Indiana’s Flagship Program: PathWays for Aging
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) launched PathWays for Aging in July 2024 as a Medicaid managed care program for Hoosiers aged 60 and older. It aims to provide greater choice and support for seniors needing long-term care, helping them remain in their homes and communities. Members choose one of three health plans (Anthem, Humana, or UnitedHealthcare) to coordinate their care.
How PathWays for Aging Works and Available Services
Eligible seniors enroll with a Managed Care Entity (MCE) which provides a care coordinator to create a personalized care plan. This program offers extensive home and community-based services (HCBS) for those requiring nursing facility-level care. These include, but are not limited to:
- Adult day services and assisted living
- Attendant care and respite care for caregivers
- Home-delivered meals and transportation
- Home and vehicle modifications
- Personal emergency response systems
- Specialized medical equipment
Other Key Elderly and Disabled Programs in Indiana
Indiana offers several other programs, sometimes in conjunction with PathWays or for different eligibility groups.
The CHOICE Program (Community and Home Options)
The state-funded CHOICE program supports independent living for older adults and people with disabilities, typically starting at age 60 with more generous asset limits than full Medicaid. Services include homemaker assistance, transportation, and meals.
Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)
PACE offers a comprehensive managed care option for eligible individuals aged 55 or older requiring nursing home-level care, providing integrated medical and social services. It is separate from the PathWays MCE plans.
Aged and Disabled Waiver
This Medicaid waiver previously offered HCBS as an alternative to nursing facility care. With the launch of PathWays, these waiver services are now managed under the new program.
Structured Family Caregiving (SFC)
SFC provides financial support, including a daily stipend, to eligible family members who provide care for elderly relatives at home.
Vital Support Services for Seniors
Indiana provides additional aid for daily living and quality of life.
Financial Assistance, Nutrition, and Health
- Financial Assistance: Programs like the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) help with utility costs, SNAP assists with food purchases, and HoosierRx helps with Medicare Part D premiums for eligible seniors.
- Nutrition Support: Meals on Wheels delivers meals to homebound seniors, the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program provides vouchers for produce, and congregate meal sites offer community meals.
- Health and Wellness: The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free counseling on Medicare options, and PathWays health plans may include chronic disease management programs.
Your Entry Point: Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)
Indiana's network of 15 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) is the primary resource for navigating senior programs. They serve all 92 counties and can assess needs, determine program eligibility, assist with applications, and connect individuals to local resources and service providers.
Comparing PathWays for Aging and the CHOICE Program
| Feature | PathWays for Aging | CHOICE Program |
|---|---|---|
| Program Type | Managed Medicaid HCBS | State-funded, non-Medicaid |
| Eligibility | Age 60+, on Medicaid, requires nursing facility-level care | Age 60+ (or disabled), risk of losing independence |
| Funding | Medicaid | State funds and other sources |
| Services Covered | Broad range of HCBS, medical, behavioral, and social needs | Focus on home services like homemaker, transportation, meals |
| Care Coordination | Mandatory care coordination via a chosen MCE | Coordinated through AAAs |
Conclusion
Indiana offers a network of programs to support its senior population. PathWays for Aging is the main initiative for eligible Medicaid recipients aged 60 and older needing coordinated long-term care. Other programs like CHOICE, PACE, and Structured Family Caregiving address various needs. The best starting point for information and assistance is the local Area Agency on Aging. Understanding these options empowers older Hoosiers to access the necessary support for independent aging. For more details, visit the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) website.
