Your Life. Your Care. Your People.
Get Paid to Care for a Loved One
Customize your care! If you’re eligible for Medicaid and need support, you may be able to stay home and hire your own caregivers–even friends or family! It’s a great option called self-directed care, and we’re here to make it happen for you.
400+
Happy Families
400+
Happy Families
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Your Care, Your Way
Where to begin?
I am a Consumer
(Receive Care)
I need care and want to enroll in CDS
I am an Attendant
(Give Care)
I want to apply to be a paid caregiver
Who We Are
Why we're so passionate about Consumer Directed Services
At Caring Companions, we believe care should feel personal—because it is. That’s why we’re so passionate about Missouri’s Consumer Directed Services (CDS) program. It aligns perfectly with what we stand for: empowering individuals to stay in their homes, surrounded by the people they trust most.
We’ve seen firsthand how life-changing this program can be. CDS allows individuals with disabilities to choose their own caregivers, often a family member or close friend. It’s care delivered with love, not just duty. And that’s powerful.
This isn’t just about convenience—it’s about dignity, control, and connection. Families don’t have to choose between financial strain and caring for a loved one. With CDS, they can do both. The caregiver is compensated for their time, and the person receiving care gets to stay in a familiar environment, supported by someone who truly cares. It’s a win-win.
We handle the paperwork, payroll, and compliance so families can focus on what matters most: each other. Our team walks alongside every client, making sure the process is smooth and that support is always there when needed.
Self-directed care will change your world.
Long-term care is stressful. Really stressful.
Loss of independence, worries about quality of care, financial pressure, limited personal space and privacy, loneliness, emotional strain, fear of neglect or abuse, and mountains of paperwork and bureaucracy.... it's no wonder people want to take back control. Every one of these concerns can be eased by self-directed care, and we want to get you there, as quickly and simply as possible.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions – CDS Program
What is the CDS program?
The Consumer Directed Services (CDS) program allows you to get help at home with daily tasks while staying independent. Best of all, you get to choose your own caregiver, such as a family member or friend, who can be paid for their time.
Who qualifies for the CDS program?
You may qualify if you:
✓ Are 18 or older
✓ Have active Missouri Medicaid
✓ Need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, meals, or mobility
✓ Live in your own home (not in a nursing home)
Can I choose a family member as my caregiver?
Yes! You can choose a trusted family member or friend. However, legal guardians and spouses are not allowed to be paid caregivers through the program.
What kind of help can I get?
Caregivers can assist with:
✓ Bathing, dressing, grooming
✓ Meal preparation and feeding
✓ Light housekeeping and laundry
✓ Medication reminders
✓ Errands and grocery shopping
How much will my caregiver get paid?
Rates vary by agency and funding, but typically our caregivers earn $14–$16 per hour. We will discuss exact pay during the enrollment process.
How do I apply?
To apply to receive care through the CDS program start here. To apply to be a caregiver in the CDS program start here.
What if I don't have anyone to be my caregiver?
No worries! We can help connect you with qualified, caring attendants in your area.
Who pays the caregiver?
Our agency handles all the paperwork, payroll, and background checks. You get to direct the care, and we take care of the rest!
Hear From Our Community
What People Are
Saying About Caring Companions CDS
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“Caring Companions made it easy to care for my grandma while I’m in college.” — Maya S., Caregiver
I'm a full-time student and was already helping my grandma every day. With Caring Companions, I was able to become her paid caregiver and still keep up with school. They handled the paperwork and answered all my questions. Their clocking in system is easy. It’s been a blessing for both of us.
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“The best decision we’ve made for my mom’s care.” — Andy R., Son of Consumer
We didn’t want my mom going into a facility. CDS through Caring Companions let us keep her at home, and now my sister is her paid caregiver. They made the enrollment fast and stress-free. Real people who truly care.
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"Been in CDS for years had a few other companies but caring companions is way better. When I call they actually answer and help me before I'd be on hold forever or never get a call back. now it's easy and they treat me right."
— Walter M., CDS Consumer.”
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"I’m 20 and have a disability so I need help with some daily stuff. CDS lets me get care at home and keep my independence. Caring Companions made it super easy to get started. they don’t treat me like a number, they actually care."
— Jordan R., CDS Consumer
Over 400+
Satisfied Clients
and Families Cared for Since 2017
Rated as a top home care agency 4.9 Stars on Google Reviews
Still have questions?
Whatever your situation, we'd love to chat about how we can make it better, together.
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