The New Choices Waiver has been a game-changer for many Utah families who want quality residential assisted living but worried about cost. At Holladay Home, we’ve seen firsthand how this program opens the door to our small, 15-resident home in Holladay for seniors and families who thought larger facilities or staying home alone were their only options.
Here are a few real (anonymized) stories from Salt Lake Valley families who found the perfect fit with us thanks to the New Choices Waiver.
Story 1: Margaret’s Daughter – “We Thought It Was Out of Reach” Margaret’s daughter, Lisa, was caring for her mom at home while working full-time. As Margaret’s needs increased (help with bathing, medications, and mobility), Lisa felt exhausted and worried about safety. She researched assisted living but assumed the monthly cost was too high on a fixed income.
After a tour and conversation with us, Lisa learned Margaret qualified for the New Choices Waiver. The waiver covered most of the personal care and a significant portion of room and board. Margaret’s Social Security covered the rest—no extra family contribution needed.
Today, Margaret enjoys home-cooked meals, daily chats with friends around the table, and peace of mind knowing help is always close. Lisa says, “Mom smiles more than she has in years, and I finally sleep at night. The waiver made Holladay Home possible when we thought it wasn’t.”
Story 2: Robert’s Son – From Home Isolation to Community Robert, a widower in his late 80s, was living alone in West Jordan. His son noticed increasing forgetfulness with medications and weight loss from skipped meals. Robert resisted moving, fearing he’d lose independence in a “big place.”
We showed them Holladay Home’s cozy setup—private rooms, family-style dining, and flexible routines. The New Choices Waiver covered his care services and part of the monthly rate. His Social Security handled the balance comfortably.
Robert now joins card games, enjoys our fresh-baked rolls, and has made close friends among the 15 residents. His son shares, “Dad’s more engaged and healthier than he’s been in years. The waiver let us choose a real home environment instead of a big facility.”
Story 3: The Thompson Family – Peace of Mind on a Budget The Thompsons were caring for their mom, Evelyn, who needed help with daily tasks but wanted to stay in a small, familiar setting. They toured several places but loved Holladay Home’s warmth and personal attention. Cost was the concern—until we explained the New Choices Waiver.
After approval, the waiver significantly reduced the monthly amount. Evelyn’s Social Security covered what remained, so the family paid nothing extra out-of-pocket. Evelyn settled into her private room, enjoys music afternoons, and feels safe and valued.
Her daughter says, “We were so relieved. The waiver meant Mom could have compassionate care in a true home without draining savings or stressing the family budget.”
These stories are common at Holladay Home. The New Choices Waiver, combined with residents’ Social Security or other fixed income, often makes our assisted living affordable for middle-income families who qualify. It allows seniors to age in a warm, intimate environment with personalized support, home-cooked meals, and real community—exactly what many Utah families want.
If you’re wondering whether the New Choices Waiver could help your loved one move to a place like ours, we’d love to talk.
Let’s see if the New Choices Waiver is right for your family Schedule a relaxed, no-pressure tour of Holladay Home Assisted Living at 5950 S Highland Drive in Holladay, UT. Call (801) 277-8371 or email holladayhome1@gmail.com. Visit holladayhome.com today—because great care shouldn’t be out of reach, and the right waiver can make all the difference.
