Pennsylvania Supports Deed Holders Who Offer Domiciliary Care for Seniors

In participating Pennsylvania counties, the Domiciliary Care Program provides safe, comfortable home living for seniors, or adults of any age from 18 up, who need help with daily living.

Are you a Pennsylvania homeowner aged 21+? Would you share your home and provide daily support to someone who needs you? If so, you might qualify for a monthly stipend for stepping up.

What You Need; How to Plan

The resident you’re assisting (or residents—there can be up to three) will need the basics, starting with a furnished bedroom. You’ll need a kitchen, and an appropriate space to provide assistance with personal care. You’ll provide three healthy meals a day, personal care, and laundering. You’ll need to be able and willing to help with medicines. But you won’t be alone in understanding this set-up.

Your county has a Human Services department. Within that is an Area Agency on Aging (AAA). Your local AAA certifies your home as workable for the purpose. The AAA care manager will link you to an adult who needs your assistance, and will set up a care plan with you. This advisor will visit your home. There will be a try-out period for you and your new resident to make sure it feels right for you both.

Dom Care: Frequently Asked Questions

This plan lets adults who need support safely live in a home, as an alternative to institutional nursing care. It’s about offering a spare room—but it’s more. You’re providing companionship and the comforts of home.

Here are some common questions a homeowner might have about offering domiciliary care.

Q. What kind of special needs will my resident have?

A. The resident might have a physical or mental health diagnosis, or be facing the challenges of getting older. This is someone who’s not able to live alone, but doesn’t need institutional care.

Q. Will my home qualify? Will I qualify personally?

A. An inspector will check your home’s fire, health, and safety condition every year. You’ll need to allow a criminal history background check, and you’ll be asked for personal references. You’ll also agree to a physical exam.

Q. Would I need medical training?

A. You’ll need to become certified to give first aid and CPR. You may need to give your resident(s) medicines, and drive the resident to obtain professional care when needed. You’ll become a certified home provider during the initial process. Later, you’ll receive ongoing training as a provider.

Q. Do I need to set up a guardianship for the resident?

A. No. In fact, many “dom care” residents have a degree of independence. Participants are encouraged to have full lives. Some work, volunteer, or attend local activities. But they still need help at home. Housekeeping, budgeting, or doing other tasks alone might not be possible.

Q. Can I work, but still be a provider?

A. Yes. In any case, you must show that you have a stable financial situation to be eligible for the program. And you must live in the home. People are matched to households that fit their needs best.

Q. What payments would I receive?

A. The Pennsylvania Department of Aging sets a standard payment rate, up to $1,014 monthly, paid to you directly out of the resident’s SSI and State Supplement funding. The stipend won’t be taxed. It’s designed to defray the cost of your presence to assist, house, and provide meals for the resident. There is a contract documenting the agreement between you and the resident.

These relationships can last many years. While the program is not meant as long-term nursing care, some residents participate for decades.  

Housing Alternatives for Older Adults

A deed represents dependable shelter and autonomy—for you and your household. Pennsylvania’s dom care program is one example of expanding a household, for homeowners willing to share their own security and well-being with others. With retirement housing becoming limited, it’s also a way to bring appealing options to older adults.

Interested? Review the application process for Pennsylvania’s Domiciliary Care (Dom Care) Program.