Oregon Project Independence is for older adults who need help taking care of their daily needs continue living independently in their own homes.

The goal is to prevent inappropriate or premature placement in a nursing home by providing limited in-home services. It fills the gap between Medicaid and private pay caregiving. 

Some OPI services are available to people 60 and older as well as any adult living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

CAT provides OPI services to residents of Columbia County. OPI is a state program, created and funded by the Oregon State Legislature, and all services are provided based upon available funding. 

Who does OPI Serve?

OPI serves Oregonians older than age 60 who do not receive most Medicaid services. You may qualify if the state is paying your Medicare premiums or if you receive food stamps. Persons younger than age 60 who have a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia may also be eligible for OPI services.

To qualify for OPI, a person must need some type of in-home assistance based on an assessment done by a Community Action Team Case Manager.

How much do OPI services cost? 

Monthly charges for services are based on the amount of your household income after deductions for medical expenses. This is compared to the annual federal poverty levels and used to determine what someone should contribute to the cost of services. 

How many hours of assistance are provided?

OPI hours are based on a person’s level of need. An in-home assessment is completed to determine the service priority level. The average number of hours is 12 hours per month. 

How does someone apply? 

As an Area Agency on Aging (AAA), Community Action Team’s Case Manager can help you apply and arrange for OPI services. The OPI case manager will perform an individual assessment to determine care needs and eligibility for OPI on a case-by case basis. 

OPI provides assistance to help you stay in your own home – independent and secure.

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