Senior Care: Medicaid
What Medicaid Pays for and What They Don’t
For many seniors, one of the biggest fears associated with aging is the potential cost of long-term care. With Medicaid, however, many options open up that might not have been available before. As long as the beneficiary meets the state's income and asset requirements, many Medicaid patients will find that they are able to choose from a variety of options for long-term care. Senior Planning Services, a leading Medicaid planning company that assists seniors with Medicaid eligibility would like to share some information that many families may find beneficial.
Nursing Homes
Nursing home care is an important asset for many seniors. When they need more care than they can receive at home or require round-the-clock medical care, many seniors find that it's more comfortable to live in a nursing home, where they'll receive the care they need. As long as a patient meets the income requirements for Institutional Medicaid and needs the level of care provided by a nursing home, Medicaid will cover the cost.
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities are designed to allow residents more freedom while still providing them with access to services when they need them. Assisted living facilities require residents to be somewhat more independent and able to complete most daily care tasks on their own, but will come in to help with more difficult problems or to offer needed medical services. Medicaid, as part of Community Medicaid, will help pay for this option, as well.
Retirement Communities
Retirement communities sound like an excellent option to many seniors who are watching their health and capability slowly decline. Many retirement communities have varying levels of care, from residences that are designed with complete independence in mind to residences for individuals requiring higher levels of care. Unfortunately, in most cases, retirement communities expect seniors to enter them before they physically require the additional care options, and Medicaid will not help pay for a retirement community until care is medically necessary.
Home Care
There's nothing quite like the comfort of home, and for many seniors, in-home care is the ideal solution when they require help to complete daily tasks like dressing, cooking, and bathing. Medicaid will help cover in-home care for individuals who would otherwise qualify for nursing home services.
Adult Day Care
Dropping off the kids for the day so that their parents can work is normal for many working families, but dropping off mom? For many seniors, adult day care is an excellent compromise between remaining at home as long as possible and receiving the additional services necessary to maintain quality of life as their health deteriorates. During the day, seniors are watched over by caring, qualified professionals who can provide some medical services as needed. They're able to interact with other seniors, get out of the house, and participate in a variety of activities. Then, at the end of the day, they're able to return to the comfort of their own homes and the care of their loved ones. This is another service that is covered by Medicaid, and one that has made it possible for many seniors to remain in their homes longer.
Understanding the options for long-term care can seem difficult to many seniors and their family members, but it's not as hard as it appears! In many cases, Medicaid will provide all the services that are necessary in order for a senior to age with dignity. Taking the time to know your options and develop a plan for long-term care can make it easier when that day comes.
For assistance finding senior housing or services in your area, please speak to one of our Senior Housing Specialists at (888) WE-ASSIST or start your search online at AlternativesforSeniors.com
BLOG Date: Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Guest Blogger: Benny Lamm, Senior Planning Services