Dementia Care Resources Michigan: Programs and Support for Families

After a dementia diagnosis, Michigan families typically spend weeks searching across disconnected state agencies trying to piece together what help is available. The programs exist — the problem is that no single agency provides a complete map.

Here are the core resources organized by what they actually do for your family.

State-Administered Care Programs

Michigan Home Help Program — If your parent qualifies for Medicaid and needs assistance with at least one activity of daily living, this program pays approved family caregivers $17.13 per hour for up to 180 hours per month. It does not require nursing facility level of care, making it accessible in early-to-mid stage dementia. Legal spouses cannot be paid. Apply through your county MDHHS office.

MI Choice Waiver — For parents who meet nursing facility level of care criteria, this Medicaid waiver pays for comprehensive home and community-based services including personal care, adult day health, and supports coordination. Income must be under $2,982 per month and countable assets under $9,950. Approximately 20,543 slots statewide with regional waitlists. Start the process by calling 1-800-803-7174.

PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) — A managed care model for adults 55+ who meet nursing facility level of care. Services are delivered through regional day centers and include primary medical care, meals, rehabilitation, and coordinated transportation. PACE is mutually exclusive with the MI Choice Waiver. Private-pay premiums start at approximately $4,100 per month for those who do not qualify for Medicaid.

Regional Entry Points

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) — Michigan has 16 regional AAAs that serve as the entry point for most state-funded elder services. They coordinate Level of Care Determinations, connect families to local respite programs, and administer the National Family Caregiver Support Program (which provides respite funding without a strict income test). Find your regional AAA at 1-800-803-7174.

MDHHS County Offices — Your local county office handles Medicaid applications, Home Help Program enrollment, and Adult Protective Services. Applications can be submitted online through MI Bridges or in person.

Alzheimer's and Dementia-Specific Organizations

Alzheimer's Association Greater Michigan Chapter — Provides disease education, caregiver training, support group referrals, and a 24/7 helpline (1-800-272-3900). They offer free care consultations and can help families develop a care plan, though they do not handle Medicaid applications or facility placement.

Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Center — Affiliated with the University of Michigan, this center offers clinical evaluations, research trials, and specialized diagnostic services. Useful for families who want a second opinion on a diagnosis or access to emerging treatments.

Safety and Oversight Resources

LARA Facility Database — Search any Adult Foster Care home or Home for the Aged by name to verify active licensing and review inspection reports. Available online through the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

Long-Term Care Ombudsman — Call 1-866-485-9393 to report concerns about care quality in any residential facility, or to get help when a facility threatens an involuntary discharge.

Adult Protective Services — Report suspected abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult at 1-855-444-3911. APS is required to begin an investigation within 24 hours.

Putting It All Together

The Michigan Dementia Care Guide consolidates all of these resources into a single sequential roadmap with phone numbers, forms, and step-by-step instructions organized by where you are in the caregiving journey — from early-stage planning through facility placement and estate recovery.

See more Michigan guides →