In the wake of a federal report that identified several Illinois nursing homes as being among the most unsafe in the country, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services announced Wednesday it plans to add 18 new supportive living facilities
In the wake of a federal report that identified several Illinois nursing homes as being among the most unsafe in the country, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services announced Wednesday it plans to add 18 new supportive living facilities for seniors and people with physical disabilities. “The expansion of the Supportive Living Program will result in additional high quality housing options for people who need long-term care, as well as economic development opportunities throughout the state,” said Barry Maram, director of the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services. “The development of new supportive living facilities will mean additional jobs – construction, facility staff – not to mention the potential for increased revenue for local businesses while supporting the states’ efforts to reform its long term care system.” The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services operates the Supportive Living program for low-income seniors age 65 and older, and persons age 22 and older who have physical disabilities under Medicaid. Unlike traditional senior homes, supportive living facilities offer residents an apartment style-housing atmosphere combined with personal care, medication management and other health and wellness services. Residents are able to live more independently at supportive living facilities so they can take part in decisions regarding their needs. Theresa Eagleson, administrator of the state’s Medicaid program, said that personal choice; dignity, privacy and individuality are all emphasized through the program “Supportive living facilities make a critical range of services available while providing individuals with more choices for care,” Eagleson added. “The quality of applications received in this solicitation was outstanding. Clearly, the market and consumer demand for this type of affordable housing with services model is strong.” The state’s Medicaid program pays for a portion or all of the medical care for eligible residents. Residents are responsible for paying for their housing with Social Security or other personal funds. There are 119 operational supportive living facilities with nearly 9,400 apartments located throughout the state.
