In-Home Supportive Services
The In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program provides in-home assistance to people who are blind, live with a disability, or are 65 and older.
IHSS is an alternative to nursing homes, board and care facilities and other out-of-home care. You can stay in your own home and receive supportive services from a caregiver (provider).
IHSS does not offer help for housing. If you need help with housing, contact the Housing Authority of Santa Clara.
IHSS program at-a-glance
| program summary |
|---|
| IHSS providers help individuals with household and personal care services. |
| The services are free to county residents who are fully eligible for the program. |
| Providers are considered employees of the recipient. A Provider can be a family member, a friend or anyone who has completed the enrollment process through the Public Authority. |
| Eligibility criteria to receive care |
|---|
| You are blind, live with a disability or are 65 years of age or older. |
| You must live at home in Santa Clara County. |
| You must have Medi-Cal. Apply for Medi-Cal. |
Our range of services
Some services (tasks) we CAN help you with:
- Light household chores (domestic services)
- Meal preparation and clean-up
- Bowel and bladder care
- Ambulation
- Routine laundry
- Dressing
- Shopping for food
- Bathing and hygiene
Some services (tasks) we CANNOT help you with:
- Paying bills
- Moving furniture
- Reading mail/documents to you
- Watching TV
- Fixing things in your home
- Outside entertainment
- Caring for your pets or service animals
- Providing care when you are hospitalized
