Community Care Program
or Home Services (HSP)

The Community Care Program (CCP) helps older adults remain at home instead of moving into a nursing home. It supports activities of daily living such as personal care, cleaning, and meal assistance. Most CCP pathways run through the Illinois Department on Aging (IDOA) and local Care Coordination Units, with Medicaid funding coordination through the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS).

The Home Services Program, also called the Persons with Disabilities (PD) Waiver, helps Illinois adults under 60 receive care at home. It pays family and friend caregivers for personal care and daily support, so your loved one can live safely at home. Your caregiver does not need to live in the same home or apartment as the person receiving care. Paid.care helps you qualify, get trained, and get paid weekly, often at the same rates as Community Care Program caregivers.

For CCP, an adult is typically 60 or older, a resident of Illinois, and needs help with basic daily tasks. They must also meet financial requirements and be at risk of needing nursing home placement. For adults under 60 who need care, Home Services / PD Waiver pathways may apply instead — with the same competitive family-caregiver pay rates through Paid.care. Spouses can be paid family caregivers in Illinois (as of 2026).

Covered services may include in-home care, help with activities of daily living, home delivered meals, emergency call systems, and respite care. These services are designed to support safety, independence, and overall health in the home setting.

Yes. While the Community Care Program does not replace Medicare or private insurance, it does offer care planning, help with medication reminders, and support for basic health needs. It also pays for Adult Day Programs (respite for the primary caregiver), medication dispensers, and more. This helps seniors manage their day-to-day wellness and reduce unnecessary hospital or nursing home visits.

There is no direct fee to apply or enroll. Services are funded through state and federal sources. However, participants may be asked to contribute a cost-share depending on their income and other resources. A care coordinator will explain any possible charges in advance.

By supporting older adults at home, the program helps preserve routine, independence, and dignity. Services like respite care, home delivered meals, and personal assistance improve safety and daily comfort, directly boosting quality of life.

Absolutely! Family members are eligible to become paid caregivers through the program. They can assist with personal care, cooking, mobility, and other essential tasks. Paid.Care helps families apply, complete necessary documentation, and get paid for the care they already provide. Spouses can be paid caregivers as of March 2026 in Illinois!

Start with your local Care Coordination Unit (through the Illinois Department on Aging) or ask Paid.care to guide the process. You will complete an assessment and share details about health, insurance, Medicare status, and care needs. Paid.care can walk you through each step and can even call the CCU on your behalf.