Can a family member be a live-in caregiver? (San Diego: to rent, house)

[familyhelper]

I live in San Diego and my uncle is disabled. My grandmother passed away a couple of years ago and the house that my uncle shared with her went to him. My uncle needs around the clock care and currently has someone that comes in to take care of him at night. Would it affect my uncle's benefits if I were to move in with him and provide that night-time care instead? Kind of swap the care for room and board?

[RosieSD]

If your uncle is receiving in home caregiver services through Medical, I'd suggest you call the San Diego County In-home Supportive Services office to ask this question. California (and 15 other states) have a program that lets family caregivers be paid for providing in home care in certain instances after screening, so you might want to look into that. You can find the number to call here:
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)

And this article will tell you a little more: Yes, You Can Get Paid as a Caregiver, Earn Money Caregiving - AARP

However, if you just want to live with your uncle and let him keep his current caregiver, then it probably won't affect his benefits, unless you are also contributing to rent or otherwise adding to his income. But, just to be sure, you should double check with Medical and/or the County agency linked to above.

Finally, caregiving can be emotionally and physically tiring. So, before deciding to replace the current caregiver yourself, I'd suggest you try it for a week or two without help to see if you are really up for the job long term. There are plenty of other ways you can help your uncle, without becoming his full time caregiver.