The IHSS Assessment Visit: What to Expect and How to Prepare
The IHSS assessment is crucial for determining your eligibility and authorized hours. Being well-prepared and understanding the process helps ensure you receive appropriate services.
Assessment Overview
- Duration: Typically 2-3 hours
- Location: Your home
- Conducted by: County social worker
- Purpose: Evaluate functional limitations and care needs
- Frequency: Initial, then annual or as needed
Areas Evaluated (Functional Index Rankings)
- Housework: Cleaning, laundry abilities
- Shopping/Errands: Mobility and cognitive ability
- Meal Preparation: Planning and cooking skills
- Personal Care: Bathing, dressing, grooming
- Ambulation: Walking and mobility
- Bowel/Bladder: Continence and bathroom needs
- Memory/Orientation: Cognitive functioning
- Judgment: Safety awareness and decision-making
What the Social Worker Will Ask
- Detailed questions about each daily activity
- How long tasks take you
- What assistance you currently receive
- Your medical conditions and medications
- Living situation and household members
- Ability to manage finances and medications
Preparation Checklist
- List all medical conditions and treatments
- Gather recent medical records and doctor notes
- Prepare medication list with dosages
- Note specific examples of daily challenges
- Have someone supportive present if desired
- Keep diary of care needs for two weeks prior
During the Assessment
- Be honest about your limitations
- Describe your most difficult days
- Don’t minimize needs out of pride
- Provide specific examples of incidents
- Ask questions if unclear about anything
- Request interpreter if needed
Your Rights During Assessment
- Have advocate or family member present
- Record the assessment (inform worker)
- Request different social worker if needed
- Ask for clarification on any topic
- Receive written notice of determination
Expert Tip:
- Don’t clean up before the assessment—let the social worker see your actual living situation and the challenges you face maintaining your home.
Next Step
After assessment, expect Notice of Action within 10-30 days detailing your approved hours.
