The Assisted Living Program is a part of the Medical Assistance Program, but has some differences in eligibility from other Medical Assistance programs. Sometimes called a “waiver”, it is a program for people who might otherwise need to be in a nursing facility. Anyone who is eligible for this program also gets full medical assistance benefits including medications, medical services and dental benefits. There is a waiting list for the Assisted Living program.
For Home and Community-Based Programs, only the applicant’s own income and half of any joint assets (such as with a spouse) are counted. People with income up to $775 and assets at or below $4,000 may be eligible without having to pay toward services. People over this income may be able to pay monthly toward their services and still get Medical Assistance and Program benefits. Unlike regular Medical Assistance, though, transfers of assets might affect eligibility. Any person 18 years of age or older who is found to be severely and permanently disabled, or 65 years of age or older, or blind, and meet a nursing facility level of care, and need help with at least two activities of daily living, and meet the income and asset requirements may be eligible for the following services:
Case Management
Assisted Living Services
Assistive Devices
Contact the Rhode Island Department of Elderly Affairs at 401-462-0572 for more information.
