I am in a position of starting to think about moving my wife (83) to a nursing home. Anyone have experience with this dilemma?

When my mother entered a NH the business manager helped us tremendously with paperwork and advice. When long term policy and private pay available funds were close to running out (took way less time than anyone would think) the business manager walked us through the Medicaid process, no charge. Start visiting places and getting a feel for the best situation, be sure to ask about a person on site who can help guide you. I wish you both peace, I know it’s so very hard to see this through

A Medicaid Planner is maybe who you should consult. Medicaid rules can differ by state so your most accurate consult with come from a professional local to you.

If you have few assets than no need for an attorney. At this point assets can't be protected anyway. What would have happened is that as a Community spouse what assets you have are split. This u need a lawyer for. Your wifes split would go to her care, when almost gone Medicaid is applied for.

With my Mom she had 20k plus her SS and a small pension. In April I started the application for Medicaid. My State gives u 90 days to spendown any assets to the cap allowed by ur state. Mine is 2k. To get info requested. And to get the recipient placed. Mom paid May and June privately which spent her down. In June I confirmed the caseworker had everything he needed and Medicaid started July 1st.

With my GFs parents, they had their monthly income plus 60k in the bank. No other assets. The 60k was split and the husbands split went towards his care. The wife stayed in the home and had a car.

You will get enough of your monthly income of SS and pension to live on. Maybe all of it. Call your Office of Aging and see if there is someone who can help you with the process. Maybe see a Medicaid caseworker. For both, you will need to give them info on any assets you may have.