Quick answer
Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS) pay for care at home or in the community for people who meet Medicaid's financial rules and need a nursing home level of care. In Kansas, the KanCare Frail Elderly waiver (65+) can cover personal care, adult day care, medication reminders, emergency response and home modifications; start with the ADRC at 1-855-200-2372. In Missouri, the Aged and Disabled waiver covers homemaker, chore, respite, adult day care and home-delivered meals; call 1-866-835-3505. PACE is another Medicaid option in some areas.
Kansas and Missouri at a glance
| Kansas: Frail Elderly waiver | Missouri: Aged and Disabled waiver | |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 65 and older | 65 and older, or 63 to 64 with a physical disability |
| Level of care | Meets the Medicaid nursing facility threshold | Would otherwise need nursing facility care |
| Example services | Personal care, adult day care, medication reminders, emergency response, home modifications | Homemaker, chore, respite, adult day care, home-delivered meals |
| Family as paid caregiver | Family other than a spouse or legal representative can provide attendant care | See the Structured Family Caregiver waiver for dementia |
| Where to start | ADRC, 1-855-200-2372 | DHSS HCBS line, 1-866-835-3505 |
Sources: KDADS and Missouri DSS HCBS Waiver Finder.
How to apply
- Call the state's starting point above.
- Your parent gets a functional assessment for level of care.
- Apply for Medicaid financial eligibility if not already covered.
- Once approved, a care plan sets up services.
Things to know
- Ask about any waiting list and how many hours of services may be approved.
- Waivers generally don't pay rent or food in assisted living.
- Each state sets its own financial rules; ask the state agency.
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Questions families ask
Does Medicaid pay for home care?
Yes, through HCBS waivers for people who qualify medically and financially.
How do I apply for Medicaid home care in Kansas?
Start with the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 1-855-200-2372.
How do I apply in Missouri?
Call the DHSS HCBS line at 1-866-835-3505 or use the online referral form.
Can a family member be paid?
In Kansas, through the Frail Elderly waiver's attendant care, with some limits. In Missouri, through the Structured Family Caregiver waiver for dementia.