THE SHORT ANSWER

Most people want to stay home as long as it's safe. In New York, home care can be paid for by Medicaid (including CDPAP, which lets family members be paid caregivers), EISEP for people over 60 who don't qualify for Medicaid, long-term care insurance, VA benefits, and private funds. Medicare pays only for short-term skilled home health. Private-pay home care averages $35 per hour nationally.

Illustration of an older woman gardening at home with her adult daughter

Staying home is what most older adults want, and with the right help, many can do it safely for years. The challenge is paying for that help and knowing when it's no longer enough.

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The two big programs families miss

  • CDPAP lets an adult child or other relative (not a spouse) be paid through Medicaid to provide care. All caregiver payroll now runs through Public Partnerships LLC (PPL).
  • EISEP helps people 60 and older who don't qualify for Medicaid, through the county Office for Aging.

More To Explore

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More support. More life at home.

Explore Homeward by Cardinal for help coordinating everyday support and the next steps for aging at home.

Explore Homeward

Homeward is a separate paid service. Scope, availability, and pricing are confirmed before enrollment. It does not replace medical care. How Cardinal is paid.

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