Looking for help, but not ready to make the transition to nursing home life just yet? If you qualify for senior MassHealth benefits and you’re interested in alternatives to nursing home care, various personal care options are available.  Assisting MassHealth members with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), the MassHealth Personal Care Attendant (PCA) Program is one designed for those who are seeking help at home without relying on the services provided by assisted living facilities or nursing homes.  ADLs, such as dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, and various mobility needs and transfers can all be made easier through the assistance of a Personal Care Attendant provided through MassHealth’s PCA program.  PCAs can also help senior MassHealth members with Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), such as shopping, housekeeping, doing laundry and meal preparation.

Interested in finding out if you’re eligible for MassHealth’s PCA Program?  Here are MassHealth’s PCA requirements for eligibility:

-You must be eligible for MassHealth Standard or CommonHealth

-You have a permanent or chronic disability preventing you from performing daily activities without physical assistance from someone

-You require physical assistance with two or more daily activities

-You have a prescription from your doctor for PCA services

-You obtain prior authorization for PCA services from MassHealth, its designee (Community Case Management, or CCM) or the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MC

When it comes to legal logistics, nursing home plans and assisted living programs, such as MassHealth’s PCA Program, all fall under the jurisdiction of elder law.  The Law Offices of Michael T. Baker can help when it comes to planning for and financing PCA care.  Contact us today if you have questions regarding MassHealth PCA and other programs that’ll help you or your loved ones make it through the day at home, as our firm may be able to assist you with becoming eligible for Standard MassHealth.