For many families, caregiving begins without much thought.

A daughter starts stopping by every evening after work to prepare dinner. A son begins managing medications and driving his dad to appointments. A close friend checks in daily to help with bathing, grocery shopping, and housekeeping.

Before long, what started as “helping out” has become a part-time—and then eventually a full-time—job.

What many Ohio families don’t realize is that some Medicaid recipients may qualify to have a trusted friend or family member become their paid caregiver.

If you’ve been wondering whether this program is available for your loved one, here’s what you need to know.

What Is the Friends & Family Caregiver Program?

Ohio’s Medicaid-funded waiver program allows individuals who qualify for in-home care to receive assistance from someone they already know and trust.

Instead of having a stranger provide all of their care, eligible individuals may be able to choose a family member or trusted friend to become their caregiver.

The caregiver is hired through an approved home care agency, receives training and ongoing support, and is paid for providing approved care services.

For many families, it’s a win-win.

The person receiving care stays with someone they already feel comfortable around, while the caregiver receives compensation for the time and energy they’re already investing.

Who May Qualify?

While every situation is unique, the person receiving care generally must:

  • Be enrolled in Ohio Medicaid.
  • Qualify for the Ohio Medicaid Waiver (also called Passport Waiver for those over age 60)
  • Require assistance with daily living activities.

Daily living activities may include:

  • Hygiene activities such as bathing, dressing and toileting.
  • Meal preparation and Light housekeeping
  • Mobility assistance
  • Medication reminders
  • Grocery shopping

Medicaid will complete an assessment to determine what services are appropriate based on the individual’s needs.

Who Can Become a Caregiver?

Depending on the individual’s situation and program guidelines, caregivers may include:

  • Adult children
  • Other relatives
  • Close family friends
  • Trusted neighbors

One important requirement is that the caregiver generally cannot live in the same household as the person receiving care. Every situation is different, so eligibility is determined during the application and assessment process.

What Is the Application Process?

Step 1: The person receiving care must already have Medicaid in Ohio.

Step 2: Call the appropriate agency and request an Ohio Medicaid Waiver Assessment
For Seniors over the age of 60, call the Area Agency on Aging.
Dayton: 937-223-4357
 Cincinnati: 513-721-1025

 For individuals under age 60, you’ll call 844-644-6582.

Step 3: The Assessment
If appropriate, Medicaid will arrange for an assessment to evaluate the individual’s care needs and determine eligibility for home care services.

Step 4: The Referral
Once the waiver is approved, you will request a referral to Amazing Grace Home Care agency. This is what we will need in order to pay the caregiver for their services.

Step 5: Caregiver Onboarding
Once the caseworker has submitted the referral, the caregiver will complete required employment paperwork, training, and orientation with our team.

Step 6: Begin Being Paid For Your Care
After everything is finalized, the caregiver can begin providing approved services.

Why Families Love This Program
Every family is different, but many tell us the biggest benefits include:

Familiar Faces
Receiving care from someone you already know often reduces stress and anxiety.

Financial Relief
Many caregivers reduce work hours—or leave jobs altogether—to care for a loved one. Being compensated can ease some of that financial pressure. At Amazing Grace Home Care, we pay weekly, offer access to a 401K to help you prepare for your future, provide free mental health and telehealth support and more. Caregivers give so much of themselves, and we always ensure our caregivers have the support and appreciation they deserve!

Personalized Care
No one understands your loved one’s routines, preferences, and personality better than family or close friends.

Ongoing Support
When working with Amazing Grace Home Care, caregivers aren’t expected to figure everything out on their own. Our caregivers receive guidance, resources, and support throughout the process.

Common Questions

Can I care for my parents?
In many cases, yes. Eligibility depends on the individual’s situation and Medicaid program requirements.

Does my loved one have to move?
No. The goal of the program is to help eligible individuals remain safely in the comfort of their own home whenever possible.

Is there training?
Yes! Caregivers receive onboarding and training before beginning services. They also have ongoing access to resources, education, and our team!

How long does approval take?
Every case is different. The timeline depends on Medicaid processing, assessments, and required paperwork.

We’re Here to Help You Navigate the Process

Trying to understand Medicaid can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to figure it out alone.
At Amazing Grace Home Care, we walk families through the process every day. If your loved one may qualify for in-home care, we’ll help explain your options, answer your questions, and guide you through each step with compassion and honesty.

Whether you’re just starting your research or you’re ready to explore becoming a paid caregiver for someone you love, our team is here to help.

Let’s Talk
If you think you or someone you know may qualify for Ohio’s Medicaid Friends & Family Caregiver Program, we’d love to have a conversation. Reach out to Alicia at 937-613-8554 (calls or texts) or email Aliciac@amazinggracehomecareoh.org and let her know you’d like to get more information. 

There’s no pressure—just real answers, helpful guidance, and a team that’s committed to helping families keep their loved ones safe, comfortable, and cared for at home.

Because at Amazing Grace Home Care, we believe home is the best medicine.