When someone in your family needs to move into a nursing home, it can feel overwhelming. You’re worried about your loved one’s health, and on top of that, you suddenly have to deal with the high costs of care. If you’re feeling stressed and unsure about what to do next, you’re not alone. Many families face this challenge, and there is help available.
First, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: money. Nursing home care is expensive. Really expensive. For many families, the cost comes as a shock. Even if you’ve saved for retirement, you might not have planned for these kinds of expenses. This is especially true if there is a spouse remaining at home whose expenses have not changed. It’s common to feel like you’re not prepared for this.
The good news is that there are ways to get help paying for nursing home care. One of the most important programs is Medicaid. Medicaid can cover a large part of nursing home costs for people who qualify. But here’s the tricky part: figuring out if you qualify and how to apply can be complicated.
Medicaid has rules about how much money and property you can have and still get help. These rules can be confusing, and they’re different for single people and married couples. You might have heard that you need to spend all your money before you can get help. That’s not always true. There are legal ways to protect some of your assets and still qualify for Medicaid.
This is where an elder law attorney like me comes in. Our expertise means we know how to look at your family’s situation and figure out the best way to apply for benefits. Sometimes, there are strategies we can use to help you become eligible for Medicaid faster, while still protecting some of your savings.
Our job is to be your guide on this journey, explaining your options in plain English, without all the legal jargon. Together, we can make a plan that works for your whole family. This might include things like setting up a trust, looking at how your property is owned, or making sure your spouse at home has enough to live on.
Remember, every family’s situation is different. What worked for your neighbor or your cousin might not be the best plan for you. That’s why it’s important to get advice that’s tailored to your specific needs.
Going through this process can be stressful, but you don’t have to do it alone. With the right help, you can navigate the system and find the best way to care for your loved one without losing everything you’ve worked for. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. The sooner you start planning, the more options you’ll have.
