How does one pay for a nursing home when all a parent has is social security?

If a person has more assets than Medicaid allows, the person is expected to use those assets for his own needs. The applicant can own one house and one car. When the assets are used up then he will qualify for Medicaid.

Usually SS income isn't over the income limit, but if it is some states have programs that deal with this.

An Elder Law attorney can help with the details of qualifying for Medicaid.

What if they don't qualify for Medicaid

Generally the parent applies for Medicaid.