The waiver program in the state of Pennsylvania offers a variety of benefits, such as the option to choose a skilled provider, health and safety guarantees, and due process. Waiver was first initiated by the federal government in the attempt to waive the institutional care rules for Medical Assistance and Medicaid. In so doing, recipients would utilize the same funds for services and support to stay closer to their loved ones and community.
Services Provided
There are many different kinds of waivers that provide care for different disabilities, ailments, and injuries. Some of these include the Aging Waiver, which helps people over 60 year olds receive services for long term care, and the Life Program which encourages senior independent living by providing supportive services and health care services. If you’re the caretaker of a loved one with epilepsy, Autism, or even a traumatic brain injury, there are waiver programs that can support their care. The Department of Human Services in the state of Pennsylvania administers several waivers for Medical Assistance and Medicaid recipients. Each of these waivers comes with specific eligibility services and requirements.
The Aging Waiver is the most common program for seniors, so let’s unpack the eligibility requirements.
The Requirements
You must be 60 years or older to be on the Aging Waiver program. The program allows seniors to stay in their homes and in their communities while receiving services and support to maintain their independence. There are certain conditions potential recipients have to meet and they include
- Resident of Pennsylvania
- 60 years and older
- Have a social security number
- U.S. citizenship
- Specific level of care met in order to go to a Skilled Nursing facility
- Local county’s financial requirements met
Available Services
Some of the available services include:
- Services for adult daily living
- Home health care
- Meals delivered to the home
- Community transition
- Medical supplies
- Accessibility equipment such as a wheelchair
- Technology
- Transportation services for non-medical reasons
- Personal assistance
- Service coordinator
- Emergency response system
- Respite
- Therapy and Counseling
- Nursing services
- Special medical supplies and equipment
- Home adaptation
The state does not put any cap on services for participants of the Aging waiver program. There is no allowance for contributions or cost sharing.
Conclusion
If you are a caretaker of a loved one and are considering a senior center in Philadelphia, it is possible to do so through the Waiver Program. All you have to do is to schedule an appointment to discuss your eligibility, after which you will put in your application and provide the required documentation.
Penn Village Adult Daycare is proud to be one of the top centers for seniors in the area. Contact us today with questions about the Waiver Program and to learn more about our services!