We are waiting to hear from Medicaid whether they will pay for my mom in a nursing home. She has Alzheimer's. No one in the family can afford it. I can't really take her as my home would not be safe, for one thing, as she has fallen several times and I have stairs to the bedrooms in my home. I would also have to quit working and I don't think I would do well mentally and emotionally within a short time. My siblings act like it is my problem only, as I am POA. I don't know what to do and her nursing home bill is almost $10,000 a month. Does anyone have any advise?
If she has no money at all other than Social Security, the chances of her getting Medicaid help are good, but the waiting period is challenging. Each state is different, so you need to ask your contact at the Medicaid office where the application is being processed what you are to do in the meantime. It's likely that her home could be used as collateral. You may want to talk with an elder law attorney who knows your state Medicaid rules well.
Good luck,
Carol
It has been one unpleasant surprise after another in this situation. A lawyer I contacted charged $350 for the first phone call ( as I live out of state from my mom) !
After that, something like $300 per hour. I don't know what the average American is going to do as baby boomers age and we struggle more and more to take care of our elderly. The cost for care is out of reach for most of us. We all need to start inundating our representatives with phone calls and letters about these concerns.
If it happens that this NH does Not accept Medicaid, start looking for one that does immediately!
When I was investigating putting her on MediCal (CAMedicaid) I learned that some states are using an old law to collect the costs to the state after the recipient dies- called estate recovery under filial law. Be very careful if you are the DPOA and seek advice for your protection. There are articles on the Internet of adult children being served with $50,000 and up bills. Look up filial law.
In my case I will make the state go after my sibling if I have to put my mom on mediCal.
I wish everyone the best. Being a full time caregiver and holding down a job is rough. Don't take on more than you can do. Reach out for help. Call your county's Council on Aging for assistance. Like the person above said, speak to an a ombudsman. There are requirements that need to be met physically to qualify fir SNF.
I know we all want the best fAOR our parents, but be careful about dipping into your own funds that you will need one day. Check out small board and cares around you. They are better environments than nursing homes.
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