A Simple Guide to the CADI Waiver and Elderly Waiver Programs in Minnesota
If you’re searching for affordable senior housing in Minnesota, you might feel overwhelmed with the options and costs. Thankfully, programs like the CADI Waiver and the Elderly Waiver MN exist to help. These assisted living waiver programs offer essential support and services for older adults and individuals with disabilities, making senior housing more accessible and affordable for those in need.
This guide breaks down what each program offers, who qualifies, and how they help make assisted living more accessible.
What is the CADI Waiver?
The Community Access for Disability Inclusion (CADI) Waiver is a Minnesota program that helps people with disabilities live in the community instead of a nursing facility. It is one of the state’s assisted living waiver programs and can cover services in your home, family member’s home, or an assisted living setting.
Who Qualifies for the CADI Waiver?
To qualify for the CADI Waiver, you must:
- Be under age 65
- Be eligible for Medical Assistance (MA)
- Be certified disabled by the Social Security Administration or the State Medical Review Team
- Need the level of care typically provided in a nursing home
Once you qualify, a case manager will help develop a care plan to support your health, safety, and independence while staying within your individual budget.
Learn more about CADI eligibility from MN DHS CADI Waiver page.
What is the Elderly Waiver MN Program?
The Elderly Waiver MN program (often referred to as EW) helps adults 65 and older who need nursing home-level care but prefer to live at home or in assisted living.
This assisted living waiver program pays for services not normally covered by Medical Assistance, such as help with daily living activities, transportation, meals, and caregiver support.
Who Qualifies for the Elderly Waiver MN?
You may qualify for the elderly waiver MN program if you:
- Are 65 years or older
- Live in Minnesota
- Need care typically provided in a nursing facility
- Are eligible for long-term care under Medical Assistance
- Can live safely in the community with support from the waiver
This program helps seniors remain independent while receiving the care they need.
Learn more about Elderly Waiver eligibility from MN DHS Elderly Waiver page.
What Services Do These Waiver Programs Cover?
Both the CADI Waiver and the elderly waiver MN program cover a wide range of services, such as:
- Adult day programs and companionship
- Personal care assistance
- Housekeeping and chore help
- Transportation (non-medical)
- Home-delivered meals
- Home modifications (like ramps or grab bars)
- Emergency response systems
- Respite for family caregivers
- Customized living services in assisted living
These services can be provided in different settings—your own home, with family, or in a licensed assisted living facility.
Choosing a Community That Accepts Waiver Programs
Empower Center Care proudly accepts both the CADI Waiver and the elderly waiver MN. We believe that every senior deserves access to high-quality, compassionate care—regardless of income.
Our dedicated staff works closely with families to make sure every resident receives the support they need through these assisted living waiver programs.
Looking for Assisted Living that Accepts CADI and Elderly Waiver?
If you’re looking for affordable senior living and want to see if the CADI Waiver or elderly waiver MN could help, we’d love to talk.
Schedule a tour with us at Empower Center Care to talk with our team about eligibility and discover a supportive, affordable community. With the right guidance and the help of these assisted living waiver programs, you or your loved one can live a safe, happy, and fulfilling life—without breaking the bank.
