What happens if you can't afford AL anymore?

mpang123

My Mom is so worried that she cannot afford to keep my Dad in AL. What happens to people who cannot afford to place their LO in facilities but can't take care of them themselves? Is going on Medicaid the only option? What if they don't qualify for Medicaid?

harshedbuzz

This is a very state-specific question for an elder law attorney.

Sometimes trusts can be established to qualify, sometimes assets over a certain threshold must be liquidated and used before Medicaid pays.

A few religiously-affiliated places have benevolent funding to assist their long-time residents who have outlived their assets.

HB

mpang123

I talked to elder law and I need to provide them with all my parent's finances. I have all the info but I worry my Mom will not be happy that I sought an attorney. Should I wait until I become POA so I can proceed? It's complicated since both parents have different levels of dementia. My mother is still cognizant enough to live alone and handle her finances. I just have permission to access her accounts online. I see her 4 days a week and I take her to see my dad in AL and take her to places of business. A lot has been accomplished since late last year. My sister convinced my mom to place my dad in AL even though Mom is worried about the costs. She gave me her car and I drive her everywhere. Mom trusts me with overseeing her bank accounts. I am appointed POA but it is a springing DPOA. I'm trying to find out how to proceed to get Medicaid for my parents when the time comes.

mpang123

Thank you Victoria. It is a big, risky situation I'm in. I don't want to upset my Mom but it has to be done at some time soon. Wish I'm not so passive. My sister is assertive but my mom don't want her involved. My sister is the one that convinced my mom to place my dad. I have been reluctant to make it happen but I'm glad it did. I hope seeing elder law will get finances arranged and allow me to gain some assets without jeopardizing my disability benefits. Lots to do still.