This section establishes the guidelines and requirements for Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) that provide or contract for provision of non-Medicaid-Home and Community Based Services for family and informal caregivers of older individuals, at-risk adults, and persons with disabilities. These requirements apply to services funded wholly or partially by funds received through the Department of Human Services Division of Aging Services (DAS) and are suggested for use by agencies providing caregiver services on a fee-for-service basis. AAAs can provide information to family caregivers about available community services and assist in gaining access to those services to enhance decision-making, reduce burden, and improve the health and wellness of those providing care to older adults and persons with disabilities. Supportive programs and services for caregivers can strengthen care partnerships and help care receivers to remain in their communities for as long and as safely as possible. AAAs may choose from a variety of caregiver targeted programs and services, including but not limited to adult day care, respite services, material aid, assistive technology, community and public education, case management, and kinship care. Many of these caregiver services have their own standards and policy requirements as outlined in applicable sections of the DHS Online Directives Information System Manual 5300, “Home and Community Based Services”. This section establishes overall standards for caregiver services, including evidence-based and evidence-informed programs aimed at caregivers. DAS strongly encourages AAAs to provide educational resources for caregivers through community and public events; webinars and other media; and caregiver-oriented support groups as discussed in these standards. To be eligible for caregiver services, the caregiver must be providing periodic or ongoing care for a care receiver. The service or services delivered must provide support to and address the needs of the client in their role as a family or informal caregiver.
