Caregiver Programs Available to You in Texas

Texas has more caregiver support programs than most families realize. If you're caring for an aging parent or spouse, there are programs that can pay you for your work, give you a break through respite care, connect you with other caregivers, and help you figure out the benefits your loved one qualifies for. You don't have to do this alone, and you don't have to pay for everything out of pocket.

This guide covers every major caregiver program in Texas, from Medicaid-funded options that pay family members to free support groups and training. We'll point you to the right program based on your situation.

In This Guide

• Key Takeaways
• Texas Caregiver Programs at a Glance
• Programs That Pay Family Caregivers
• Respite Care Programs
• Support Groups and Counseling
• Your Local Area Agency on Aging
• Other Caregiver Resources
• Key Phone Numbers and Contacts
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Next Steps

Key Takeaways

• Texas has multiple programs that pay family members to be caregivers through Medicaid CDS, VA benefits, and state-funded programs.
• 28 Area Agencies on Aging provide free caregiver support including counseling, training, respite vouchers, and help accessing services.
• Respite care vouchers of $800 to $1,000 are available through the Texas Lifespan Respite Care Program so you can take a break.
• The Alzheimer's Association runs free support groups across Texas, plus a 24/7 helpline at 800-272-3900.
• Call 1-800-252-9240 to reach your local Area Agency on Aging and get connected to caregiver programs near you.

Texas Caregiver Programs at a Glance

Programs That Pay Family Caregivers

If you're already providing daily care for a family member, several Texas programs can pay you for that work. Here's a quick overview of each option. For the full step-by-step process, pay rates, and eligibility details, see our guide to getting paid as a family caregiver in Texas.

Medicaid Consumer Directed Services (CDS)

The most common path. CDS lets your loved one become your employer through Texas Medicaid. They hire you, set your schedule, and direct the care they receive. A Financial Management Services Agency (FMSA) handles payroll and taxes.

CDS is available through three Medicaid programs, all without a waitlist:

• STAR+PLUS, the main Medicaid managed care program for seniors and adults with disabilities
• Community Attendant Services (CAS) with up to 50 hours per week of personal care
• Community First Choice (CFC), an entitlement program with no waitlist

Pay typically ranges from $10.25 to $17.00 per hour depending on your managed care plan and region. Adult children, grandchildren, and siblings can be hired. Spouses cannot be paid caregivers under Medicaid programs.

CMPAS (Community-Based Alternatives)

If your loved one doesn't qualify for Medicaid, the Community-Based Alternatives program (formerly CMPAS) may be an option. Unlike Medicaid CDS, spouses can be hired as paid caregivers through this program. The pay structure is similar to CDS rates.

VA Caregiver Programs

For families of veterans, the VA offers two programs:

Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC): Pays a monthly stipend based on the veteran's location and care needs. In the Houston area, that's approximately $2,187 to $3,499 per month. The veteran must have a service-connected disability rated at 70% or higher. Spouses can qualify. Primary caregivers also receive CHAMPVA health insurance, mental health counseling, and at least 30 days of respite care per year.

Veteran Directed Care (VDC): Gives veterans a flexible budget to hire their own caregivers, including family members and spouses. A financial management services provider handles payroll. In Texas, VDC is available through organizations like REACH, Inc. and the North Central Texas Council of Governments.

Call the VA Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274 for more information about either program.

Respite Care Programs

Every caregiver needs a break. Respite care gives you time off while someone else cares for your loved one, even if it's just for a few hours.

Texas Lifespan Respite Care Program (Take Time Texas)

The state's main respite program provides vouchers of $800 to $1,000 per eligible family through your local Area Agency on Aging. The voucher covers in-home or facility-based respite care and can be used all at once or spread over a three-month period. This program doesn't pay you as the caregiver. It pays for a substitute so you can rest.

To find a respite provider near you, visit Take Time Texas or call your local AAA at 1-800-252-9240.

Medicaid-Funded Respite

If your loved one is on the STAR+PLUS HCBS waiver, respite care is a covered benefit. The waiver provides in-home and facility-based respite so family caregivers can take a break. The STAR+PLUS base program also covers limited respite through Community First Choice.

NFCSP Respite Through Your AAA

Your local Area Agency on Aging may also offer respite care directly through the National Family Caregiver Support Program. Availability varies by region and funding, so call your AAA to ask what's available in your area.

Support Groups and Counseling

Caregiving can be isolating. Talking with people who understand your situation makes a real difference.

Alzheimer's Association Texas Chapters

The Alzheimer's Association runs five chapters across Texas with free support groups, educational programs, and individualized care planning. You don't have to be caring for someone with Alzheimer's to use many of these resources.

