Quick Answer: If your loved one needs assistance at home, you don’t have to wait for an ALTCS decision before arranging private-pay home care. Many Arizona families begin home care services while their ALTCS application is being reviewed so their loved one can receive help with daily activities, remain safe at home, and avoid unnecessary delays in care.
When a loved one begins needing help with everyday activities, time is often of the essence. Whether they’re returning home after a hospital stay, experiencing memory loss, living with Parkinson’s disease, or simply becoming less steady on their feet, waiting several weeks—or longer—for an ALTCS decision may not be practical.
Fortunately, there are options.
Many Arizona families choose private-pay home care while their ALTCS application is pending. This allows their loved one to receive compassionate, personalized care immediately while they continue exploring long-term payment options.
What Is ALTCS?
The Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) is Arizona’s Medicaid long-term care program for individuals who meet specific medical and financial eligibility requirements. For those who qualify, ALTCS may help cover long-term care services, including care provided in the home.
Applying for ALTCS typically involves submitting financial information, completing medical assessments, and undergoing an eligibility review. Because every situation is unique, the process may take time.
If your loved one needs assistance today, you may not want to delay care while waiting for an eligibility determination.
Do You Have to Wait for ALTCS Before Starting Home Care?
No.
Private-pay home care can often begin before an ALTCS application is approved. This gives families the opportunity to address immediate care needs instead of waiting for the application process to conclude.
This approach is common for families whose loved one:
- Has recently been discharged from the hospital
- Has Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia
- Is living with Parkinson’s disease
- Needs help with bathing, dressing, or mobility
- Is at increased risk of falls
- Relies heavily on a family caregiver who needs respite
Starting care early can provide reassurance for the entire family while helping your loved one remain comfortable and independent at home.
What Home Care Services Can Begin Right Away?
Private-pay home care can be customized based on each client’s needs and schedule. Depending on your loved one’s situation, services may include:
- Personal care and hygiene assistance
- Bathing and dressing
- Meal planning and preparation
- Medication reminders
- Light housekeeping
- Laundry and linen changes
- Companionship and conversation
- Transportation to appointments and errands
- Overnight care
- Respite care for family caregivers
- Around-the-clock care when needed
Because care plans are personalized, services can often be adjusted as needs change over time.
Why Families Choose Private-Pay Home Care While Waiting
Immediate Support
Rather than waiting for paperwork to be completed, your loved one can begin receiving help when it’s needed most.
Greater Flexibility
Private-pay care allows families to choose the schedule that works best for them, whether that’s a few hours each week, overnight care, or 24-hour assistance.
Reduced Family Stress
Family caregivers often balance careers, children, and other responsibilities. Professional caregiving support can ease that burden while allowing family members to focus on spending meaningful time together.
Aging in Place
Many older adults prefer to remain in familiar surroundings. Home care provides assistance while supporting independence and comfort at home.
What Happens If ALTCS Is Approved Later?
Every family’s circumstances are different.
If your loved one is approved for ALTCS, your ALTCS case manager can explain available services, coverage, and provider options. Beginning private-pay care while your application is pending does not prevent you from discussing those options after an eligibility determination has been made.
If you have questions about your ALTCS application or benefits, your ALTCS representative or case manager is the best source of guidance.
Is Private-Pay Home Care Right for Your Family?
Private-pay home care may be a good option if:
- Your loved one needs help immediately.
- You’re waiting for an ALTCS decision.
- You want flexible scheduling.
- You need temporary care after surgery or hospitalization.
- A family caregiver needs time to rest and recharge.
- Your goal is to help your loved one remain safely at home.
Every family’s situation is unique. Speaking with an experienced home care agency can help you understand your options and develop a care plan that fits your loved one’s needs.
Get the Support You Need Today
When a loved one needs help, waiting isn’t always the best option. At Sunland Home Care, we provide compassionate, personalized in-home care throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area with flexible scheduling and customized care plans designed around each client’s needs. Whether you need companion care, personal care, respite care, overnight assistance, or 24-hour support, our experienced caregivers are here to help.
Contact Sunland Home Care today to schedule a complimentary in-home assessment and learn how we can help your loved one receive the care they need while you continue exploring your long-term care options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get home care while waiting for ALTCS approval?
Yes. If your loved one needs assistance now, you don’t have to wait for an ALTCS decision before arranging private-pay home care. Many families choose this option so care can begin immediately.
Do I have to wait for ALTCS before hiring a caregiver?
No. Private-pay home care can typically begin before an ALTCS application is approved, allowing your loved one to receive support with daily activities while the application is being reviewed.
How long does ALTCS approval take?
Approval timelines vary depending on each applicant’s circumstances, required documentation, and eligibility review. Your ALTCS representative can provide updates on your application status.
What if my loved one needs care immediately?
If your loved one cannot safely wait for an ALTCS decision, private-pay home care allows services to begin sooner so they can receive assistance with personal care, companionship, meal preparation, mobility, and other daily needs.
Will paying privately affect my ALTCS application?
Because every situation is different, questions about eligibility or how private-pay services may relate to your application should be directed to your ALTCS representative or case manager.
What types of home care can begin before ALTCS approval?
Depending on your family’s needs, private-pay services may include companion care, personal care, respite care, overnight care, meal preparation, medication reminders, light housekeeping, and 24-hour home care.
Can home care help my loved one remain at home?
Yes. Professional in-home care is designed to help older adults safely remain in the comfort of their own homes by providing assistance with everyday activities while supporting independence and quality of life.
