What is Minnesota's Elderly Waiver Program?

Navigating long-term care options for our loved ones can be incredibly overwhelming, especially when trying to understand the various financial assistance programs available. In Minnesota, there's a valuable resource called the Elderly Waiver (EW) program. It's designed to help seniors who need long-term care but prefer to live in community-based settings like assisted living or memory care facilities rather than a more institutionalized setting like nursing homes.

Why Elderly Waiver?

The Elderly Waiver is a program managed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services that provides financial assistance to seniors eligible for Medical Assistance (MA), the state’s Medicaid program. This waiver helps cover the costs of services, allowing seniors to receive the care they need in environments like assisted living and memory care communities.

The Elderly Waiver aims to help aging adults maintain a higher quality of life by allowing them to live in a more home-like environment for as long as possible.

How Do I Apply for Elderly Waiver?

Applying for the Elderly Waiver starts with an application for Medical Assistance (MA).

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Apply for Medical Assistance (MA): Since the Elderly Waiver is part of Minnesota’s Medicaid program, seniors must first apply for MA. You can apply through your county’s human services office online by clicking here (https://www.minnesotahelp.info/Search/Topics/NL5000.2700/Home__Community_Care_Financing_Programs) and choosing your county from the list. You can also call the Senior LinkAge Line at 1-800-333-2433 and they can guide you through the process as well.

2. Schedule a Long-Term Care Consultation (LTCC): After applying for MA, a caseworker or care coordinator will schedule an LTCC to determine the applicant's level of care and whether they qualify for the Elderly Waiver. After your caseworker identifies the services you need, they will help coordinate your next steps.

3. Choose an Assisted Living or Memory Care Community: Select a licensed provider, including assisted living and memory care facilities, that accept the Elderly Waiver.

What Services Does Elderly Waiver Pay For?

Elderly Waiver typically will cover the following services:

Assisted Living: Bathing, dressing, grooming, and medication management. These are just a few services the Elderly Waiver covers in assisted living facilities.

Memory Care: Support for people with dementia, including those suffering from Alzheimer's disease and other forms of cognitive impairment. These individuals not only require services such as bathing, dressing, and grooming, but also support with their behaviors.

It's crucial to select a provider that not only accepts Elderly Waiver for service reimbursement but also has long-term plans in place to continue to do so. At White Pine and Gracewood Senior Living, we have been at the forefront of providing affordable care to seniors and have accommodated more individuals using Elderly Waiver than almost any other provider. Our extensive experience in supporting older adults on Elderly Waiver should instill confidence that you are partnering with a provider that can genuinely support you, even if you are no longer able to privately fund your care.