10/09/2026
The need for support with personal hygiene is a common need for people with disabilities. There are two approaches we can take to help support someone with this: OPWDD community habilitation and Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP). They are both New York State Medicaid-funded programs that help individuals live independently at home, but they serve different purposes, have different eligibility rules, and cover different types of care. It is possible for a person to have both supports and even to have both of these at the same service time.
Key Differences at a Glance
Primary Focus
Com Hab: Skill building and independence training
CDPAP: Hands-on personal care and medical/daily living tasks
Target Population
Com Hab: Individuals with developmental disabilities (IDD, autism, cerebral palsy) starting before adulthood
CDPAP: Individuals with chronic illness or physical/medical needs requiring home care (no I/DD requirement)
Can Family Members Be Paid?
Com Hab: Generally not if they live in the same household
CDPAP: Yes, family members (including spouses and adult children) can be hired and paid as caregivers
Caregiver Requirements
Com Hab: Must work through an approved OPWDD provider agency; staff need specific training/certifications
CDPAP:No formal certification or medical license required for the chosen personal assistant
Management Style
Com Hab: Directed via an OPWDD Life Plan / Care Coordinator. Can be self hired or direct provider purchased
CDPAP: Consumer-directed: The participant (or designated representative) acts as the boss, hires, trains, and sets schedules
Budget & Funding
Com Hab: Funded through the OPWDD Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver
CDPAP: Funded through standard New York State Medicaid long-term care / managed care
