For the Caregiver: Respite, Training, and Extra Services Through Medi-Cal Plans
What it is
Caring for a parent is real work, and there are programs for YOU.
- Family Caregiver Services (via your AAA): respite care — a trained substitute so you can rest or handle life — plus caregiver training. For caregivers 18+ looking after someone 60+, or someone with dementia of any age. Free/low-cost. Start: LA County I&A (800) 510-2020.
- Los Angeles Caregiver Resource Center (USC): counseling, support groups, care planning for LA caregivers — (800) 540-4442 (already in our directory).
- CalAIM Community Supports (through the parent's Medi-Cal plan): 15 extra services plans can arrange because they beat a hospital or nursing-home stay — including caregiver respite, home modifications like grab bars and ramps, medically tailored meals after a hospital stay, and help transitioning from a facility back home. Each plan chooses its list, so ask. Start: call the member services number on the Medi-Cal card and say "I'd like to ask about Community Supports."
- If the person you care for gets IHSS: remember the caregiver can be paid family — see IHSS.
How to start
Start with your Area Agency on Aging (800) 510-2020, or call the LA Caregiver Resource Center directly at (800) 540-4442.
Official sources
We describe programs; we don't make medical, legal, or insurance decisions for you. For Medicare choices, HICAP counselors advise you free: (800) 434-0222. For anything medical, talk with the doctor.