The Special Assistance Adult Care Home Special Care Unit Program (SA/SCU) is a North Carolina state and county program intended for low-income seniors with Alzheimer’s Disease or a similar dementia, such as Parkinson’s Disease. Via this program, monthly financial assistance to help cover the cost of room and board in special care units (sometimes called memory care units or Alzheimer’s care units) in adult care homes (also known as assisted living facilities) is provided.
This program is administered by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ (NCDHHS) Division of Aging and Adult Services. SA/SCU is a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) state supplement.
In order to be eligible for the SA/SCU program, there are several eligibility requirements that must be met.
The SA/SCU program provides monthly financial support to assist with the cost of room and board of a special care unit in an adult care home. Special care units are specifically intended for individuals with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease or a related dementia. These units, which as mentioned previously, may also be called Alzheimer’s units or memory care units. Those working in these units are specially trained to work with those with memory loss and cognitive issues due to dementia.
As of 2019, the maximum monthly benefit amount is $1,561. (As with income, this figure has not changed in the last several years). One’s benefit amount is calculated by subtracting one’s countable monthly income from the maximum monthly benefit amount.
If an applicant is eligible for the SA/SCU program, one is automatically eligible for Medicaid. While SA/SCU does not cover the cost of medical care, North Carolina Medicaid covers the cost of medical care, as well as non-medical care, such as personal care assistance.
To apply for the SA/SCU program, North Carolina residents should contact their local county Department of Social Services (DSS).
To apply, one must fill out an application in person at their local DDS office. To download a SA/SCU program brochure, click here. In addition, very limited program information can be found on the NCDHHS website.