Glossary
IHSS
Also called: In-Home Supportive Services
IHSS, In-Home Supportive Services, is a California Medi-Cal program that pays for in-home care hours for eligible low-income older adults and people with disabilities so they can stay at home.
The recipient chooses and directs the caregiver, who can be a family member. Hours are set by a county assessment.
Related terms
Medi-Cal
Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program, the joint state and federal health coverage for people with limited income and assets, and the payer of last resort for long-term care.
In-home care
In-home care is non-medical help at home with bathing, dressing, meals, housekeeping, errands and companionship, provided by a caregiver from a licensed agency or hired privately.
Definitions reviewed September 5, 2026. Rules vary by state and change over time; confirm specifics with the community and the licensing agency.