Assisted Living Waiver Program

I. Introduction to Assisted Living and the Waiver Program

Assisted living offers many benefits to seniors who live alone. Besides the enjoyment of the company of other seniors in the community, they can also appreciate personalized care and attention provided by highly trained caring staff. However, these advantages often come at a hefty price, potentially out of reach for many low-income seniors.

The Assisted Living Waiver program addresses this issue by providing financial assistance to seniors, allowing them to receive necessary care in a homelike environment rather than the more institutional setting of a nursing home.
This program enables eligible seniors to live in assisted living communities, enhancing their quality of life by providing a comfortable environment and essential care services.

II. Services Provided by the Assisted Living Waiver Program

The ALW program offers a range of essential services designed to support independent living for seniors:

• Personal Care: Help with daily living activities such as eating, dressing, bathing, and toileting.
• Mobility Assistance: Support with movement to ensure safety and prevent falls.
• Medication Management: Supervision and administration of medications to prevent errors and ensure effective treatment.
• Transportation: Organized transport to essential medical appointments and other necessary destinations.
• Health Services: Access to appropriate levels of nursing care to address individual health needs.
• Social and Recreational Activities: A variety of social and recreational programs to encourage engagement and enhance mental health.
• Housekeeping and Laundry: Regular housekeeping and laundry services to ease the burden of daily chores.
• Nutrition: Provision of balanced and nutritious meals tailored to the dietary needs of seniors.
• Transition Care: Assistance for those transitioning from a nursing home to assisted living, ensuring a smooth adjustment.

These comprehensive services ensure that participants in the ALW program enjoy not only better health but also a higher quality of life.

III. Eligibility Criteria for the Assisted Living Waiver Program

To qualify for the ALW program, individuals must meet specific criteria:

• Age Requirement: Must be 21 years of age or older.
• Medical Eligibility: Must qualify for full Medi-Cal benefits without any share-of-cost.
• Care Level Requirement: Must require the same level of care as those provided in nursing homes, as per Medi-Cal standards.

The program is aimed specifically at helping those who would otherwise require nursing home care.
Applicants should be prepared to reside in an assisted living facility that offers a safer and more comfortable alternative to nursing homes.
Astoria Park Senior Living is equipped to provide these services and is located in a supportive community environment.

IV. Financial Responsibilities and Assistance Opportunities

While the ALW program subsidizes many services, participants are responsible for their own room and board expenses. The fixed monthly rate for room and board typically ranges from $1,039 to $1,059. Those unable to afford these fees may find suitable options in subsidized public housing.

Several financial assistance options are available for those struggling to manage the costs of assisted living:

• HUD Section 202 Program: This program helps qualified seniors find subsidized housing with additional services such as housekeeping and meals.
• Veterans’ Benefits: Financial aid through the Aid & Attendance benefit for eligible veterans needing long-term care.
• Medicaid Programs: Various Medicaid programs help cover the costs associated with assisted living; these vary by state.
• State Assistance Programs (Non-Medicaid): Specific programs available in certain areas may help subsidize assisted living expenses.
• Long-Term Care Insurance: Depending on the policy, this insurance may cover some of the costs of assisted living.
• Social Security Benefits: While it does not directly cover assisted living costs, it can help manage overall living expenses.

V. How to Apply for the Assisted Living Waiver Program

To apply for the ALW program:

1. Submit a Medi-Cal application to the local Department of Human Services.
2. Once approved, contact a care coordination service to proceed with the assisted living application process.

Expect the application process to take between three to six months.

Astoria Park Senior Living, located at 925 E Villa Street, Pasadena, CA 91106, is a proud participant in the ALW program and welcomes inquiries and applications. For more information or to schedule a tour, call us at 926-796-4303 or email info@astoriaparksl.com.

VI. Assessing Assisted Living Options

When considering assisted living, it’s vital to assess various factors:

• Level of Care: Different facilities offer varying levels of care. Determine what level of medical and personal care you or your loved one will need.
• Location: Proximity to family, medical facilities, and other amenities can influence your choice of facility.
• Amenities: Consider the amenities that are important for comfort and quality of life, such as outdoor spaces, fitness centers, and activity programs.
• Staff and Community: The quality of staff and the community atmosphere play a crucial role in the experience of the residents. It’s essential to choose a place that feels welcoming and where the staff are professional and caring.
• Cost: Understand all associated costs and what they cover. Transparent pricing and the availability of different payment options are important to consider.

VII. Alternatives to Assisted Living

While many find assisted living to be an ideal solution, it’s not the only option. Home care services or smaller residential care homes, often referred to as board and care homes, might be more suitable depending on individual needs and preferences.

Consider all available options and consult with care managers, social workers, or other professionals to make the best choice for your situation.

VIII. Planning for the Future

Planning elder care is a continuous process that involves considering future health changes and care needs. Early planning can help ensure that transitions into different care settings are as smooth as possible.

Astoria Park Senior Living encourages early application and planning to secure a spot in our community, especially since spaces can fill up quickly.

IX. Conclusion

The Assisted Living Waiver program is a vital resource for seniors in Pasadena and across California, offering an alternative to nursing home care. By understanding the eligibility criteria, financial obligations, and application process, families can make informed decisions about senior care.

Astoria Park Senior Living is here to assist every step of the way. Reach out to us for more information, to ask questions, or to schedule a visit. We’re here to support you and your loved ones in finding the perfect senior living solution.