LONG-TERM CARE
Planning Ahead Will Help Protect Your Assets
LONG TERM CARE
Long-term care is a growing concern for many because some statistics show that 50% of seniors over the age of 65 will need skilled nursing care (nursing home level care) in their lifetime.
In Vermont in 2018, the cost of Nursing Home Care can be as high as $12,000.00 per month or over $120,000 per year. The average stay in a nursing varies but can be lengthy in cases of some progressive diseases like dementia/Alzheimer's.
Many people ask Elder Law attorneys how they can afford the high cost of tong term care without losing everything they own. Planning for those costs are sensible and wise.There are four choices for paying for skilled nursing care.
LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE
Long-Term Care Insurance is a great resource to have as many policies have the option of paying for in-home care. However, one must buy the insurance before he or she needs it.
MEDICARE
Medicare along with your supplement may pay for up to 100 days of coverage in a skilled nursing care facility, as long as the individual continues to improve. If the condition plateaus or declines, Medicare can stop payment within one week.
MEDICAID
Medicaid is a means-based federal and state program that will pay for your stay in a nursing home. In order to qualify the individual must meet strict asset and income guidelines. The rules of Medicaid are complex. Additionally, assets that are "exempt" for Medicaid qualification may be subject to a Medicaid recovery lien upon the individual's death.
PRIVATE PAY
You can pay from your own resources.