A guide for seniors, families & caregivers — Updated 2026
If you or a loved one is a senior living in Indiana and struggling with healthcare costs, Indiana Medicaid may be able to help. Indiana’s Medicaid program operates under several program names depending on who qualifies — and for seniors, understanding which program applies to you is the first step. This guide breaks down Hoosier Healthwise eligibility for seniors, income and asset limits, covered services, and exactly how to apply in Indiana.
What Is Hoosier Healthwise — And Is It for Seniors?
Hoosier Healthwise is Indiana’s Medicaid managed care program primarily designed for children, pregnant women, and low-income families. Most seniors age 65 and older, however, are enrolled in a different program: Indiana Medicaid for Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD), or they may access long-term care through the Pathways for Aging waiver program.
Get the Complete Medicaid Guide for Seniors →
That said, seniors who are under 65 and meet income requirements may qualify for Hoosier Healthwise. And many Hoosier seniors receive benefits through Medicaid and Medicare dual eligibility, sometimes called the Hoosier Care Connect program, which coordinates both types of coverage seamlessly.
Indiana Medicaid Programs Most Relevant to Seniors
- Traditional Medicaid (ABD): For adults 65+ or those who are blind or disabled with limited income and assets.
- Hoosier Care Connect: For seniors who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid (dual eligibles), offering coordinated managed care.
- Pathways for Aging: Indiana’s primary Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver, helping seniors avoid nursing home placement.
- Hoosier Healthwise: Available to low-income adults under 65 who do not qualify for Medicare, including some younger seniors.
Indiana Medicaid Eligibility for Seniors — 2026 Income & Asset Limits
Eligibility depends on your age, residency, income, and assets. Below are the key thresholds for 2026:
| Program | Who Qualifies | Monthly Income Limit | Asset Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid ABD (Single) | Adults 65+, blind, or disabled | ~$1,255/month | $2,000 |
| Medicaid ABD (Married) | Both spouses applying | ~$1,704/month | $3,000 |
| Nursing Home Medicaid | Seniors needing institutional care | ~$2,901/month | $2,000 |
| Pathways for Aging Waiver | Seniors needing home-based care | ~$2,901/month | $2,000 |
| Hoosier Healthwise | Adults under 65, low-income | Up to 138% FPL (~$1,732) | No asset test |
Note: Income and asset figures are approximate 2026 estimates and subject to change. Always verify with the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA).
What Does Indiana Medicaid Cover for Seniors?
Indiana Medicaid provides a broad range of covered services for qualifying seniors, including:
- Doctor visits, specialist care, and preventive screenings
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Prescription drug coverage
- Nursing facility care (for those who qualify medically)
- Home health aide services and personal care assistance
- Adult day services and respite care (through Pathways for Aging)
- Mental health and behavioral health services
- Medical transportation to appointments
How to Apply for Indiana Medicaid as a Senior
- Gather your documents: You’ll need proof of age (birth certificate or ID), Social Security number, proof of Indiana residency, income statements (
Last Updated on 17 September 2026 by ingmin