This non-Medicaid program offers those 60 years or older the opportunity to receive care services and support in their homes or primary places of residence. Certain family members can be paid to provide caregiving services.
The Kansas Senior Care Act (SCA) is a program designed to support care recipients who want to age at home. Services alleviate your caregiving burden while providing your loved one with the necessary assistance. How can the SCA benefit your loved one, and how do you apply for help?
What is the Kansas Senior Care Act?
The SCA is a program funded by the state of Kansas to help seniors live safely and comfortably at home. Unlike Medicaid, the SCA doesn't have strict income limits. This program provides non-medical care and support so your loved one can maintain their daily routine and stay connected to their community.
Goals of the Kansas Senior Care Act
The SCA has two main goals:
- Keep seniors out of nursing homes: Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are costly. The SCA helps prevent sending aging Kansas seniors to nursing homes. Instead, they can live independently at home in their community.
- Promote independence: The SCA provides the support your loved one needs to manage their daily activities.
Services offered under the Kansas Senior Care Act
The SCA offers specific services tailored to individual needs, including:
- Helping hands: Assistance with hygiene and mobility.
- Housework and errands: Laundry, grocery shopping, and preparing meals.
- Companionship: Social interaction and emotional support.
- Respite care: Gives you a break from caregiving duties, allowing you to recharge and avoid burnout.
- Transportation: Help getting to doctor's appointments and other outings.
- Case management: A case manager can help you navigate the program, develop a care plan, and connect you with other resources.
Eligibility for the Kansas Senior Care Act
To qualify for the SCA, your loved one must meet a few requirements:
- Age: Care recipients must be 60 years old or older.
- Residency: They must be legal residents of Kansas.
- Functional needs: Your loved one must need help with at least two everyday activities, such as hygiene, bathing, dressing, or eating, and three "instrumental activities," like housework, managing finances, or taking medications.
- Financial eligibility: There are no strict income limits but a sliding fee scale. The service cost is based on your loved one's income and assets. Those with lower incomes pay less or even nothing, while higher earners pay a more significant fee.
Can family caregivers get paid through the Kansas Senior Care Act?
The SCA allows for "self-direction," meaning the care recipient chooses their caregiver. This could be a professional caregiver or a family member, like an adult child or sibling. Your loved one can pay you for your caregiving services. However, spouses are generally not eligible to be paid caregivers.
How to apply for the Kansas Senior Care Act
The application process is straightforward:
- Contact your local Kansas Area Agency on Aging (AAA): There are 11 AAAs across Kansas, each managing the program in their region. You can find your local AAA's contact information online or by calling 855-200-2372.
- Schedule an assessment: A representative from the AAA will talk with you and your care recipient to determine eligibility.
- Develop a care plan: If your loved one qualifies, you'll work with the AAA to create a custom caregiving plan.
- Choose a caregiver (if self-directing): The Kansas Senior Care Act offers flexibility. If your loved one chooses self-direction, they can select a family member or hire a professional caregiver. Family caregivers must pass a security check.
- Start receiving services: Once the plan is approved and a caregiver is chosen, the care recipient begins receiving services.
What documents are needed?
To start the application process, you need the required documents, including proof of age, residency, income, assets, and a doctor's note. Having all the necessary documentation will help avoid delays or complications.
Where do I submit documents?
Submit your application and documents at your local AAA office. They will assist you with the process and confirm that all necessary documents are properly submitted.
A note from Givers
The Kansas Senior Care Act is a valuable resource for Kansas families. With financial assistance for in-home care, your care recipient can maintain independence and quality of life. If you're a tired family caregiver looking for a long-term solution to the many challenges of caregiving, the SCA might be the answer you've been searching for.
Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more and see if this program is suitable for your family. Don't wait—take advantage of this lifesaving solution today.
