Does Medicaid Pay for Assisted Living in Ohio?

It can, but not in the same straightforward way Medicaid pays for nursing home care. In Ohio, Medicaid coverage for assisted-living-level services is generally provided through a home and community-based services waiver program (PASSPORT and related programs) rather than automatically covering assisted living rent the way it covers a nursing facility stay. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and a determination that the applicant needs a nursing-facility level of care. Not every assisted living community participates in these waiver programs, so it's worth asking directly during a tour. See our full explanation of Medicaid and PASSPORT in Ohio for eligibility details.