Resources for Seniors
Indiana Senior Living FAQs
Understanding the Indiana Medicaid Waiver Program
Memory Care Support in Assisted Living
Where to Start
Choosing a senior living community is an option for elders who require varying kinds of services or care. Finding the perfect community can seem overwhelming.
First thing to do? Make a plan.
If you are looking for a loved one, involve the future resident in the selection process. Be prepared to ask a lot of questions when visiting each community.
To begin the process, make a list of the things you require/must haves in order to live in a place that offers you the best experiences and quality of life. Then list the things that you would like to have, and things that you don’t want. Think about today and five years from now. Think about family, pets, and hobbies.
Are you an Indiana Veteran?
If you are a veteran in Indiana facing housing instability, there are both federal and state programs than can help you secure and maintain stable housing.
- Contact your County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) for VA referral and documentation help Grants for Seniors.
- Apply for HUD-VASH through your local PHA if you are homeless or at risk.
- Call MFRF if you have urgent housing needs and meet eligibility.
- Use Indiana 211 or Indianaconnect for local housing and support services.
You’ve made a plan. Now it’s time to search.
Choosing a senior living community isn’t just a checklist; it’s a moment to honor your story and shape what comes next. Take a breath and let your plan guide you toward a place that feels right, supportive and truly yours. This is the start of truly designing the life you want filled the support, amenities and surroundings you wish to enjoy.
We encourage you to choose 2-4 communities to tour. You can look online, or request a brochure, tour or call. Word of mouth is still a powerful tool when choosing. We strongly recommend visiting each community of interest—and even more than once! This is an important decision that needs to be the perfect fit for you.
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Indiana Senior Living FAQs
Understanding the Indiana Medicaid Waiver Program
The Indiana Medicaid Waiver is a program that helps older adults and people with disabilities get care at home or in a community setting instead of moving into a nursing home. It’s part of Indiana’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) system, which is designed to help people stay independent, safe, and comfortable where they live.
What does the Medicaid Waiver do?
It helps pay for services such as:
- Help with bathing, dressing, grooming, and daily tasks
- Medication assistance
- Meal preparation or home-delivered meals
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Transportation
- Adult day services
- Assisted living services
- Home modifications
- Emergency response systems
- Care management
These services are meant to support independence and prevent unnecessary nursing home placement.
Who qualifies?
Eligibility is based on medical need and financial criteria.
To qualify, a person generally must:
- Be aged, blind, or disabled
- Meet nursing facility level of care (meaning they need help with daily activities or have medical needs that require regular support)
- Have income within Medicaid limits (typically up to 300% of SSI)
- Live in or be transitioning to a non‑institutional setting (home, assisted living, etc.)
A medical assessment is required, usually completed through the local Area Agency on Aging (AAA).
Important update: Indiana changed its waiver system in 2024
Indiana’s old Aged & Disabled (A&D) Waiver was split into two new programs:
- Health and Wellness Waiver — for people 59 and younger
- PathWays for Aging Waiver — for people 60 and older
Both programs still provide HCBS services, but they are now managed separately to better meet the needs of different age groups.
Why do families use the Medicaid Waiver?
Because it allows people to:
- Stay in their own home or community
- Maintain independence
- Receive personalized care
- Avoid or delay nursing home placement
- Reduce out‑of‑pocket care costs
Many families say the biggest benefit is peace of mind — knowing their loved one can remain in familiar surroundings with support.
How do you apply?
Applications typically start by contacting your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). They will:
- Complete an initial assessment
- Determine level of care
- Help with Medicaid eligibility steps
- Connect you with a case manager
Waitlists may exist depending on the waiver type and services needed.
Memory Care Support in Assisted Living
How is memory care different from traditional assisted living?
While assisted living offers support with daily tasks, memory care in Indiana adds enhanced safety features, specialized programming, and staff training tailored to cognitive decline. Indiana memory care communities follow state guidelines for Residential Care Facilities, ensuring consistent standards of safety, staffing, and care.
What services are included in Indiana memory care communities?
Most Indiana memory care programs offer:
- 24/7 dementia‑trained staff
- Secure, monitored environments to prevent wandering
- Structured daily routines that reduce anxiety and confusion
- Therapeutic activities such as music, art, sensory programs, and reminiscence
- Medication management and health monitoring
- Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility
- Specialized dining support for changing nutritional needs
These services are designed to support cognitive function, encourage meaningful engagement, and promote emotional well‑being.
Are memory care staff in Indiana specially trained?
Yes. Indiana requires memory care staff to receive additional training in dementia communication, behavioral support, redirection techniques, and safety protocols. This ensures residents receive compassionate, knowledgeable care tailored to their abilities and challenges.
What does the memory care environment look like in Indiana communities?
Memory care neighborhoods in Indiana are intentionally designed to be calming, secure, and easy to navigate. Features often include:
- Clearly marked hallways and common areas
- Enclosed outdoor courtyards
- Reduced noise and clutter
- Familiar décor and homelike touches
- Safety enhancements throughout
These elements help reduce confusion and create a sense of comfort and familiarity.
What kinds of activities do Indiana memory care residents enjoy?
Activities are structured, meaningful, and adapted to each resident’s abilities. Common programs include:
- Music therapy and sing‑alongs
- Reminiscence and storytelling
- Gentle exercise and movement classes
- Art and craft projects
- Sensory experiences
- Small‑group social activities
Indiana communities often incorporate local culture, seasonal traditions, and Hoosier‑friendly themes to spark joy and connection.
How does memory care support families in Indiana?
Indiana memory care communities typically offer:
- Regular communication and care updates
- Family education on dementia
- Support groups and resources
- Care planning meetings
- Guidance on Medicaid Waiver options for eligible residents
Families appreciate knowing their loved one is safe, supported, and cared for by professionals who understand memory loss.
When is memory care the right choice?
Memory care may be appropriate when a loved one:
- Experiences confusion or disorientation
- Wanders or becomes unsafe at home
- Needs structured routines
- Has difficulty with daily tasks
- Shows changes in behavior or mood
- Requires specialized support beyond traditional assisted living
If safety or quality of life is becoming a concern, Indiana memory care can provide the right level of support.
Contact Us
Address
8455 Keystone Crossing
Indianapolis, IN 46240