Note: For the purposes of this guide, when we say “Memory Care” we are referring to memory care provided in a “social setting,” such as an Assisted Living Facility. This is the most common way to receive Memory Care and is the best fit for all but the frailest seniors. Sometimes the actual service of memory care can be provided in a Nursing Home (“medical setting”), so the financial assistance options will be very different. To learn more about the financial assistance options available for memory care provided in a nursing home, read our guide to Nursing Home Care in Idaho.
Idaho’s Medicaid program for elderly and disabled adults covers many services that are provided in assisted living and memory care facilities. These benefits are available to individuals who require help with day-to-day activities due to Alzheimer’s, dementia or another disability. There are several ways to receive long-term care benefits in Idaho as long as you have limited income and assets and meet the medical eligibility requirements.
Idaho’s Personal Care Services Program is the primary source of these benefits. Since it’s part of the official Medicaid State Plan, it’s an entitlement available to all eligible beneficiaries without a waiting list. The state also provides a Medicaid waiver for assisted living and residential memory care, and there are several options for dual enrollees who qualify for Medicaid and Medicare.
If Idaho pays your Medicare premiums, you may be eligible for the Medicare Medicaid Coordinated Plan. The MMCP pays for primary and emergency medical care as well as long-term services and supports. Beneficiaries gain access to State Plan Personal Care Services, the Aged & Disabled Waiver and even nursing home care when these services are medically necessary.
Idaho Medicaid Plus is another managed care program available to adults who are enrolled in Original Medicare and Enhanced Medicaid. The program gives beneficiaries access to Personal Care Services and passive enrollment in the Aged & Disabled Waiver. This waiver can help with the cost of memory care when these services are necessary. IMPlus is available to dual enrollees in 21 counties.