Navigating the Elderly Waiver and Alternative Care Programs [A guide for older adults]
Minnesota offers support through programs like Elderly Waiver (EW) and Alternative Care (AC) that aim to empower older adults by providing crucial services that enable them to age in place comfortably. Both programs are for adults 65 and older who require nursing home-level care but prefer to remain in their homes and communities.
Both programs cover a range of services such as paid caregivers, specialized equipment and supplies, home-delivered meals, homemaker services, personal emergency response systems, chore services, companion services, non-medical transportation, and others not covered by insurance or medical assistance.
Eligibility Program Requirements and Application Information
A main difference between Elderly Waiver and Alternative Care eligibility is the income of the individual receiving services. To qualify for EW, a person must be eligible for Medicaid. Minnesota’s Medicaid program is known as Medical Assistance.
If you are interested in determining eligibility for Medicaid, the American Council on Aging has put together helpful Medicaid Planning Assistance.
To qualify for the Alternative Care program, an individual’s income and assets must not be enough to cover a nursing home stay of 135 days and must also require services that AC can provide.
To apply for either program, contact the Senior Linkage Line at 800.333.2433 or your county health and human service or tribal agency. They will help determine eligibility and facilitate a long-term care consultation (LTCC) or MnCHOICES assessment to determine your needs.
Home Care Services with Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS)
Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS) is a unique option available through the Elderly Waiver and Alternative Care programs that empowers individuals to have greater control over their services. CDCS offers flexibility to choose caregivers and allows individuals to decide how their allocated funds are best utilized to support their well-being.
Choice of Caregiver
CDCS funds can be used to compensate family members, including grown children or grandchildren, who are already providing caregiving services for their aging loved ones. This recognizes the significant role that family members play in caring for their elderly relatives. Spouses can also be paid caregivers. In addition to family members, other trustworthy individuals such as neighbors and friends can receive payment for providing caregiving support.
Purchasing Goods and Services
CDCS funds can be used to purchase qualified goods that support the individual’s unique needs and are not covered by insurance or Medical Assistance. These might include personal emergency response systems, homemaker agency services, meal services, chore services, lift chairs, respite services, necessary home accommodations, and supplies not covered by Medicaid. These goods must be in the individual's plan and approved by their care coordinator.
Financial Management Service
When choosing CDCS, the individual will work with a Financial Management Service (FMS) provider to assist with paying for approved services, billing and payroll-related responsibilities. PICS (Partners in Community Supports) has supported individuals as an FMS provider for nearly 25 years. We help individuals facilitate the hiring of paid caregivers, process payroll for caregivers, process and pay expense reimbursements, and handle taxes and reporting. Our support means that you spend less time on the financial aspects of self-directed care and more time caring for your loved one. Contact PICS today to learn more.