Assisted Living Waiver (ALW) Program
Helping families access affordable senior care through California's Assisted Living Waiver Program.
What Is ALW
What is ALW (Assisted Living Waiver)?
The Assisted Living Waiver (ALW) is a Medi-Cal program that helps cover the cost of care services for eligible seniors and adults with disabilities who require assistance with daily living. The program allows qualified individuals to receive care in a licensed Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) instead of a nursing facility, while maintaining a more comfortable, home-like environment.
Qualifications
Who Qualifies for the Assisted Living Waiver?
To be eligible, individuals generally must:
- Be enrolled in full-scope Medi-Cal
- Be 65 years or older (or meet disability criteria)
- Be willing to reside in an ALW-approved RCFE
- Meet financial eligibility requirements under Medi-Cal
Our Process
How to Apply for ALW
We help guide you through each step of the process
Complete a Nursing Assessment
A clinical evaluation is performed to determine level of care needs.
Select an ALW-Approved Facility
We help coordinate placement based on care needs and availability.
Move In & Begin Services
Once approved, services begin in a comfortable residential care setting.
What Does ALW Cover?
ALW services may include:
- Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and personal care
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Transportation coordination
- Care coordination and case management
- Medication management
- Meals and dietary support
Important:
ALW covers care services only. Room and board are not fully covered, and a portion of income (SSI) typically contributes toward housing costs.
Why Choose Us
Why Choose ALW at Family Ties Care Home?
- Avoid nursing home placement while still receiving needed care
- Small 6-bed residential setting for individualized attention
- Warm, home-like environment with personalized support
- Direct assistance navigating the ALW process
- On-site medical coordination for convenience and continuity
We do more than simply accept ALW - we help families understand the process, navigate eligibility, and transition into care with confidence.