captain_222 t1_jaafl4c wrote on February 28, 2023 at 12:38 AM

So when an elder is broke, isnt there nursing homes they can live at if they give up their ss , etc, provided by the state?

briinde OP t1_jaafzez wrote on February 28, 2023 at 12:41 AM

He’s probably right on the borderline of qualifying for Medicaid due to his recurring social security payments.

captain_222 t1_jaahdnt wrote on February 28, 2023 at 12:51 AM

I don't understand. So if you get too much in Ss, you can't qualify for Medicare? And Medicaid will pay for a nursing home?

briinde OP t1_jaahoh8 wrote on February 28, 2023 at 12:53 AM

Yes if you are in poverty Medicaid will pay for a nursing home. If you have a lot of money you can pay cash for a nursing home.

If you’re somewhere between pretty well off and dirt poor, you are in no man’s land and probably can’t get into a nursing home.

Jimmytowne t1_jab3s1j wrote on February 28, 2023 at 3:39 AM

There are very few if any nursing homes in NJ that accept Medicaid. And those that do, have a waiting list longer than most people alive. And if you find one that accepts everyone on Medicaid (state facility), it will be poorly run and basically an adult prison. Bugs, bed sores, screaming souls. That type of environment.

Average run of the mill nursing home in NJ is $8-10k/month out of pocket. People sell their homes and use that for their care. If you are on a life plan, when your money runs out they will allow you to stay. Typically you’ve spent $300k-$1M before then.

Aging in home is expensive too. A home health aide runs about 10k a month for a live in caregiver. $20k a month if you are getting up in the middle of the night.

briinde OP t1_jab5uen wrote on February 28, 2023 at 3:57 AM

Ok given that my father has no assets, has income of $2400 a month, and even if he qualifies for Medicaid it seems unlikely we’d find a place…

What are some viable options?

Jimmytowne t1_jab6miw wrote on February 28, 2023 at 4:04 AM

Start with an elder care attorney. They can put you in touch with the resources and community outreach you need. He may qualify for SNAP, section 8, senior public housing, and a road map for state guardianship. It’s difficult because he has living relatives, so you should seek legal advice. It’s less of a headache to align yourself with the professionals that can navigate the system. Reddit answers will be piecemeal at best.

Good luck