaid, and (2) need physical help to perform these activities. A doctor's statement that personal care is needed must be obtained before payment for services can begin. People with (1) high medical bills or extensive home help needs and (2) income that exceeds Medicaid standards, can still become eligible for Medicaid and this service. Ask a DHS worker about the "spend down" and "personal care option". Who Provides the Services? Home Help Consumers employ thier own providers. Providers are not employed by DHS or the State of Michigan. Providers may be friends, relatives, neighbors, or employees of home help agencies. A Consumer's spouse, or a parent caring for a child under 18, cannot be paid by DHS. Some DHS offices keep lists of people willing to perform these services. How Much Are Providers Paid? The DHS worker, with the Consumer and Provider, will decide how much help the Consumer needs every month. This is based on the Consumer's physical and mental condition and home situation. The worker may then use a reasonable time schedule to see how many hours can be allowed for each needed service. |
