Making family-provided care
more sustainable.

Making family-provided care more sustainable.

Many families in Colorado are already providing care at home. Through programs like CFC and IHSS, eligible family members can become paid caregivers. We handle employment, training, and payroll so you can focus on the care.

What Family Caregivers Earn

What Family Caregivers Earn

IHSS + Community First Choice (CFC)
Rate: $18 to $21 per hour.

Pay varies based on service type and level of care authorized.

IHSS allows family members to become trained, paid caregivers for their loved ones at home. No formal certification is required, and most training takes just a few hours. Our team guides you through the entire process.

Your loved one may qualify if they are enrolled in Health First Colorado (Medicaid) and meet eligibility requirements under Community First Choice (CFC). Individuals currently on HCBS waivers are transitioning into CFC through June 30, 2026, and case managers can help determine eligibility.

An older woman smiling while holding hands with a younger woman.

What IHSS Covers

Health Maintenance

Care that would typically be provided in a clinical or skilled setting, delivered safely at home.

Personal Care

Support with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, mobility, and reminders, with varying levels of hands-on assistance.

Homemaker Services

Non-medical support including cleaning, meal preparation, and household tasks tailored to the individual's needs and age.

Two men sitting on a staircase, one holding a tablet and the other holding a coffee mug.
Two men sitting on a staircase, one holding a tablet and the other holding a coffee mug.

The Care You Provide Can Become a Career

The Care You Provide Can Become a Career

Through programs like Community First Choice (CFC) and IHSS, eligible family members, including parents, spouses, and adult children, may be able to serve as paid caregivers for their loved ones.

Our Family First program employs caregivers directly. That means you are not navigating this as an independent contractor or managing your own billing. Total Care Connections handles employment, training, credentialing, and payroll so that the process stays simple and your focus stays on care.

Programs That Support Paid
Family Caregiving in Colorado

Programs That Support Paid
Family Caregiving in Colorado

Colorado offers several pathways for family members to become paid caregivers through Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid program). Community First Choice (CFC) is becoming the primary way many of these services are delivered. Eligibility depends on your loved one's diagnosis, care needs, and current enrollment.

Colorado offers several pathways for family members to become paid caregivers through Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid program). Community First Choice (CFC) is becoming the primary way many of these services are delivered. Eligibility depends on your loved one's diagnosis, care needs, and current enrollment.

Community First Choice (CFC)

Community First Choice (CFC)

Community First Choice is a Medicaid benefit that allows eligible individuals to receive personal care, homemaker, and health maintenance services in their home. CFC supports participant-directed care, meaning your loved one can choose a family member as their caregiver. Between 2025 and June 30, 2026, individuals who previously received these services through HCBS waivers are transitioning into CFC.

IHSS (In-Home Support Services)

IHSS (In-Home Support Services)

IHSS is a participant-directed service model that allows Health First Colorado members to select and supervise their own caregivers, including family members. Through IHSS, members direct their own care while an approved agency like Total Care Connections handles payroll, training, and administrative support. IHSS continues as a delivery option within CFC and covers personal care, homemaker services, and health maintenance activities.

HCBS Waivers

HCBS Waivers

Some individuals may still access paid family caregiving through Colorado's Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers. These waivers serve specific populations and continue alongside CFC during the transition period.

Elderly, Blind and Disabled Waiver (EBD)

For adults 65 and older with functional impairments, or adults 18 to 64 who are blind, physically disabled, or living with HIV/AIDS. Covers personal care, homemaker services, respite care, and more.

Supported Living Services Waiver (SLS)

For adults 18 and older with intellectual or developmental disabilities who do not require 24-hour support. Allows family members and others chosen by the individual to serve as paid caregivers.

Brain Injury Waiver (BI)

For individuals 16 and older with a qualifying brain injury that occurred before age 65. Supports in-home care, personal care, and health maintenance services.

Community Mental Health Supports Waiver (CMHS)

For adults 18 and older with severe and persistent mental health needs requiring assistance with daily living activities.

If your child has complex medical needs or a developmental disability, the pathway may look different. Visit our Little Heroes First page to learn about pediatric programs, including the Children with Complex Health Needs Waiver (CwCHN) and Colorado's Parent CNA Program.

If your child has complex medical needs or a developmental disability, the pathway may look different. Visit our Little Heroes First page to learn about pediatric programs, including the Children with Complex Health Needs Waiver (CwCHN) and Colorado's Parent CNA Program.

