Help with deciding next step with mom

emlarsen1207

My mom has had ALZ since 2017 and is now in the later stages; not bed ridden yet but now a fall risk, unable to speak in full sentences and very agitated, and needs to move to skilled nursing.

This will move her to Medicaid and I need a resource with knowledge of Pennsylvania and Maryland law because my sister and I can’t decide which makes better financial sense for her long term care.

She’s going to run out of assets this year if she keeps living in the assisted living facility where she’s currently at (that doesn’t do skilled nursing) so we probably need a lawyer.

Any suggestions? I’m totally lost.

SusanB-dil

Hi emlarsen1207 - welcome to 'here', but sorry for the reason.

You can check 'NELF' (national elder law foundation) for a CELA (certified elder lawyer) for your state. Agree that a lawyer would be best able to steer you in the right direction.

nelf.org

harshedbuzz

I would try to find a CELA licensed in both states to compare the specifics of your situation.

In some states, Medicaid will fund a semiprivate bed in a MCF, but I know PA is not one of them. That said, while most MCFs allow a PWD to age-in-place (a nicer way of saying die there), most expect a certain level of ambulation for acceptance so that is likely moot if she's falling.

If she'll be entering on Medicaid, you may have limited options and wait lists as the number of Medicaid beds is often limited and those already living there who have spend down will get preference. I would start touring in both locations as that might be what ultimately informs your choice.

HB