Illinois developed the Supportive Living Program
as an alternative to nursing home care for low-income older persons
and persons with disabilities under Medicaid.
By combining apartment-style housing with personal care and other
services, residents can live independently and take part in decision-making.
Personal choice, dignity, privacy and individuality are emphasized.
To test the concept of supportive living for Medicaid clients,
the Department of Healthcare and Family Services has obtained a "waiver" to
allow payment for services that are not routinely covered by
Medicaid. These include personal care, homemaking, laundry, medication
supervision, social activities, recreation and 24-hour staff
to meet residents' scheduled and unscheduled needs. The resident
is responsible for paying the cost of room and board at the facility.
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