Category Archives: Medicaid/Long-Term Care/Asset Protection
Healthy Aging Month: Planning for Independence, Dignity and the Future
Growing older is a natural part of life, but how we prepare for the years ahead can make a meaningful difference in our independence, security, and quality of life. Every September, Healthy Aging Month encourages adults to look at aging from a positive and proactive perspective. While conversations about healthy aging often focus on… Read More »
Medicaid Strategies: Income-Producing Rental Properties
For many Florida seniors, rental real estate represents an important source of financial security. A rental home, condominium, or other income-producing property may provide monthly income that helps pay for living expenses and supports a comfortable retirement. But when long-term care becomes necessary, owning rental property can raise complicated Medicaid planning questions. Can a… Read More »
World Alzheimer’s Month: Why Awareness and Early Planning Matter
Every September, organizations, families, caregivers, and advocates around the world recognize World Alzheimer’s Month, a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, challenging stigma, and encouraging conversations about diagnosis, care, and support. For families affected by Alzheimer’s disease, those conversations can also extend beyond medical care. A… Read More »
Medicaid Strategies: Personal Services Contracts
For many Florida families, caring for an aging parent begins long before nursing home care becomes necessary. Adult children often spend months or even years helping with grocery shopping, transportation, medication management, meal preparation, housekeeping, and personal care. While these services are frequently provided out of love, they also represent real work that would… Read More »
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day: How Planning Ahead Can Help Protect Loved Ones
Each year on June 15, communities around the world recognize World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges many older adults face, including physical, emotional, and financial abuse. While elder abuse is often associated with neglect or mistreatment, financial exploitation is one of the most common forms of… Read More »
Preparing for the Future: Legal Planning After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis
June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Local organizations such as Alzheimer’s Community Care work year-round to provide education, support services, and resources for individuals and families affected by memory disorders. For those looking to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease,… Read More »
Does Medicaid Cover Long-Term Care in High-Quality Nursing Homes?
When families begin exploring long-term care options, one of the biggest concerns is cost. Another is quality. Many people assume that if they rely on Medicaid to pay for nursing home care, they will be limited to lower-quality facilities that accept Medicaid. That belief is not only misleading; it can prevent families from pursuing… Read More »
Ethical Issues In Medicaid Planning
Medicaid planning often raises difficult questions for families. Many people assume that qualifying for Medicaid means “giving everything away” or “hiding assets.” Others worry that planning to preserve assets while receiving government benefits may be improper or unethical. These misconceptions can prevent families from seeking help when they need it most. The truth is… Read More »
How to Pay for Nursing Home & Other Long Term Care
Understanding Medicaid and Long-Term Care Costs Many people believe they must spend all their savings or have long-term care insurance to afford nursing home or assisted living care. Fortunately, Medicaid—a joint federal and state program—can cover these costs after certain requirements are met. With proper planning, you do not have to deplete your life… Read More »
The Qualified Income Trust
The Problem Florida enforces an income cap for Medicaid eligibility when it comes to institutional care, such as long-term custodial nursing home care. This cap is set by Florida Statutes Section 409.904 and is typically three times the SSI limit. For example, in 2000, the income cap was $1,536 per month. However, the average… Read More »