New to Alzheimer's

JimmyLondon39 · November 15

Hello all thank you for providing a network of caregivers to help guide others through this horrible disease. My grandfather was officially diagnosed over a year ago with Alzheimer's. I am his MPOA and am new to all of this. I am just wondering if anyone has any advice on the following.

He has UHC Medicare Advantage and I have read that it is best for the future he be on traditional Medicare with Part D and a supplemental plan. I am just a little overwhelmed in trying to find info on how to go about that or even if it is an option.

Also, a pallative care agency has came out and evaluated him and agreed to provide pallative treatment with monthly NP visits and a weekly nurse visit. My concern before signing anything is there a chance that his assests could be accessed in the future. Especially, when he passes away and my grandmother is still alive. I have heard a few rumblings about being careful what you allow them to have access to financially.

Also I am trying to access some kind of care coordinator to assist with his care and it seems hard to find. I have called the Texas Health and Human Services dept and left messages with Medicare and cannot get in contact with anyone. And I work in healthcare and I am shocked how hard it is on the patient side.

My grandfather is 86 and declining. I am aware Hospice is not far away. His primary caregiver is my 84 yr old grandmother, their daughter and myself. We have a little bit of assistance from family members. However, I know getting a home health aid will be near impossible without a significant amount of personal funding. But I am open to any suggestions and advice from those who have more experience and expertise. Any information is helpful and fully appreciated.

Robert1320 · November 15

Your local Council on Aging can provide information consistent with State law, and with awareness of local resources.

Many are staffed by volunteers who are knowledgeable, but busy helping others,so be patient with them.

Robert1320 · November 15

Try ncoa.org . The National Council on Aging website.

JulietteBee · November 16

October 15-December 7th is open enrollment. If you plan to leave UHC, now is the time to do your comparison shopping. Going the route of original Medicare, with a supplement, may not work out cheaper. A host of these Medicare Advantage plans do not charge monthly premiums. Keep in mind, a supplement will come with a monthly invoice.

Please elaborate the following. I do not know who the "Them" are, to which your question is directed.

"My concern before signing anything is there a chance that his assests could be accessed in the future. Especially, when he passes away and my grandmother is still alive. I have heard a few rumblings about being careful what you allow them to have access to financially."

SDianeL · November 16

Welcome. Sorry about your Grandfather. My Step-Dad had a stroke last November and he has a Medicare Advantage plan and it has been great. I didn’t see any reason to move him to traditional Medicare. I have traditional Medicare with no supplemental. Medicare has a maximum out of pocket cap yearly. I think it’s going up in 2026 but you can go to the Medicare website and see what it will be. Then compare that to the supplemental premiums. It might be better just to make sure he has enough money in the bank to pay the out of pocket costs. Neither Medicare or Medicare Advantage will pay for long term care for dementia in a memory care facility. If he needs skilled nursing care and is in a nursing home they will only pay for the medical care not custodial care. Have you talked to his doctor about a social worker or case manager? Is your Grandfather a veteran? I would speak with an Elder Care Attorney about long term care and protecting their assets. They know the state laws and can explain Medicaid rules for your state. I suggest reading the book “The 36 Hour Day” which is recommended by a nurse.

ARIL · November 16

Hi, I am so sorry about your grandfather’s situation. As you know, there are a lot of moving parts here. You said you have medical power of attorney. Who has financial POA?

I agree with others that an elder law attorney could help get legal matters sorted. As far as home health and palliative care go, have you spoken with your grandfather’s PCP? A trusted doctor can help you better understand the care options. (That was what worked for me.) You mention worry because of things you have heard, but the source of this information is not clear. Who are you talking to about the specifics of the situation?

Others are right that this is the open enrollment period for Medicare. You may or may not need to switch.

When I became my father’s POA, he had UHC Medicare Advantage. He still does. It has been OK for his situation, although as others note, Medicare does not pay for long-term residential memory care.

I wish you well. It’s a lot, as everyone here knows. You are among friends.

New to Alzheimer's

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