Companion/Homemaker Services

Companionship/Homemaker through ODP is a non‑medical support service designed to reduce isolation and enhance safety, tailored for individuals who live independently or with someone unable/unavailable to provide care.

🌟 Primary Goals
• Social engagement & emotional support: engaging in activities (e.g., conversation, reading, games, arts, or community outings—to promote well‑being and foster inclusion).
• Supervision for safety: companions monitor the individual, stay aware of their whereabouts, and intervene if necessary to prevent harm.
• Supportive tasks, as needed: while therapeutic and socialization are the focus, companions may also assist with simple, incidental tasks related to the activity (e.g., light cleanup after a craft).

✅ Key Features

Person‑Centered Activities align with goals in the person‑centered plan (e.g., reducing loneliness, improving social skills)
Non‑medical, non‑hands‑on care, no personal care, nursing, or medication.
Flexible settings can occur at home or in the wider community—parks, libraries, outings, etc.
Eligibility Requirements Participants must be on an HCBS waiver, 18+, and live alone or with someone not able/obligated to provide support.
Billing limits typically capped and cannot be billed alongside other residential/day services.

🧠 Why It’s Important
• Alleviates loneliness: meaningful interactions help reduce social isolation and contribute to mental health.
• Supports community living helps individuals safely engage with their environment under gentle supervision.
• Promotes personal goals: partners with person‑centered planning to build confidence, social skills, and autonomy.

💡 Everyday Companion Activities
• Friendly conversation or shared hobbies (reading, art projects).
• Accompanying to errands, parks, or community events.
• Playing games, organizing small tasks, or light cleanup tied to activities.
• Providing support during personal routines (meditation, music listening).
• Ensuring safety during sleep or downtime without imposing personal care.

🛠 How It Works

Eligibility & Waiver Enrollment: IHCS is provided under ODP’s 1915(c) waivers (e.g., Consolidated, Community Living, and Person/Family Directed Support). These waiver options allow Medicaid funds to be used for services at home and in the community.
Person-Centered Planning: Supports are defined in an Individual Support Plan (ISP), developed annually through a team process that identifies personal goals, skills need, and desired community outcomes.
Flexible Implementation: Supports Brokers, Supports Coordinators, and providers work together to hire, train, and match staff based on the individual's preferences and everyday routines.