A home helper can assist with everyday tasks like cleaning, cooking, and bed-making right in your home. You're entitled to hire one privately, but if you're 60+ and meet certain criteria, the departmental council may cover costs through social assistance—provided you don't qualify for the APA (Personalised Autonomy Allowance). Here's expert guidance on accessing this vital support.
If you're not receiving APA, you may qualify for social assistance for home help if you:
This aid is paid directly to an authorized home help service approved by the county council. Direct payment to you is possible if no local service exists or you hire independently—but you'll need to provide proof of expenses.
Start with a doctor's assessment and medical prescription, often issued post-hospitalization for major surgery or serious pathology. Submit your application to your local CPAM (or relevant fund if not under general scheme), including the prescription and income proof.
This assistance isn't a permanent grant. The council can recover funds from your estate after death if it exceeds €46,000.
Retirees may access help via their pension fund (check yours, as not all offer it). For long-term ALD cases, your health insurance fund covers up to three months, eight hours/week, with two renewals.
Reach out to:
Your local Departmental Council, town hall, or CCAS can provide info and file assistance.
Hours are tailored to needs, assessed by the funding body—e.g., 30 hours/month for singles or 48 hours/month for couples.