Texas chapters include:

• Houston & Southeast Texas (alz.org/texas)
• Dallas & Northeast Texas (alz.org/dallasnetexas)
• San Antonio & South Texas (alz.org/sanantonio)
• Capital of Texas / Austin (alz.org/texascapital)
• North Central Texas (alz.org/northcentraltexas)

Each chapter offers both in-person and virtual support groups led by trained facilitators. Master's-level clinicians provide free individualized care planning sessions.

Alzheimer's Texas (txalz.org), a separate Central Texas nonprofit, also offers caregiver education and support services.

The 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900 provides confidential support, crisis assistance, and referrals in over 200 languages. Calling at 2 AM because you're overwhelmed is exactly what it's there for.

AAA Caregiver Counseling and Training

Through the National Family Caregiver Support Program, your local AAA offers individual counseling, caregiver training, and help organizing support groups. These services are free and available to caregivers of adults age 60 and older. Priority goes to caregivers who are older, have lower income, or care for someone with dementia.

Your Local Area Agency on Aging

Texas's 28 Area Agencies on Aging are often the single best starting point for caregivers. They're federally funded through the Older Americans Act and deliver five categories of services through the National Family Caregiver Support Program:

1. Information about available services in your area
2. Help accessing services. They'll walk you through applications and connect you to programs
3. Counseling and training. One-on-one support plus caregiver skills training
4. Respite care. Temporary relief from caregiving duties
5. Supplemental services like home modifications, emergency response systems, and nutritional supplements (on a limited basis)

Most families who call their AAA for the first time are surprised by how much help is available. The staff know every program in your area and can point you to resources you wouldn't find on your own.

Call 1-800-252-9240 to reach your local AAA.

Other Caregiver Resources

Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs)

ADRCs cover all 254 Texas counties and serve as one-stop shops for long-term care information. They help caregivers and seniors find services, understand Medicaid options, and connect with local programs. Call 1-855-937-2372 (855-YES-ADRC).

2-1-1 Texas

Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211texas.org for 24/7 referrals to community services. Operators can connect you to local food assistance, utility help, transportation, and other support services that reduce the financial burden of caregiving.

PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly)

PACE bundles medical care, prescriptions, adult day care, home health, transportation, meals, and caregiver respite into one program for adults 55 and older who need nursing facility-level care. In El Paso, Bienvivir Senior Health Services operates PACE centers and can be reached at (915) 562-3444. PACE availability in Texas is limited to specific service areas.

Electronic Visit Verification (EVV)

If you become a paid Medicaid caregiver through CDS, you'll need to know about EVV. Texas requires electronic visit verification for all Medicaid-funded personal care services. Your FMSA will help you set up the system, which tracks clock-in/clock-out times through a phone or app.

Key Phone Numbers and Contacts

Can I get paid to take care of my parent in Texas?

Yes. Through Medicaid's Consumer Directed Services (CDS) program, your parent can hire you as their paid caregiver. Adult children, grandchildren, and siblings qualify. Pay ranges from $10.25 to $17.00 per hour depending on the managed care plan. Your parent must be on Texas Medicaid and need personal care assistance. See our full guide to getting paid as a family caregiver for the step-by-step process.

Where do I find caregiver support groups near me in Texas?

Start with the Alzheimer's Association, which runs free in-person and virtual support groups through five Texas chapters. Call 800-272-3900 for help finding a group near you. Your local Area Agency on Aging (1-800-252-9240) can also connect you to support groups in your area.

How do I get respite care in Texas?

The Texas Lifespan Respite Care Program provides vouchers of $800 to $1,000 through your local AAA. Visit Take Time Texas to search for respite providers in your area, or call 1-800-252-9240. If your loved one is on the STAR+PLUS HCBS waiver, respite care is a covered Medicaid benefit.

What's the difference between CDS, CAS, and CFC?

All three are Medicaid programs that let your loved one hire family members as caregivers. CDS is the employer option available across multiple Medicaid programs. CAS provides up to 50 hours per week of attendant care. CFC is an entitlement with no waitlist. In practice, many families access CDS through CAS or CFC because neither has a waitlist. Your service coordinator can help you figure out which combination works best.

Next Steps

Finding the right caregiver program depends on your family's specific situation. Here's where to start:

• If your loved one is on Medicaid (or might qualify), ask about CDS through their service coordinator, or read our guide to getting paid as a family caregiver in Texas.
• If your loved one is a veteran, call the VA Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274.
• If you need a break, contact your local AAA at 1-800-252-9240 about respite vouchers.
• If you need someone to talk to, call the Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.
• If you're not sure where to start, call the ADRC at 1-855-937-2372 or chat with Brevy to get personalized guidance on which programs fit your family.

For a deeper look at Texas Medicaid options, see our guides to Texas Medicaid programs, STAR+PLUS, and HCBS waivers.

The information on Brevy.com is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional legal, financial, or medical advice. Medicaid rules vary by state and change frequently. Always verify eligibility and benefits with your state Medicaid agency or a qualified professional. Brevy is not a law firm, financial advisor, or healthcare provider.