Program Description
The In-Home Aide Services (IHAS) program provides disabled and elderly Maryland residents with home aides to assist them with their Activities and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living. Home aides can help with personal care, such as dressing, bathing, and eating; and chores, such as cooking, laundry, cleaning, driving, and shopping.
Using the program services, seniors at risk for nursing home placement may be able to continue safely living in their homes or the community. This helps them avoid being unnecessarily or prematurely placed in a skilled nursing facility.
Eligibility Guidelines
The In-Home Aide Services program is open to all Maryland residents age 18 or older who have a functional disability that results in them requiring assistance to remain living in their homes. It does not have fixed financial eligibility requirements. However, an applicant who is enrolled in a Maryland Medicaid program, such as the Medicaid Waiver for Older Adults, must get support services via the Medicaid program, rather than IHAS.
The applicant’s financial position is considered when determining the cost of services and level of prioritization for services. Typically, individuals are charged a reduced rate based on a sliding scale as determined by their income and household size. Individuals are scored according to need; and funding is prioritized. Therefore, meeting eligibility requirements does not guarantee service. However, persons who are at risk of being placed in a nursing home facility, at risk of being neglected or abused, or do not currently have a caregiver, are given priority for services.
Benefits and Services
The number of hours of home aide assistance participants of IHAS can receive a week is based on one’s level of need. The specific number of hours is discussed and determined with one’s caseworker. Aides can help with personal care (i.e. dressing, bathing, grooming, transferring, and eating) and common chores (i.e. cooking, laundry, cleaning, transportation, and grocery shopping). Case management and self-care training is also provided.
How to Apply / Learn More
In-Home Aide Services are managed by each county’s department of social services. To apply for services, one should contact their county office. Contact information is available here.
While open to residents statewide, funding for this program is capped. Therefore, waiting lists for services may exist. Enrollment is based on priority, rather than the order in which applications are received. For more information about this program, click here.
Maryland seniors can also receive assistance to remain living at home from:
Assistance in adult day care is offered through the Medical Day Care program.
