Glossary
Medi-Cal
Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program, the joint state and federal health coverage for people with limited income and assets, and the payer of last resort for long-term care.
Medi-Cal pays for nursing home care for eligible residents and, through the Assisted Living Waiver, for assisted living care in enrolled communities. It does not pay assisted living room and board.
Related terms
Assisted Living Waiver
The Assisted Living Waiver (ALW) is a California Medi-Cal program that pays for assisted living care for eligible Medi-Cal members who would otherwise qualify for nursing-home care, in communities enrolled in the program.
Medicare
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and over; it covers hospital and medical care and short-term skilled nursing or home health, but not assisted living, memory care, or long-term custodial care.
IHSS
IHSS, In-Home Supportive Services, is a California Medi-Cal program that pays for in-home care hours for eligible low-income older adults and people with disabilities so they can stay at home.
Definitions reviewed September 5, 2026. Rules vary by state and change over time; confirm specifics with the community and the licensing agency.