What type of assistance can I get for my mom if all she has is Social Security? Home care is what she would prefer, but I can't afford that.

Completely understand! My Mom is 84 and has been in Long Term Care Nursing Facility for 2 months after a fall AND Covid. Has many other medical, physical and emotional issues. Medicare paid for her rehab and initial stay but now she was just approved for Medicaid which will pay for her nursing care stay (she contributes most of her SS check.) My advice is to contact the Area Agency for Aging in your county for local social services (e.g. Meals on Wheels, visiting aides, etc.) and to help you apply for Medicaid (there is more than 1 type). My Mom only has social security as well, no assets, etc. and I was doing long distance caregiving (paying bills, cleaning her apt., setting up appts., etc.) and also got help from nearby cousin and neighbors. I am still involved with her medical personnel, social services, etc. but now I feel some comfort knowing she is receiving the best hands-on care in a 24/7 safe environment.

Ps if you are in providence Rhode island then PACE is in your state please check it out. Good luck

The best thing I ever did was enroll my mother in PACE. This is offered in most states but can be called something else but it’s an all inclusive care for elderly. I can’t express how much our lives changed. Medication delivered in bubble packs or bottles if you fill a pill box. Doctor, nurse, PT and podiatrist come to the home to treat patients or examine if sick etc. transportation to doctor appts if you go out. Free adult diapers and home care person as well. However if you chose to be the home caregiver they will pay a family member (but you can have someone come in). This program is open to all but if your mom qualifies for Medicaid or State health insurance you should be 100% covered. Also best part is if they go to hospital or rehab the doctor can see them in those facilities contracted with PACE. Thus has been a good send during Covid as we can’t see my mom in hospital/rehab but her doctor can!!! It’s an amazing program that doesn’t get much attention but please look into it. There is a bunch of paperwork but once you are in it’s easy and such an amazing supportive program. There is geriatric doctors who take over as parents Primary care physician. It’s made all the difference in the world. Good luck

Has she applied for medicaid? If she’s under the income limit, she may qualify for a caregiver through Medicaid but she has to qualify both medically and financially. Oregon’s program is self-directed so you can hire the caregiver yourself & a family member can be the caregiver.