Critical factors in long-term care for senior citizens

Many Georgia residents are beyond age 65 and are currently residing in nursing homes. Long-term care planning is of paramount importance to most senior citizens and their families. While many people consider Medicare a great asset that helps provide for the aging, most are unaware of how crucial Medicaid can be to secure long-term care for millions of seniors and pre-retirees as well. 

Many elders rely on Medicaid to cover their Medicare expenses, such as premiums, out-of-pocket prescription costs and co-pays. Medicare is limited as to what type of assisted living care it covers. In fact, it generally only covers skilled nursing services. Any senior or adult child faced with long-term care or nursing home expenses understands how financially burdensome it can be.  

One year in a nursing home typically costs around $82,000. Many seniors lack options to meet the expense. The good news is that Medicaid often covers nursing home costs and other long-term care services. Current data shows that more than 60 percent of elderly nursing home residents use Medicaid as their primary source for payments.  

The average Georgia resident stands a 70 percent chance of needing nursing home care beyond age 65. Senior citizens wishing to explore their Medicaid options may reach out for support to help them execute a long-term care plan that best fits their needs. Those planning to retire may be glad to know that more than 30 states have made Medicaid available to many people under age 65. An experienced elder law attorney can provide guidance and support to anyone facing legal problems regarding Medicaid, Medicare or other long-term care issues. 

Source: fool.com, “3 Big Ways Medicaid Helps Seniors“, Christy Bieber, April 14, 2018

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Kevin Tharpe

With 25 years of experience, Kevin understands how estate planning, special needs planning, and government benefits programs work together. This is a crucial element of a thorough plan. He explains your eligibility for benefits programs and ensures that you do not make costly mistakes that may disqualify you or deplete your assets.

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