Domiciliary Care (Dom Care) offers a supportive, family-like living arrangement for adults aged 18 and over who need daily assistance but not the intensive care of a nursing facility. This program provides a comfortable bedroom and essential services tailored to individual needs, including meals, help with personal care and daily tasks, medication management, and transport to medical appointments. If you are considering applying for a care program for yourself or a loved one, understanding Dom Care is a crucial first step.
Understanding the Dom Care Program
Dom Care operates within private residences, where certified Dom Care providers, approved by the local Area Agency on Aging (AAA), offer care to a maximum of three eligible individuals. These providers receive a monthly stipend for opening their homes and delivering essential Dom Care services. This model fosters a more personal and home-like environment compared to larger institutions. The program is designed to bridge the gap for those who can no longer live independently but thrive in a less clinical setting.
Eligibility Requirements for Dom Care
To be eligible for the Dom Care program as a resident, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Pennsylvania resident, aged 18 or older.
- Be independently mobile or semi-mobile.
- Not require skilled or intermediate nursing care, or 24-hour hospital care.
- Lack willing or able support for independent living.
- Be unable to live alone safely within the community.
For those interested in becoming Dom Care providers, the requirements include:
- Being a Pennsylvania resident, aged 21 or older.
- Residing in the Dom Care home.
- Having a clean criminal record, particularly no convictions for assault or moral turpitude.
- Possessing the experience, capacity, and physical ability to support individuals facing physical, behavioral, or age-related challenges.
- Willingness to collaborate with the local AAA and Dom Care residents.
How to Apply for the Dom Care Program
Applying for the Dom Care program involves connecting with your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). The AAA oversees the Dom Care program, managing certifications, eligibility assessments, and the matching process between residents and providers. To start your application for the care program:
- Contact your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) in Pennsylvania. They will provide detailed information about the Dom Care program and the application process.
- Discuss your or your loved one’s needs and circumstances. The AAA will assess eligibility based on the criteria outlined above.
- If eligible, the AAA will guide you through the next steps, which include matching you with a certified Dom Care provider in your area.
The Dom Care program, administered by AAAs, ensures ongoing care management for residents and support for providers, maintaining adherence to Pennsylvania regulations (Pennsylvania Code, Title 6, Chapter 21. Domiciliary Care Services for Adults). By reaching out to your local AAA, you can begin the process to apply for the Dom Care program and access this valuable support system.
