How to apply for Dignity at Home Fall Prevention Program

Who it's for

The Dignity at Home Fall Prevention Program helps older adults and people with disabilities avoid falls and stay safely in their own homes. Through local Area Agencies on Aging it provides in-home safety assessments, home modifications, fall-prevention education, and injury-prevention equipment. It is income-limited (adjusted household income at or below 80% of the area median income, which varies by county) and is for people who have fallen, are at risk of falling, or are at risk of being placed in a facility. Availability and the exact local provider vary by county.

What you'll need

• Proof of age (60+) or proof of disability
• Proof of household income
• Documentation of a fall history or fall risk (as requested by the local provider)

Where to apply

Step by step

1. Before applying, confirm three things with your local Area Agency on Aging: your adjusted household income is at or below 80% of the area median income for your county, you have fallen or are at risk of falling or of being placed in a facility, and the Dignity at Home Fall Prevention Program is offered in your county. Use the California Department of Aging 'Find Services in My County' locator to find your local Area Agency on Aging.
2. Gather your required documents: proof of age (showing you are 60 or older) or proof of disability, proof of household income, and any documentation of a fall history or fall risk that your local provider requests.
3. Apply online through the California Department of Aging's application channel for this program.
4. After submitting, respond promptly if your local Area Agency on Aging or service provider asks for additional documents or schedules a follow-up contact.

What to expect: After you apply, your local Area Agency on Aging or its service provider will review your information and may contact you to verify documents or schedule an in-home safety assessment. Processing times vary by county and provider, so ask your local Area Agency on Aging for an estimate when you confirm eligibility. If you are approved, services such as home modifications, fall-prevention education, and injury-prevention equipment are coordinated locally. Renewal requirements also vary by county and provider, so ask your provider how often your eligibility will need to be reviewed.

Renewals

varies by county and service provider