You Don't Have to Do This Alone

Many families come to us feeling frustrated, confused, or stuck in the process. Our role is to simplify everything, advocate for you, and help you move forward with confidence.

Professional Support for
Family Caregivers

Professional Support for Family Caregivers

Eligibility Support

We help determine whether your loved one qualifies for CFC, IHSS, HCBS waivers, or other programs that allow paid family caregiving.

Complimentary Credentials

All state-mandated training provided at no cost, including First Aid and CPR classes and professional caregiver certification.

Comprehensive Onboarding

We handle background checks, drug screens, and other state regulatory requirements to get you fully credentialed.

Health and Dental Benefits

Caregivers working at least 29 hours per week are eligible for health, dental, vision, and supplemental benefits.

Bilingual Guidance

Our bilingual care managers guide Spanish-speaking families through every step of the onboarding process.

A Clear Path to Getting Started

1

Initial Assessment

We start by understanding your loved one's care needs and determining eligibility for CFC, IHSS, or other state-funded programs.

1

Initial Assessment

We start by understanding your loved one's care needs and determining eligibility for CFC, IHSS, or other state-funded programs.

2

Training and Certification

You complete your required caregiver certifications through our complimentary training program.

2

Training and Certification

You complete your required caregiver certifications through our complimentary training program.

3

Employment and Onboarding

Once credentialed, we employ you as a member of our team, managing your payroll and benefits.

3

Employment and Onboarding

Once credentialed, we employ you as a member of our team, managing your payroll and benefits.

4

Ongoing support

Our team stays involved with regular check-ins and continuing education to make sure the care stays steady as needs change.

4

Ongoing support

Our team stays involved with regular check-ins and continuing education to make sure the care stays steady as needs change.

Two men sitting on a staircase, one looking at a tablet and the other holding a cup.

Explore Our Other Programs

Explore Our Other Programs

Learn more about the programs available in Tucson.

Learn more about the programs available in Tucson.

We help families understand their options and build in-home care that fits real needs, from childhood through later life.

A young girl smiles while lying in bed with a teddy bear as a healthcare professional uses a stethoscope.

Veterans First

Specialized support for veterans, including VA-authorized care.

Two women sitting on a couch, one in a white shirt and the other in blue scrubs with a stethoscope around her neck, holding hands and smiling.

Little Heroes First

Become your child's professional caregiver with training and full benefits included.

Parent CNA Program

A unique pathway for Colorado parents to earn their CNA and provide paid care for their children.

Let’s talk about how to support your family’s care needs

If you are already providing care for a family member and want to explore becoming a paid caregiver through CFC, IHSS, or Colorado's waiver programs, we are here to answer your questions and help you understand the next steps.

Schedule a Free Assessment

Let’s talk about how to support your family’s care needs

If you are already providing care for a family member and want to explore becoming a paid caregiver through CFC, IHSS, or Colorado's waiver programs, we are here to answer your questions and help you understand the next steps.

Schedule a Free Assessment

Let’s talk about how to support your family’s care needs

If you are already providing care for a family member and want to explore becoming a paid caregiver through CFC, IHSS, or Colorado's waiver programs, we are here to answer your questions and help you understand the next steps.

Schedule a Free Assessment

Let’s talk about how to support your family’s care needs

If you are already providing care for a family member and want to explore becoming a paid caregiver through CFC, IHSS, or Colorado's waiver programs, we are here to answer your questions and help you understand the next steps.

Schedule a Free Assessment

Let’s talk about how to support your family’s care needs

If you are already providing care for a family member and want to explore becoming a paid caregiver through CFC, IHSS, or Colorado's waiver programs, we are here to answer your questions and help you understand the next steps.

Schedule a Free Assessment

Trusted by Families, Every Day

Care that puts
people first

"We could not carry out our family’s daily life without the support and confidence we have in the care our son receives."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Tania Y., Mother of a Veteran |

Google

"After trying three other agencies with numerous problems, Total Care was the best decision we made"

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Leslie W., Family Member |

Google

"Her confidence in caregiving takes away my fears. Just her presence gives me strength."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Donna L., Client |

Google

"The office staff is phenomenal, always flexible, and on top of my sister’s care."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Laura G., Sister of Client |

Google

"We could not carry out our family’s daily life without the support and confidence we have in the care our son receives."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Tania Y., Mother of a Veteran |

Google

"After trying three other agencies with numerous problems, Total Care was the best decision we made"

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Leslie W., Family Member |

Google

"Her confidence in caregiving takes away my fears. Just her presence gives me strength."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Donna L., Client |

