Consumer Demographics and Statistics

IHSS provides services to an extremely diverse population. IHSS serves older adults and persons of any age who are physically disabled, developmentally disabled, mentally ill, or have severe cognitive difficulties such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Any individual who meets income and resource requirements can qualify for IHSS as long as they have a distinct, permanent need for services.

IHSS serves approximately 286,953 consumers throughout California’s 58 counties – from Alpine County with only eight consumers to Los Angeles County with 121,569 consumers. Statewide data from August 2002 indicate that:

• 66% of the individuals receiving IHSS are female;
• 57% are ethnic minorities;
• 44% have a primary language other than English;
• 85% receive personal care services
• 86% receive SSI benefits
• 40% of consumers now receiving IHSS are under the age of 65