Assisted living bridges the gap between independent living and nursing home care. The Assisted Living Waiver began in 2006 as another Medicaid waiver option to more expensive nursing home placement. The waiver pays for services received by low-income elderly and disabled adults in certified assisted living facilities.

 

Assisted living residences vary considerably, but most provide meals, housekeeping, laundry, transportation, and social activities. They also offer personal care, such as assistance with eating, bathing, grooming and personal hygiene. Some nursing care is also provided, including medication administration and dressing changes.  Click here for a statewide list of Assisted Living providers.

 

The waiver provides Medicaid eligible adults more support than in-home care, but offers more independence and privacy than skilled nursing facilities and in a home-like setting. You must meet all eligibility requirements for enrollment in the waiver, including;

• Age 21 or older;
• Medicaid eligible;
• Require hands-on assistance with at least two of the following: mobility, bathing, using the bathroom, dressing, grooming, eating, and taking medicines; and
• Care needs that can be safely met in an assisted living setting.

 

Free In-Home Assessment

Email or call 937-223-HELP (4357) for your free in-home assessment. A nurse or social worker visits you in your home to assess your needs and discuss options. You will answer many questions and the assessor will observe your level of independence. The assessor will need to review documentation of income and assets to make a preliminary determination about you eligibility for the Assisted Living Waiver.

 

If you qualify for Medicaid but are not currently enrolled, the assessor can assist with completion of the Medicaid application. You must then follow up with the application process through the Department of Job and Family Services.