Self-Directed In-Home Care

Self-Directed In-Home Care

Support at home can help people with disabilities and older adults live where they choose and stay involved in their communities. Self-directed care gives people more choice and control over who provides that support and how it fits into their daily lives.

 

What is self-direction?

Self-direction means taking the lead in managing personal assistance. The person receiving services helps choose their workers, directs their tasks, and sets a schedule that meets their needs within their approved service plan.

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Depending on the program, this may include recruiting, hiring, training, and supervising workers. Some programs allow qualified family members or friends to provide paid support.

 

Self-direction comes with responsibilities, but it does not mean doing everything alone. Support is available to help people understand the program and manage those responsibilities. Some people also receive help from an authorized representative.

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What are home and community-based services?

Home and community-based services, often called HCBS, help people meet daily needs while living in their own homes and communities. These services can make it possible to receive support without moving into a nursing facility or another institutional setting.

 

Depending on the program and a person’s approved needs, services may include:

• Help with bathing, dressing, eating, and using the bathroom.

• Assistance with moving around or transferring between a bed and wheelchair.

• Help preparing meals and completing household tasks.

• Support to take part in community life.

• Other services that support health, safety, and independence.

 

Self-direction is one way to receive some of these services. Available services, eligibility, and program rules vary.

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Why choose self-directed care?

People know their own routines, preferences, and needs. Self-direction gives them a stronger voice in decisions about their support.

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For one person, that may mean scheduling assistance around work. For another, it may mean choosing a worker they trust or teaching someone how to provide assistance in the way that works best for them.

 

The goal is support that respects the person’s choices and helps them live the life they want.

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Independence includes support

Living independently does not mean doing everything without help. It means having choices, making decisions, and directing one’s own life. Personal assistance can be an important part of that independence.

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Learn more

LINC can help explain self-directed in-home care, answer questions, and discuss next steps. Contact us to learn more about available options.

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