For many families in South Dakota, caring for an elderly loved one or someone with a disability becomes a top priority. While this desire to keep loved ones at home is strong, the logistics and financial burden can be overwhelming. This is where Dakota at Home, a valuable resource center, steps in to guide families through the home care maze.

One program offered through Dakota at Home is Structured Family Care (SFC). Let's explore how SFC works within the framework of Dakota at Home, Medicaid, and the overall Structured Family Care Program.

Understanding Dakota at Home

Dakota at Home is South Dakota's designated Aging and Disability Resource Center. This free service acts as a central hub for information, referrals, and assistance for individuals of all ages and abilities. Their website can connect you with trained staff who can:

• Provide unbiased information on various home and community-based care options.

• Help navigate eligibility for public and private programs, including Medicaid.

• Connect you with local service providers based on your specific needs.

What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage for low-income individuals and families. In South Dakota, Medicaid covers a wide range of services, including some in-home care options. Dakota at Home can help determine if you qualify for Medicaid and, if so, which services might be covered under your specific plan.

Structured Family Care: Dakota at Home

Structured Family Care (SFC) is a Medicaid waiver program specifically designed to help people with disabilities live safely and independently in their homes. It provides financial support to family members who act as paid caregivers for a loved one.

Dakota at Home aids over 400,000 South Dakota caregivers with support, training, and and payment to deliver high-quality in-home care.

Dakota at Home Perks:

• Highest Pay Rates: We are committed to paying the highest rates for caregiving services in the state! In South Dakota, we pay up to $3,000/mo. We also offer health care benefits and a $500 sign-on bonus for qualified Paid.care caregivers who join in 2024.

• Free Care Coaching: Never pay a penny to Paid.care — ever. Take control of your caregiving while getting qualified & trained by our team of care coaches. Plus, get free access additional online caregiver and personal care courses.

• 24/7 Support: We’re here with around-the-clock support (24/7 365 days a year) helping you or your loved one get qualified for Medicaid and the HOPE Waiver set up your profile, and guide you through the caregiver process — all while getting you paid the highest rates.

• Paid.care App: Check eligibility, chat with a care coach, build a personalized care plan, clock in & out for your care services while taking notes all inside of one mobile app to get you paid on time, every week.

Benefits of SFC

Choosing SFC offers several advantages for families:

• Financial Support: Family caregivers receive an hourly wage for providing care, which can help offset the financial burden of caring for a loved one.

• Flexibility: Each Individual Service Plan can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the care recipient and the family caregiver's schedule.

• Independence: Structured Family Care allows individuals with disabilities to remain in their homes and maintain a sense of control over their lives.

• Peace of Mind: Families gain peace of mind knowing their loved one is receiving quality care from a trusted source.

Eligibility for SFC

To be eligible for SFC, the care recipient must:

• Be a South Dakota resident.

• Be under age 65 (with some exceptions).

• Have a disability that requires assistance with daily living activities.

• Meet specific functional limitations.

• Be determined eligible for nursing home level of care, but choose to receive care at home.

Dakota at Home: Your Guide Through the Process

If you're considering SFC for your loved one, Dakota at Home is here to help! Our knowledgeable staff can:

• Explain the SFC program and answer your questions.

• Get you Qualified : Check eligibility requirements to see if you are an eligible paid caregiver.

• Provide Dedicated Support: Guided care coach throughout every step of the family caregiving process.

• Get you Paid: Our family & friend caregivers are paid weekly via the Paid Care App.

Contact Paid.care Today!

Call us at (312) 241-1839 to discuss Dakota at Home and how you can become a valued caregiver for your loved one.

Together, let's ensure our aging family members receive the care and support they deserve in the comfort of their own homes.