Individualized Home Supports (IHS) in Minnesota: Complete Guide for Families and Case Managers
Complete guide to Individualized Home Support services in Minnesota, including eligibility requirements, three service types, enrollment process, and what families and case managers need to know.
What is Individualized Home Support?
Individualized Home Support (IHS) is a Minnesota waiver service that provides personalized, in-home support to help individuals with disabilities maintain independence in their own homes. IHS services are designed to be flexible and tailored to each person's unique needs and goals.
Person-Centered Approach
Services are designed around the individual's preferences, goals, and needs
Flexible Scheduling
Support can be provided during the day, evening, or overnight as needed
Family Involvement
Families can be trained to provide support and work alongside staff
Community Integration
Focus on helping individuals participate in their communities
Who Qualifies for IHS in Minnesota?
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for IHS services, individuals must meet specific criteria related to their disability, functional needs, and waiver program enrollment.
Basic Requirements
- Must have a qualifying disability or condition
- Enrolled in a Minnesota waiver program (CADI, DD, BI, or CAC)
- Need assistance with daily living activities
- Living in the community (not in a facility)
Functional Needs
- Difficulty with personal care tasks
- Need assistance with household management
- Require support for community participation
- Benefit from skill development and training
Three Types of IHS Services
IHS Services
Basic individualized home support services that help with daily living activities and community participation.
Personal Care
- • Bathing and grooming assistance
- • Dressing and undressing
- • Toileting and hygiene support
- • Medication reminders
Household Support
- • Meal planning and preparation
- • Light housekeeping
- • Laundry assistance
- • Shopping support
IHS with Training
IHS services plus specialized training to help individuals develop new skills and increase independence.
Skill Development
- • Communication skills
- • Social interaction training
- • Problem-solving skills
- • Self-advocacy training
Life Skills
- • Money management
- • Transportation training
- • Safety awareness
- • Health and wellness education
IHS with Family Training
IHS services plus training for family members to help them provide support and work effectively with staff.
Family Education
- • Understanding disability needs
- • Communication strategies
- • Behavior support techniques
- • Crisis intervention training
Support Strategies
- • Daily routine planning
- • Goal setting and tracking
- • Community resource navigation
- • Transition planning
What Services Are Included
IHS services are comprehensive and can include a wide range of supports tailored to each individual's needs. Here's what you can expect from your IHS provider:
Personal Care Services
- Assistance with bathing, grooming, and hygiene
- Dressing and undressing support
- Toileting and incontinence care
- Medication administration and reminders
- Mobility assistance and transfers
Household Management
- Meal planning and preparation
- Light housekeeping and cleaning
- Laundry and clothing care
- Shopping and errands
- Home safety assessments
How to Get Started with IHS
Step-by-Step Process
Contact your county case manager or waiver coordinator
Complete a functional assessment to determine needs
Develop a person-centered plan with your team
Choose a provider and begin services
Contact Information
County Case Manager: Contact your local county office
Waiver Coordinator: Available through your waiver program
Provider Referrals: Ask your case manager for provider lists
Timeline Expectations
Assessment: 2-4 weeks
Plan Development: 1-2 weeks
Provider Selection: 1-2 weeks
Service Start: Within 30 days
Documents You May Need
Required Documents
- Medical documentation of disability
- Proof of Minnesota residency
- Income and asset verification
- Insurance information
Helpful Documents
- Recent assessments or evaluations
- Current support plan or IEP
- List of current medications
- Emergency contact information
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between IHS and other home support services?
IHS is specifically designed for individuals with disabilities who need ongoing support to live independently. Unlike general home care, IHS focuses on skill development, community integration, and person-centered planning.
Can family members be trained to provide IHS services?
Yes! IHS with Family Training allows family members to be trained and certified to provide support services, often at a lower cost than agency staff while maintaining quality care.
How many hours of IHS services can I receive?
The number of hours depends on your assessed needs and waiver program. Hours are determined through a functional assessment and person-centered planning process with your case manager.
What is the difference between IHS with training and IHS with family training?
IHS with training is for adults only and focuses on teaching the individual new skills. IHS with family training includes both the individual and their family in the training process to increase the family's caregiving capabilities.
How long does it take to start IHS services after approval?
Once approved and enrolled with a provider like Truwell, services can typically begin within 72 hours to 2 weeks, depending on staff availability and your specific needs.
Ready to Get Started with IHS Services?
Our team can help you navigate the IHS enrollment process and connect you with the right services for your needs.