Nothing reminds us about the importance of “home” like the holidays. While the vast majority of elders who need long-term care would prefer to live at home for as long as possible, many feel that they can’t afford in-home care. In this article I will discuss options for financial assistance from MassHealth to pay for in-home care in Massachusetts. Next time, I’ll discuss long-term care planning strategies that can make in-home care affordable for elders and their loved ones.
Although many folks are aware that MassHealth will cover the cost of nursing home care, it also offers assistance for home care and assisted living through a variety of programs. For example, the Personal Care Attendant Program will pay for a specified number of hours of personal care services each month, by someone you know and hire yourself (think friend, grandchild, etc.). The number of hours available depends on an elder’s particular needs. In addition, the Home Care Program provides in-home support services for older adults, people with disabilities, and people with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
Another option is MassHealth’s Frail Elder Waiver Program. Eligibility for these services depends on meeting certain income and asset requirements, which proper planning can help one achieve. In addition, an elder must show that without waiver services he or she would be forced to move to a nursing home. The Frail Elder Waiver can provide personal care services; laundry and housekeeping services; grocery shopping and delivered meals; home health and skilled nursing care; adult day programs; transportation; accessibility adaptations to a residence; and respite care.
Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is yet another option available through MassHealth. PACE provides all of the services described above, plus – importantly – it can coordinate all of a person’s medical care. PACE also pays for assisted living.
As you can see, MassHealth offers a variety of options to help elders live at home and receive the long-term care they need. (I haven’t even mentioned all of the services available!) As always, I’m here to help any and every way I can.
Until next time, take care…
If I have created a plan for you and you are happy with it, the best compliment you can give me is to recommend my firm to family and friends. As you know, everyone should have an estate plan.
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Another Great Event – Please Join Us!
On Monday, December 11th at 12 PM I’ll be making a presentation at The Current Weymouth, a new senior living community. A light lunch will be served. I hope you’re able to attend this free event. For more information and how to register, please see our newsletter.