Program Description
Oklahoma’s In Home Assistance is less a formal program and more a collection of services that are provided at no cost to elderly, needy state residents. Actual services may vary by locality, but generally include supports that are intended to help an elderly individual remain living in their home. These services may include personal care, assistance with house and yard work, and minor home repairs.
By assisting seniors in remaining in their homes, the state prevents the unnecessary placement of individuals in more expensive, Medicaid funded nursing homes.
These services are administered by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services’ Aging Services Division (ASD) and provided locally by a network of 11 Area Agencies on Aging (AAA). These services are funded via the Older Americans Act (OAA).
Did You Know? Oklahoma seniors are eligible for free estimates for bathroom modifications, which help them to remain safely in their homes.
Eligibility Guidelines
Eligibility for services depends on which Area Agency on Aging is providing the services and on the availability of funding in any given year. That said, there are certain requirements in common in all areas of the state. Applicants must be at least 60 years of age and be legal Oklahoma residents. For most services, an applicant must also demonstrate a need for assistance. For example, he or she may be unable to prepare meals, manage medication, or do housecleaning.
The applicants’ income and assets are not a factor in determining eligibility. Via the Older Americans Act, the services mentioned below are free of charge for all adults 60 years of age and older, regardless of financial means. In addition, there is no income or asset limits for a caregiver seeking respite services for caring for an adult who is at least 60 years of age. However, priority is generally given to those individuals who have the greatest need, and program participants might be asked to contribute to their cost of care. Program candidates are encouraged to contact their local Area Agency on Aging regardless of their income.
Benefits and Services
Services vary based on the availability of funding and with geographic location. However, in general terms the following supports are offered.
- Personal / Attendant care (assistance with the activities of daily living, such as eating, bathing, toiletry, and mobility)
- Chore assistance (assistance with errands essential to helping the individual remain living at home)
- Laundry and housekeeping
- Light yard work and home maintenance
- Caregiver assistance (may include in-home respite, training, support groups, and counseling)
- Meal delivery / Congregate meals
- Transportation (may include rides to the bank, doctor’s appointments, and to buy groceries)
How to Apply / Learn More
To apply for In Home Assistance Services, individuals should contact their local Area Agency on Aging.
There are other free or low cost assistance services available to help elderly Oklahomans remain living at home. Read about the Adult Day Care programs.
