How to apply for Kentucky Homecare Program

Who it's for

The Kentucky Homecare Program provides in-home services that help frail seniors stay in their own homes instead of moving to a nursing facility. It is for Kentuckians 60 and older who cannot safely perform everyday activities on their own, or who are at risk of being placed in an institution. Services can include case management, personal care, home-delivered meals, homemaker and chore help, home repair, respite for family caregivers, and home health aide visits. It is a state-funded program, separate from Medicaid. People who can get the same help through Medicaid are sent to Medicaid first. Some people pay a fee on a sliding scale based on income, while people with the lowest incomes pay no fee; voluntary donations are welcome but never required, and services are not cut for not giving. Because state funding is limited, the local Area Agency on Aging assesses each applicant's functional need and may maintain a waiting list.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 60+ (driver's license, state ID, or birth certificate)
• Proof of Kentucky residency
• A functional needs assessment by the local Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living (done by phone or during an in-home intake visit)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Kentucky Homecare Program. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 60+ (driver's license, state ID, or birth certificate), proof of Kentucky residency, a functional needs assessment by the local Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living (done by phone or during an in-home intake visit) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather proof of age, such as a driver's license, state ID, or birth certificate.
2. Gather proof that you live in Kentucky.
3. Apply online or call 1-800-677-1116 to start your application.
4. Complete the functional needs assessment with your local Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living. This is done by phone or during an in-home intake visit.
5. Be ready to show that you cannot do at least two activities of daily living or three instrumental activities of daily living on your own, or that you are at risk of institutional placement.
6. If asked, review any cost-sharing information. Some people pay a sliding-scale fee based on income, while people with the lowest incomes pay no fee.

What to expect: After you apply, the local Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living reviews your information and completes the functional assessment to decide if you qualify for services. If you can get the same help through Medicaid, you may be sent to Medicaid first. Because state funding is limited, you may be placed on a waiting list. If approved, services continue with periodic functional reassessments for renewal.

Renewals

ongoing (periodic functional reassessment by the Area Agency on Aging)