Paying for In-Home Care in Colorado

One of the most common questions families have about in-home care is how to pay for it. The good news is that there are multiple options available to Colorado residents, from government programs to private insurance and personal savings.

Understanding In-Home Care Costs

Before exploring payment options, it helps to understand what in-home care typically costs in the Denver metro and Douglas County area:

• Hourly rates: $25-35 per hour for most non-medical care services
• Part-time care (20 hours/week): Approximately $2,000-3,000 per month
• Full-time care (40+ hours/week): $4,000-6,000+ per month
• Live-in care: $250-350 per day

Costs vary based on the level of care needed, caregiver experience, and specific services required.

Medicare Coverage

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older. However, Medicare has limited coverage for in-home care:

• What Medicare covers: Skilled nursing care, physical therapy, and other medical services provided at home, but only when medically necessary and ordered by a doctor
• What Medicare doesn't cover: Personal care assistance, companionship, housekeeping, meal preparation, and other non-medical services that make up most in-home care

If your loved one needs help with daily activities rather than skilled medical care, Medicare typically won't cover those services.

Medicaid in Colorado

Colorado Medicaid offers several programs that can help pay for in-home care for those who qualify financially:

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers

Colorado offers several HCBS waivers that cover in-home care services:

• Elderly, Blind, and Disabled (EBD) Waiver: For adults 18+ who need nursing facility level of care but prefer to remain at home
• Community Mental Health Supports (CMHS) Waiver: For those with serious mental illness
• Brain Injury (BI) Waiver: For individuals with traumatic brain injuries

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Medicaid-funded in-home care in Colorado, individuals typically must:

• Meet income limits (varies by program)
• Have limited assets (generally under $2,000 for individuals)
• Require a nursing facility level of care
• Be able to safely remain at home with services

Contact Colorado Medicaid or a local Area Agency on Aging for specific eligibility information.

Long-Term Care Insurance

If your loved one purchased a long-term care insurance policy years ago, it may cover in-home care services. Key things to know:

• Policies vary widely in what they cover
• Most have an elimination period (waiting period) before benefits begin
• Daily or monthly benefit limits apply
• Some policies require care from licensed agencies

Review the policy carefully or contact the insurance company to understand exactly what's covered and how to file a claim.

Veterans Benefits

Veterans and their surviving spouses may qualify for benefits that help pay for in-home care:

• Aid and Attendance: A pension benefit for veterans who need help with daily activities
• Housebound benefit: For veterans substantially confined to their home
• VA Home Health Care: Medical services provided at home through the VA

Contact the VA or a veterans service organization to learn about eligibility and how to apply.

Private Pay Options

Many families pay for in-home care using personal resources:

• Personal savings: Using retirement accounts, savings, or other assets
• Family contributions: Multiple family members sharing costs
• Home equity: Reverse mortgages or home equity loans
• Life insurance: Some policies allow early access to benefits for care needs
• Annuities: Converting assets to income for care expenses

Tips for Managing Costs

• Start with what you need: Begin with part-time care and increase as needed
• Combine resources: Family members can provide some care while professionals fill gaps
• Explore community resources: Local senior centers, meal delivery programs, and volunteer services can supplement paid care
• Plan ahead: Early planning provides more options and time to explore all resources