Many seniors and adults with disabilities in New Hampshire prefer to stay at home as they age or manage chronic conditions. With the right in-home care, safety supports, and emotional assistance, staying at home is linked to better physical health, improved mental well-being, and a higher quality of life.
Fortunately, New Hampshire offers several programs and community resources designed to help seniors and disabled adults stay safely at home rather than move into institutional care. These supports range from Medicaid-funded home care programs to community-based services and care coordination.
Below is an overview of the main options available and who they’re designed to support.
1. Who Can Benefit From New Hampshire Home Care Programs
Different programs apply depending on a person’s age, health needs, financial situation, and who is providing care. These are some of the most common situations:
- Older adults (65+) who need help with daily activities and want to remain at home
- Adults ages 18–64 with physical or mental disabilities that limit daily living
- Individuals who want to be cared for by a family member, friend, or neighbor
- Family caregivers who need support, compensation, or relief
- Individuals who need non-medical assistance, such as personal care, homemaking, or safety supervision
Understanding which category applies to your situation helps narrow down which programs may be relevant.
2. Top Home Care Programs and Resources in New Hampshire
2.1 Choices for Independence (CFI) Medicaid Waiver
CFI is one of New Hampshire’s primary Medicaid waiver programs for individuals who meet nursing-level care criteria but want to remain at home or in the community. CFI may help cover:
- Personal care and homemaking services
- Nurse check-ins (custodial nursing)
- Support for individuals with complex medical or functional needs
- Compensation for family or friend caregivers, if selected by the care recipient
CFI is commonly used by seniors and adults with disabilities who require ongoing assistance and want flexibility in choosing their caregiver.
2.2 Medicaid State Plan Home Care Services
For individuals who qualify for Medicaid but may not meet full waiver-level criteria, New Hampshire also offers Medicaid-covered home care services through the State Plan. These services may include:
- Personal care assistance
- Help with activities of daily living
- Limited in-home support based on assessed need
This option may work well for individuals who need help but not at the intensity required for a waiver program.
2.3 Medicaid Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS)
LTSS refers to a broader category of Medicaid-funded services that support individuals with long-term care needs, whether due to aging, disability, or chronic illness. LTSS can include:
- In-home care services
- Community-based supports
- Care coordination and assessments
Eligibility depends on both medical need and financial criteria.
2.4 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)
New Hampshire’s Area Agencies on Aging provide information, referrals, and access to community-based services for older adults and their families. They may assist with:
- Care planning and referrals
- Nutrition programs
- Caregiver support and education
- Connecting families to local resources
AAAs are often a helpful starting point for those seeking guidance but not yet enrolled in Medicaid programs.
3. How Home Care Agencies Support Seniors and Adults with Disabilities
While many of these programs are Medicaid-funded, navigating eligibility, paperwork, and coordination can be overwhelming. This is where experienced home care agencies play an important role.
Home care agencies that work with Medicaid programs can:
- Help families understand which programs may apply
- Coordinate with case managers and providers
- Handle caregiver onboarding and payroll
- Provide backup caregivers when family caregivers need support
4. How Guardian Home Care of NH Can Help
Guardian Home Care of NH supports seniors, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers across New Hampshire by helping them understand their options and access the care they need.
Whether you’re exploring New Hampshire Medicaid programs like the CFI Waiver, seeking safe in-home care, or looking to be paid as a family caregiver, Guardian Home Care of NH can guide you through next steps and simplify the process.
To learn more about which programs may apply to your situation, call us or request a callback and speak with a member of our team who can guide you based on your specific needs.
References & Resources:
- [1] NH Medicaid Home- and Community-Based Care (CFI) Overview: New Hampshire services helping eligible adults remain in the community rather than in institutional care.
- [2] NH Choices for Independence Program Guide and Application Resource: Central NH resource to apply for CFI and related supports.
- [3] AARP NH Caregiver Resource Guide: Caregiving resources for older adults and persons with disabilities across NH.
