During recent months, I have met with many families who have expressed concerned about their own, or a loved one’s, declining health. Their concern is magnified, given the spread of COVID-19 in nursing homes across the country. Nursing homes can certainly provide a level of care that is not always possible at home, and there are times when that is the best option for the safety of the loved one and his or her family; however, the pandemic has resulted in many families searching for alternative solutions for long-term care.
Indiana’s Medicaid Waiver Program allows those who qualify to receive many essential services in the safety of their own home. The care provided under the Medicaid Waiver is intended to improve the quality of life of recipients by allowing them to remain at home rather than in a nursing home. Several assisted living facilities in the area are also approved under the Medicaid Waiver.
Some of the services that may be provided under the Medicaid Waiver include:
· Adult Day Services / Adult Day Care / Adult Family Care / Adult Foster Care – caregivers cannot be related to the care recipient
· Structured Family Caregiving through Caregiver Homes– caregiver can be related to the care recipient and may receive tax-free monthly stipend
· Assisted Living at a Medicaid-certified Assisted Living Facility
· Attendant Care – Assistance with activities of daily living, such as mobility, dressing, toileting, etc.
· Case Management
· Environmental Modifications and Assessment – Addition of walk in tubs, grab bars, widening of doorways, etc.
· Home Delivered Meals
· Homemaker Services – Laundry, housecleaning, meal preparation, etc.
· Medical Equipment and Supplies / Personal Emergency Response System (PERS)
· Respite Care
· Transportation Assistance and Vehicle Modifications
· Pest Control
In order to qualify for the Medicaid Waiver, one must be an Indiana resident, must reside in a setting other than at a nursing home, must require at least the level of care provided in nursing homes (must need assistance with at least three (3) activities of daily living, such as grooming, bathing, and mobility), and must meet financial and income guidelines.
To schedule a free evaluation with a care manager to see if you or your loved one may qualify, medically, for services, contact SWIRCA at 812–464‑7800 and ask for a Medicaid Waiver evaluation. If you or your loved one have excess assets that may cause eligibility issues, you may contact my office at 812–423‑1500 to schedule a free consultation to discuss planning options with a member of my asset protection team.