IHSS Evaluation for Spinal Cord Injury & Paralysis
Spinal cord injury causing paraplegia or quadriplegia requiring comprehensive in-home personal care assistance.
Book Evaluation Do I Qualify?Why Spinal Cord Injury & Paralysis Qualifies for IHSS
Spinal cord injury creates direct, objective functional limitations. Individuals with paraplegia or quadriplegia require assistance with virtually all personal care tasks. IHSS is a primary support system for community living after SCI.
Spinal cord injuries result in motor and sensory loss below the level of injury. Depending on completeness and level, individuals may have paraplegia or quadriplegia requiring varying levels of personal care assistance.
Common Symptoms
- Paralysis (complete or incomplete) below injury level
- Loss of sensation below injury level
- Bladder and bowel dysfunction
- Pressure ulcer risk requiring position changes
- Spasticity and muscle spasms
- Autonomic dysreflexia (cervical/upper thoracic injuries)
- Respiratory complications (high cervical injuries)
- Chronic pain (neuropathic)
- Temperature regulation problems
- Orthostatic hypotension
Functional Limitations Evaluated
- Cannot perform any standing ADLs without assistive equipment
- Requires assistance with all transfers (bed to wheelchair)
- Bladder catheterization requires assistance
- Bowel program requires personal care attendant
- Pressure relief requires repositioning assistance
- Quadriplegia: limited or no hand function for self-care
Documents to Prepare
Related Subconditions
Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia)
Paralysis affecting all four limbs and the torso.
Paraplegia
Paralysis that affects all or part of the trunk, legs, and pelvic organs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does IHSS cover bowel and bladder care?
Yes, assistance with bowel and bladder routines is considered a crucial personal care service under IHSS.
Will IHSS pay for a family member to be my caregiver?
Yes, in California, family members (including spouses and parents) can be paid IHSS providers.
Spinal Cord Injury & Paralysis IHSS Evaluations by City
Select your California city for local IHSS information specific to Spinal Cord Injury & Paralysis.