No matter where you live in the US, when it comes to elderly care or finding a good, affordable assisted living facility or community, the process can be overwhelming. It’s worse when you have limited personal funds.
The good news is with proper guidance, there may be resources available to you and your family to help curtail the cost of assisted living in Palos Verdes.
Medicare
Everyone in the United States is eligible to receive Medicare upon turning 65. Some people may already be using Medicare benefits if they are physically or mentally unable to work, but the coverage is limited, and it is more appropriate to use Medicare for short-term medical coverage and assistance. Lab tests, hospital stays, and x-rays must still be paid for either out-of-pocket or via private insurance.
Medicare does not pay for assisted living care, long-term care at a nursing home, residential care homes, or any long-term medical care that may be necessary.
For more detailed information regarding Medicare, please visit: http://www.medicare.gov.
Medicaid
Medicaid is the US government-subsidized program that is designed for people who cannot afford private insurance or who cannot afford to pay for their medical care entirely out-of-pocket. It is also referred to as “the medical safety net for seniors.” It is best for long-term care, and is operated via the US government and individual states.
In order to be eligible for Medicaid, a patient must reside in the state where they are receiving benefits, and they must show financial need. This is especially true if their medical care costs more than their income, or if a bulk of their finances are being used to treat a long-term medical condition. Medicaid can be used to help pay for assisted living facilities or long-term nursing care, whether within the home or a nursing facility.
Contact an elderly care lawyer to discuss your needs, as well as how to best use Medicaid, if necessary, to help pay for long-term care. Visit medicare.gov or cms.hhs.gov so you can investigate all options available to you.
Veterans’ Benefits And Assistance Programs
If your elderly loved one is a veteran who is 65 or older and they served in the military during wartime (but not necessarily in combat), they may be eligible for veterans’ medical benefits and assistance programs. Spouses or surviving spouses may be eligible for benefits as well.
There are three types of benefits for veterans: a basic pension, housebound benefits, and aid and attendance benefits. Call your local American Legion, VFW, or 877-222-VETS for more information and assistance.
Medi-Cal
If you are a resident of California and you or your elderly relative qualify for Medicaid, you may also request information regarding Medi-Cal, which is California’s Medicaid assistance program.
There are four different programs within this system:
the Assisted Living Waiver Program, the Multipurpose Senior Services Program, the Home and Community-Based Alternatives Waiver, and the Adult Day Health Care Program.
All four of these programs may be able to assist you and your elderly relative regarding assisted living facilities, nursing home assistance, and payment plans and options. California also offers options for those who may not qualify for Medicaid, but who still may need help.
Contact a potential plan provider at www.medi-cal.ca.gov for assistance and additional information.
Don’t let limited finances prevent you from looking for assisted living for your elderly loved one. Taking the time to look into the resources mentioned above will help you find a solution that works for you.
Disclaimer: Please note we are not experts in this area. The article has been put together using the information we have garnered from reliable sources. You must consult with financial experts for more information and professional advice.
