Getting care for my father

Medicaid varies from state to state. In some states it will cover a nursing home or maybe some limited in home care. In other states it may only partially cover Al with family picking up the remainder or a very run down Al. Qualifications also vary by state. There is an asset limit to qualify. He can’t have more than $x (this number varies by state) amount of assets (home, investment, bank account etc). Spending money til he meets the asset requirements for Medicaid is called spending down. For example hiring a caregiver to come in while you are at work would definitely spend some money. This would eventually allow him to qualify for Medicaid when the time comes for a nursing home. In some states you can do a trust for prepaid funeral expenses. They will also check to make sure that he has not given money or other assets away in the last x number of years. This is the look back period and again I believe it varies by state. There are also medical requirements. He must need a certain level of care. If you are able to leave him home alone while you are at work this may mean he would not meet that requirement. There is nothing easy or simple about it. If he has not seen an elder law attorney, I would recommend you do that asap. In addition to being able to answer questions about Medicaid he should have a will, living will and should appoint a DPOA. Cost for the lawyer would be paid for by your dad. I’m definitely not an expert. Other members here please correct me if anything is incorrect. A google search for Medicaid requirements in your state will probably give you excessive details. You might also call your local commission on aging. They can give you information on various programs in your area that may be helpful.

in some states you can have both Medicare and Medicaid. Medicare does not pay for long term care. Medicaid does. Ditto on seeing an elder care attorney immediately.