A Guide to the Elderly Waiver Program in MN

When a loved one needs more support than can be provided at home, moving them to an assisted living may be very beneficial and becomes an important next step. But for many families, the cost of care can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, Minnesota offers the elderly waiver program MN, which helps cover the cost of care for seniors who qualify. If you’re looking for assisted living facilities that accept elderly waiver MN, Empower Center Care accepts the elderly wavier and is here to help walk you through the process.

We understand that navigating programs like the elderly waiver MN can be confusing. In this blog will walk you through how to confirm elderly waiver MN eligibility the process of enrolling your loved ones to an assisted living with the elderly waiver program. 

Step 1: See If Your Loved One Is Eligible

Before searching for assisted living facilities that accept elderly waiver MN, you’ll have to start with understanding elderly waiver MN eligibility. Your loved one may qualify if they:

• Are age 65 or older
• Are a Minnesota resident
• Qualify for Medical Assistance (MA)
• Require the level of care provided in a nursing facility
• Can live safely in a community setting with waiver support

At Empower Center Care, we work closely with families to help assess elderly waiver MN eligibility and provide guidance throughout the application and approval process.

Step 2: Search for Assisted Living Facilities That Accept the Waiver

Once eligibility is confirmed, it’s time to search for assisted living facilities that accept elderly waiver MN. Here are a few things on what to look for:

Ask directly if they accept the elderly waiver MN

Many websites don’t clearly state this, so always ask up front.

Confirm they’re licensed for customized living services

Only licensed providers can bill under the elderly waiver program MN.

Ask what’s included under the waiver

Not all facilities include the same services. At Empower Center Care, our waiver-based residents receive:

• Medication management
  
  
• Personal care support
• Transportation and meal services
• Daily activities and supervision
• 24/7 staffing and safety monitoring
  
  

For more information on our care services, check out our Assisted Living Services that we offer our residents. 

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Step 3: Evaluate Quality, Culture, and Fit

Just because a facility accepts the elderly waiver MN doesn’t mean it’s the right fit. Here’s what we recommend you look for when you’re finding the right assisted living facility for your loved one:

• Warmth and hospitality – Does the staff treat residents with dignity and care?
• Clean, safe environment – Tour the facility in person. Trust your gut.
• Activities and engagement – Are there social opportunities for residents?
• Cultural compatibility – Especially for diverse communities, does the facility respect your values?
• Transparent communication – Are they open, honest, and responsive?

At Empower Center Care, we’re proud to offer all of the above and more. We don’t just say we care, we show it every day.

Step 4: Prepare for the Application Process

Applying for the elderly waiver program MN takes time and documentation. At Empower Center Care we help families prepare what’s needed to minimize stress.

Here’s what you typically need:

• Proof of age and residency
• Income and asset documentation
• A health assessment confirming the need for care
• Application for Medical Assistance, if not already enrolled

Our team connects you with the right case workers, helps you fill out forms, and advocates for your loved one through every step.

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Common Questions About the Elderly Waiver MN

1. How long does approval take?

Approval for the elderly waiver MN can take several weeks. Starting early and working with an experienced provider like Empower Center Care can speed things up.

2. Can my loved one move in before approval?

In some cases, yes. We work with families on a case-by-case basis to explore temporary solutions until waiver approval comes through. 

3. Does Empower Center Care accept both the elderly waiver and CADI waiver?

Yes. We are licensed to accept both programs and can help determine which is the best fit based on your loved one’s age and needs.

Get Help Navigating the Waiver Process

Understanding waivers can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our experienced team at Empower Center Care is ready to guide you. Contact us today to learn more about CADI and elderly waiver programs or to schedule a tour of our community. Or visit our Guide to the CADI Waiver and Elderly Waiver Programs in Minnesota to learn more about the programs available.