Bridging generations through caregiving while empowering families every step of the way

Providing care for a loved one is a big responsibility, but it’s also a testament to resilience, compassion, and connection. At Northeast Independent Living Services (NEILS), our intergenerational caregiver programs empower families to become their own care team with wages covered through Missouri Medicaid.

Hiring Family Members Through Consumer-Directed Services

One of the most unique benefits of NEILS’ Consumer-Directed Services is that you can hire a trusted family member (not a spouse or legal guardian) to serve as your personal care attendant and have the state pay their wages. As their legal employer, you select, train, and direct care, while NEILS handles payroll and service monitoring. This allows families to bring comfort and intimacy into health care, while still ensuring caregivers are compensated fairly.

The Power of Compassionate, Connected Care

When family members provide care, relationships often deepen. Daily companionship can build trust and kindness often beyond the formal duties of caregiving. Families become stronger, more empathetic, and better equipped to face life’s challenges together. This intergenerational caregiving also supports emotional well-being, family cohesion, and resilience across both the caregiver and recipient.

Building Skills and Confidence Through Care

Serving as a caregiver for a loved one teaches valuable life skills. From time management and medical coordination to advocacy and emotional communication, family caregivers often grow in ways that benefit them long after their caregiving role ends.

For younger family members stepping into caregiver roles, it’s an opportunity to develop maturity, compassion, and practical abilities that can shape their personal and professional lives. For older caregivers, it’s a chance to give back, stay active, and remain deeply connected to family.

At NEILS, we recognize and support this personal growth by offering guidance, resources, and training through our Home Care Services. When caregivers feel confident and supported, the entire family thrives.

How Payment Works with NEILS

Under the MO HealthNet CDS program, Medicaid covers caregiver wages. NEILS acts as your fiscal agent, handling all payroll processing and compliance. You simply direct care for your loved one and we’ll handle all the administration.

Ready to Create Connection Through Care?

By hiring a friend or family member as your paid caregiver, you’re creating a compassionate care environment rooted in trust, comfort, and family bonds. 

Connect with NEILS today to explore our CDS programs or learn more about our in-home support. You can also visit our Contact Us page or call us at 573-221-8282 to start building a care plan tailored for your family.