The HSE home support service helps older people stay in their own homes for as long as possible.
You can apply for home support if you are:
- at home
- in hospital
- in a nursing home and want to return home
How the home support service can help
The home support service can help with everyday tasks such as:
- getting in and out of bed
- dressing and undressing
- personal care, such as showering or shaving
The type of support you get depends on your needs.
It can be provided directly by the HSE or by an HSE-approved provider.
Who can apply
The home support service is for people age 65 or over, who may need help to:
- continue living at home
- return home after a hospital stay
In some cases, people under age 65 may also qualify for support. For example, people with early onset dementia or a disability.
Home support funding option
Consumer Directed Home Support (CDHS) is an option provided by the HSE. It offers you more choice in how the service is delivered.
If you are approved for CDHS, you will receive a letter confirming a weekly amount of funding. You can use this funding to arrange home support with one or more HSE-approved providers of your choice.
The number of Home Support hours you receive depends on the provider’s rates and on the days and times you choose for your care. Your provider will explain their rates when you are agreeing your care plan. Providers are not allowed to charge more than the rates agreed with the HSE, or to add any extra fees or charges.
Costs
The home support service is free. You do not need a medical card to apply, and your income will not be checked.
If you choose to have more home support than what the HSE offers, you will need to pay for this yourself.