1. Program Definition and Services 

Personal Assistance Services, also known as the Personal Care Assistance (PCA) Program, provides assistance to eligible adults with disabilities to help them remain at home and in the community. Services include: 

• Hands-on assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, toileting, eating, and transferring 

• Help with instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) like meal preparation, shopping, and light housekeeping 

• Assistance with social and business affairs, such as escorting while doing errands or visiting friends 

2. Regulations 

The program is governed by Sections 17b-262-587 through 17b-262-596b of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies 

3. Licensing or Certification 

No specific licensing or certification is required for individual personal care attendants. However, the program is administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)  

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Department of Social Services (DSS) is responsible for operating and overseeing the Personal Care Assistance Program 

5. Application Process 

Interested individuals can apply by: 

• Calling the DSS Community Options Unit toll-free at 1-800-445-5394 (select option 4)  

• Applying online at www.ascendami.com. 

6. Required Documentation 

Applicants should be prepared to provide: 

• Information about the type of help needed 

• Health conditions 

• Financial information 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The specific timeline for approval is not provided in the available information. However, available slots are filled in the order referrals are received, provided all eligibility criteria are met 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no specific pre-application process mentioned. However, interested individuals should gather the necessary information before calling or applying online 

9. Pre-Application Training 

No pre-application training is required. However, once approved, the program participant is responsible for hiring, training, and if necessary, firing their personal care attendant 

10. Additional Notes 

• Eligibility is limited to adults aged 18-64 with disabilities 

• Applicants must require nursing home level of care and need assistance with at least two ADLs 

• Financial eligibility for Connecticut Medicaid is required 

• The program has a limited number of slots, and waiting lists are common 

• Participants have 90 days to hire a personal care attendant after approval 

• A fiscal contractor handles employer tax responsibilities