Choosing the right type of care for yourself or a loved one can feel overwhelming. For many families, the decision comes down to two options: staying in the community with support through the NHTD waiver or moving into a traditional nursing home.
Both options can provide important care, but they are very different. The right choice depends on a person’s health needs, daily support needs, and personal goals.
What Is Traditional Nursing Home Care?
A traditional nursing home is a residential setting that provides round-the-clock care. It is often the best fit for people who need ongoing medical supervision and help throughout the day and night.
Nursing homes typically offer:
- 24/7 nursing care and supervision
- Medication management
- Help with bathing, dressing, and meals
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Meal planning and nutrition support
- Social and recreational activities
This type of care may be appropriate for people with serious medical conditions or those who cannot safely live at home, even with support.
What Is the NHTD Waiver?
The Nursing Home Transition and Diversion (NHTD) waiver is a New York Medicaid program that helps eligible adults receive services in the community instead of in a nursing home. It is for adults aged 18 to 64 with a verified physical disability and adults aged 65 and older who need a nursing-home level of care but can live safely in the community with support.
The program is designed to help people stay as independent as possible while receiving services based on their individual needs.
How NHTD Is Different
The biggest difference is the setting.
In a nursing home, care is provided in a facility. With NHTD, services are provided in the community, often in the person’s own home or another approved community setting.
Another major difference is choice. In the NHTD program, the participant plays a central role in developing the service plan. This person-centered approach gives people more say in how and where they receive care.
Services NHTD May Provide
The NHTD waiver offers many services that support safety and independence. According to the New York State Department of Health, services may include:
- Service Coordination
- Assistive Technology
- Community Integration Counseling
- Community Transitional Services
- Environmental Modifications
- Home and Community Support Services
- Independent Living Skills Training
- Nutritional Counseling
- Peer Mentoring
- Respite Services
- Structured Day Program Services
- Wellness Counseling
These services are meant to help people remain in the community instead of entering or staying in a nursing home.
Benefits of Choosing NHTD
For the right person, NHTD can offer important benefits:
More Independence
Participants may stay in their own home and maintain more control over their daily routine.
Personalized Support
Services are based on the person’s needs, goals, and preferences.
Community Living
Many people prefer to remain close to family, neighbors, and familiar surroundings.
Medicaid Coverage
Because NHTD is a Medicaid waiver program, it may reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible participants.
When a Nursing Home May Be the Better Fit
A traditional nursing home may be the better option if a person needs constant medical care, frequent monitoring, or a level of support that cannot be safely provided at home. Some people simply need a more structured care setting with staff available at all times.
How to Decide
The best choice depends on the person’s condition, safety, support system, and preferences. If someone can live safely in the community with services, NHTD may be a strong option. If they need ongoing medical supervision in a facility, a nursing home may be more appropriate.
If you need help understanding care options for a loved one, HouseCalls Home Care is here to help. Call 718-922-9200 or email info@HouseCallshc.org to learn more.
