If you have an aging parent or loved one who wants to remain at home rather than move to a nursing facility, Connecticut has a program specifically designed to help — the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE). This state-funded program provides a wide range of home-based services to help seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life.
At The Cassagnol Agency, we help Connecticut families navigate this program every day. Here is everything you need to know.
What Is the CHCPE?
The Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) is a state-administered program that provides home and community-based services to elderly Connecticut residents who are at risk of nursing home placement. The goal is simple: keep seniors safely at home for as long as possible, with the right level of support.
The program is administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) and covers a broad range of services including:
- Personal care assistance (bathing, dressing, grooming)
- Homemaker services (light housekeeping, meal preparation)
- Companion services
- Adult day health programs
- Home-delivered meals
- Assistive technology and home modifications
- Skilled nursing visits
- Respite care for family caregivers
Who Qualifies for CHCPE?
To be eligible for the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
Age Requirement
The applicant must be 65 years of age or older. There is no upper age limit.
Connecticut Residency
The applicant must be a legal resident of Connecticut and must reside in the community (not in a nursing facility or hospital) at the time of application.
Functional Need
The applicant must require assistance with at least one Activity of Daily Living (ADL) — such as bathing, dressing, eating, transferring (moving from bed to chair), toileting, or continence management — OR demonstrate significant cognitive impairment that requires supervision for safety.
Financial Eligibility
CHCPE has three funding tiers, each with different income and asset limits:
| Tier | Description | Income Limit (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Tier I | State-funded (no Medicaid required) | Up to $2,742/month (single) |
| Tier II | State-funded with modest cost-sharing | Moderate income range |
| Tier III | Medicaid-funded (HUSKY C) | Medicaid income limits apply |
Asset limits and exact income thresholds are updated annually. Our team can help you determine which tier applies to your family’s situation.
How to Apply for CHCPE
The application process involves several steps:
- Contact DSS: Call the Connecticut Department of Social Services at 1-800-445-5394 or apply online at ct.gov/dss
- Functional Assessment: A care manager will conduct an in-home assessment to evaluate the applicant’s functional needs and level of care required
- Financial Assessment: Income and asset documentation will be reviewed to determine eligibility tier
- Care Plan Development: If approved, a personalized care plan is created based on the individual’s needs
- Service Delivery: Approved services begin through contracted home care agencies like The Cassagnol Agency
How The Cassagnol Agency Can Help
Navigating the CHCPE application process can feel overwhelming — especially when you are already managing the emotional and logistical demands of caring for an aging parent. That is where we come in.
Our founder, Ernscie Cassagnol, is a Registered Nurse with over a decade of experience in Medicare, Medicaid, and home care navigation. We offer:
- Free eligibility pre-screening to determine if your loved one qualifies
- Application guidance to help you gather the right documents and avoid common mistakes
- RN-led assessments to document functional needs accurately
- Ongoing care coordination once services are approved
You do not have to navigate this alone. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help your family access the care and benefits you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose my own home care agency through CHCPE?
Yes. Once approved, you have the right to choose a qualified home care agency. The Cassagnol Agency is a licensed Connecticut home care provider and can serve as your CHCPE provider.
Does CHCPE pay family members to provide care?
In some cases, yes. Under certain CHCPE waiver programs, family members may be eligible to be paid as personal care attendants. Our team can help you explore this option. You can also read our article on how Connecticut families can get paid to care for an aging parent.
How long does the application process take?
The process typically takes 4–8 weeks from initial application to service approval, depending on the complexity of the case and documentation requirements.
What if my loved one is already in a nursing home?
If your loved one is in a nursing home but wants to return home, CHCPE may be able to support a safe transition back to community living. This is called a “nursing home diversion” or “transition” scenario, and our team has experience navigating this process.
The Cassagnol Agency is a Connecticut-licensed, RN-led home care and Medicaid navigation agency serving Milford, CT and surrounding communities. We are WOSB and MWBE certified. Contact us to learn how we can help your family.