Becoming a Caregiver: What Is CDPAP?

Did you know that adults aged 45-64 are the most likely to be caregivers?

Regardless of age, becoming a caregiver can be a very rewarding experience, especially if it’s for a loved one.

If you’re searching for a caregiver or interested in becoming one yourself, you may have heard of CDPAP. But what exactly is CDPAP?

We’re here to fill you in. Keep reading below for a briefing on CDPAP and how it could benefit you!

 

Understanding the CDPAP Basics

The Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) is a program that allows elderly, chronically ill, and disabled individuals more control over when it comes to in-home care. They are known as “consumers”, as they’re not truly patients or clients.

Only residents of New York state are eligible for CDPAP. It’s a Medicaid program, so the person receiving care must be eligible for Medicaid.

CPAP gives individuals more freedom to choose who provides their care. They can choose to have a friend or relative as their caretaker instead of a practicing nurse, for example. This can come as a great relief to individuals who are uncomfortable with the idea of a stranger taking care of them.

 

Choosing a Caregiver

Becoming a caregiver can be an enriching way to connect with the consumer. That’s what makes CDPAP an appealing option for so many people—friends and family get the chance to improve a loved one’s quality of life by becoming their caretaker.

The caregiver will be taught, either by the consumer or the designated representative, how to complete the daily tasks. The consumer is responsible for selecting, training, and (potentially) terminating their caregiver.

Caregivers are compensated for their work, which can also alleviate much of the stress of selecting a friend or family member.

However, it’s not necessary for a relative or friend to become a caregiver. There are plenty of CDPAP recommendations for finding a service that matches a caregiver with a consumer.

Currently, the only non-negotiable rule for choosing a caregiver is that it cannot be the consumer’s spouse. This is because a spouse is already legally responsible for the other.

 

Qualifying for CDPAP

In order to qualify for CDPAP, you must be a New York resident eligible for Medicaid, as stated above. You also must require assistance for at least 180 days.

You will need a physician to sign off saying that you truly do require an in-home caretaker. Depending on your personal situation, you may have to complete additional assessments during your application process. You will also need to confirm that you are unable to complete household tasks, such as cooking and cleaning.

You will also need to be ready to name a designated representative. The designated representative will make informed decisions about the caregiving process should the individual receiving care become unable to make decisions on their own.

 

The Journey to Becoming a Caregiver

Becoming a caregiver can be a daunting process, but it’s worth considering if you want to assist a loved one. Or, if you yourself are in need of care, CDPAP can help you feel more in control of the caregiving process. The guide above will help you as you begin to learn more about CDPAP.

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