Medicaid

If you or your loved one doesn't have much in terms of savings or financial assets and your income is low, you may qualify for Medicaid, which can help pay for assisted living. A quick, free, and non-binding Medicaid eligibility test is available. Go to https://medicaid.alabama.gov/content/3.0_Apply/3.2_Qualifying.aspx  for more information. Medicaid eligibility varies by state, but typically, it requires the recipient to have less than $2,000 in assets beyond the home and car to qualify.

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Only some assisted living communities and home care agencies will accept Medicaid, and Medicaid beds are usually limited. To find long-term residential care options near you, check with your local Area Agency for Aging. To help you navigate the maze of signing up for the public benefits, you can also call for a free consultation from a Government Health Insurance Counselor here:  https://www.shiphelp.org/

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While Medicaid can help with the cost of assisted living, neither Medicare Part A, Part B, or Part C covers residents in assisted living. For any Medicare plan to provide any kind of care coverage, the care must meet basic requirements:

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• The care must be "medically  necessary," meaning it must be ordered or prescribed by a licensed physician or other authorized medical provider

• The care must be performed or delivered by a healthcare provider who participates in Medicare

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Your next step will be finding the facilities that accept Medicaid.

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If you're doing your own research, some states do offer a provider list or a searchable directory, but these can be hard to find online. You can also talk to an expert at your local area agency on aging to ask any questions about Medicaid or assisted living facilities in your area. Case managers can assess your needs, work with you on financial planning, and help you put together a care plan that fits your medical needs.

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Disclaimer: The Parkinson Association of Alabama provides education and awareness so that you may discern your own planning. Our information is never intended to be guidance or replace that of a financial advisor or expert. We simply want to provide enough information as a conversation starter as you work with your respected financial advisors to map out your financial budgeting plans for community living. The PAA cannot be held liable for any financial decisions you make regarding your own planning.

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Sources: The Davis Phinney Foundation. Chapter 15 - Long-term Care and Financial Planning. Every Victory Counts. Page 249. "Manual." Sixth Edition, 2021.

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