Google

"The office staff is phenomenal, always flexible, and on top of my sister’s care."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Laura G., Sister of Client |

Google

"We could not carry out our family’s daily life without the support and confidence we have in the care our son receives."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Tania Y., Mother of a Veteran |

Google

"After trying three other agencies with numerous problems, Total Care was the best decision we made"

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Leslie W., Family Member |

Google

"Her confidence in caregiving takes away my fears. Just her presence gives me strength."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Donna L., Client |

Google

"The office staff is phenomenal, always flexible, and on top of my sister’s care."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Laura G., Sister of Client |

Google

"We could not carry out our family’s daily life without the support and confidence we have in the care our son receives."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Tania Y., Mother of a Veteran |

Google

"After trying three other agencies with numerous problems, Total Care was the best decision we made"

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Leslie W., Family Member |

Google

"Her confidence in caregiving takes away my fears. Just her presence gives me strength."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Donna L., Client |

Google

"The office staff is phenomenal, always flexible, and on top of my sister’s care."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Laura G., Sister of Client |

Google

"We could not carry out our family’s daily life without the support and confidence we have in the care our son receives."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Tania Y., Mother of a Veteran |

Google

"After trying three other agencies with numerous problems, Total Care was the best decision we made"

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Leslie W., Family Member |

Google

"Her confidence in caregiving takes away my fears. Just her presence gives me strength."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Donna L., Client |

Google

"The office staff is phenomenal, always flexible, and on top of my sister’s care."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Laura G., Sister of Client |

Google

"We could not carry out our family’s daily life without the support and confidence we have in the care our son receives."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Tania Y., Mother of a Veteran |

Google

"After trying three other agencies with numerous problems, Total Care was the best decision we made"

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Leslie W., Family Member |

Google

"Her confidence in caregiving takes away my fears. Just her presence gives me strength."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Donna L., Client |

Google

"The office staff is phenomenal, always flexible, and on top of my sister’s care."

Family First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care ConnectionsFamily First Caregiver Program Colorado | Total Care Connections

Laura G., Sister of Client |

Google

The kinds of support we provide

From daily routines to specialized needs, care is shaped around what’s required at home.

Bathing
Toileting
Mobility
Nutrition
Exercise
Sundowning
Laundry
Meal Prep
Errands
Organizing
24-Hour Care
Evening Routine
Mail Help
G-Tube Care
Wound Care
Insulin
Adult Nursing
Training Provided
Bathing
Toileting
Mobility
Nutrition
Exercise
Sundowning
Laundry
Meal Prep
Errands
Organizing
24-Hour Care
Evening Routine
Mail Help
G-Tube Care
Wound Care
Insulin
Adult Nursing
Training Provided
Bathing
Toileting
Mobility
Nutrition
Exercise
Sundowning
Laundry
Meal Prep
Errands
Organizing
24-Hour Care
Evening Routine
Mail Help
G-Tube Care
Wound Care
Insulin
Adult Nursing
Training Provided
Bathing
Toileting
Mobility
Nutrition
Exercise
Sundowning
Laundry
Meal Prep
Errands
Organizing
24-Hour Care
Evening Routine
Mail Help
G-Tube Care
Wound Care
Insulin
Adult Nursing
Training Provided
Dressing
Incontinence
Transfers
Hydration
Fall Safety
UTI Prevention
Housekeeping
Grocery Runs
Companionship
Respite Care
Bedside Care
Calendar Help
Bill Reminders
Tracheostomy
Ostomy Care
Skilled Nursing
Care Planning
Case Manager Support
Dressing
Incontinence
Transfers
Hydration
Fall Safety
UTI Prevention
Housekeeping
Grocery Runs
Companionship
Respite Care
Bedside Care
Calendar Help
Bill Reminders
Tracheostomy
Ostomy Care
Skilled Nursing
Care Planning
Case Manager Support
Dressing
Incontinence
Transfers
Hydration
Fall Safety
UTI Prevention
Housekeeping
Grocery Runs
Companionship
Respite Care
Bedside Care
Calendar Help
Bill Reminders
Tracheostomy
Ostomy Care
Skilled Nursing
Care Planning
Case Manager Support
Dressing
Incontinence
Transfers
Hydration
Fall Safety
UTI Prevention
Housekeeping
Grocery Runs
Companionship
Respite Care
Bedside Care
Calendar Help
Bill Reminders
Tracheostomy
Ostomy Care
Skilled Nursing
Care Planning
Case Manager Support
Grooming
Hygiene
Feeding
Medication
Dementia
Independence
Cooking
Transportation
Hobbies
Live-In Care
Morning Routine
Therapy Reminders
Vital Signs
Ventilator
Catheter Care
Pediatric Care
RN Oversight
Grooming
Hygiene
Feeding
Medication
Dementia
Independence
Cooking
Transportation
Hobbies
Live-In Care
Morning Routine
Therapy Reminders
Vital Signs
Ventilator
Catheter Care
Pediatric Care
RN Oversight
Grooming
Hygiene
Feeding
Medication
Dementia
Independence
Cooking
Transportation
Hobbies
Live-In Care
Morning Routine
Therapy Reminders
Vital Signs
Ventilator
Catheter Care
Pediatric Care
RN Oversight
Grooming
Hygiene
Feeding
Medication
Dementia
Independence
Cooking
Transportation
Hobbies
Live-In Care
Morning Routine
Therapy Reminders
Vital Signs
Ventilator
Catheter Care
Pediatric Care
RN Oversight
Bathing
Toileting
Mobility
Nutrition
Exercise
Sundowning
Laundry
Meal Prep
Errands
Organizing
24-Hour Care
Evening Routine
Mail Help
G-Tube Care
Wound Care
Insulin
Adult Nursing
Training Provided
Bathing
Toileting
Mobility
Nutrition
Exercise
Sundowning
Laundry
Meal Prep
Errands
Organizing
24-Hour Care
Evening Routine
Mail Help
G-Tube Care
Wound Care
Insulin
Adult Nursing
Training Provided
Bathing
Toileting
Mobility
Nutrition
Exercise
Sundowning
Laundry
Meal Prep
Errands
Organizing
24-Hour Care
Evening Routine
Mail Help
G-Tube Care
Wound Care
Insulin
Adult Nursing
Training Provided
Bathing
Toileting
Mobility
Nutrition
Exercise
Sundowning
Laundry
Meal Prep
Errands
Organizing
24-Hour Care
Evening Routine
Mail Help
G-Tube Care
Wound Care
Insulin
Adult Nursing
Training Provided
Dressing
Incontinence
Transfers
Hydration
Fall Safety
UTI Prevention
Housekeeping
Grocery Runs
Companionship
Respite Care
Bedside Care
Calendar Help
Bill Reminders
Tracheostomy
Ostomy Care
Skilled Nursing
Care Planning
Case Manager Support
Dressing
Incontinence
Transfers
Hydration
Fall Safety
UTI Prevention
Housekeeping
Grocery Runs
Companionship
Respite Care
Bedside Care
Calendar Help
Bill Reminders
Tracheostomy
Ostomy Care
Skilled Nursing
Care Planning
Case Manager Support
Dressing
Incontinence
Transfers
Hydration
Fall Safety
UTI Prevention
Housekeeping
Grocery Runs
Companionship
Respite Care
Bedside Care
Calendar Help
Bill Reminders
Tracheostomy
Ostomy Care
Skilled Nursing
Care Planning
Case Manager Support
Dressing
Incontinence
Transfers
Hydration
Fall Safety
UTI Prevention
Housekeeping
Grocery Runs
Companionship
Respite Care
Bedside Care
Calendar Help
Bill Reminders
Tracheostomy
Ostomy Care
Skilled Nursing
Care Planning
Case Manager Support
Grooming
Hygiene
Feeding
Medication
Dementia
Independence
Cooking
Transportation
Hobbies
Live-In Care
Morning Routine
Therapy Reminders
Vital Signs
Ventilator
Catheter Care
Pediatric Care
RN Oversight
Grooming
Hygiene
Feeding
Medication
Dementia
Independence
Cooking
Transportation
Hobbies
Live-In Care
Morning Routine
Therapy Reminders
Vital Signs
Ventilator
Catheter Care
Pediatric Care
RN Oversight
Grooming
Hygiene
Feeding
Medication
Dementia
Independence
Cooking
Transportation
Hobbies
Live-In Care
Morning Routine
Therapy Reminders
Vital Signs
Ventilator
Catheter Care
Pediatric Care
RN Oversight
Grooming
Hygiene
Feeding
Medication
Dementia
Independence
Cooking
Transportation
Hobbies
Live-In Care
Morning Routine
Therapy Reminders
Vital Signs
Ventilator
Catheter Care
Pediatric Care
RN Oversight