3 Tips for Choosing Memory Care That Accepts Medicaid in 2021
The cascade of benefits from technological advances in health, medicine, and medical devices includes increases in comfort, quality of life, and longevity. As Americans age healthier and live longer, we’re seeing just how important memory care is becoming in our society.
Factor in our trend toward independent living, and it becomes very clear that memory care is an essential preventative step toward maintaining our autonomy.
According to the AARP, degenerative brain disease and dementia are on the rise across all 50 US states. Some additional details on projected rates for Alzheimer’s can be found in another AARP report. When it comes to treatment, there’s an assortment of options available, but memory care centers that accept Medicaid can be limited. Here are a few tips to get you on the right path.
1. Contact Medicaid
It’s vitally important to make certain that all your contact information, personal records, and medical coverage is up-to-date and accurate. Something as simple as a wrong address can interrupt coverage, and cause significant delays, which could then affect your care. Your Medicaid administrator can verify the memory care coverage benefit payout, and you can then shop for the ideal services based on your financial situation. Contact your state’s Medicaid administration for eligibility, coverage options, and applications. In Arizona, AHCCCS manages the Medicaid administration.
2. Create a List
Create a wish list of all memory care facilities that accept Medicaid, and then use your personal preferences on location, financial compatibility, and the type of memory care program available to narrow your selection. There are a number of websites available that compare features, costs, and rates for memory care facilities that accept Medicaid. Unfortunately, there isn’t exactly one single directory, so it may take some internet research and phone conversations. A Place for Mom and Senior Advisor are good sites with which to start your efforts.
3. Don’t Wait!
Finding a fitting memory care program will take time and a fair amount of effort. There are approximately 30,000 memory care facilities in the US, with a projected increase in demand as our population ages. Currently, individuals over 65 years old make up only 16.5 percent, but that figure is expected to rise to approximately 22 percent by 2050. This could translate to shortages of caregivers, and an increase in waiting lists. So it’s important to make a plan, to determine your specific and projected care needs, and to contact your memory care choices as soon as possible.
There are some really beautiful options available with features and amenities that might surprise you. Take a look at BridgeWater Assisted Living for an example of what is possible in memory care facilities that accept Medicaid.
There is a lot to consider when making choices about your future, but hopefully, these tips can point you in the right direction. Remember, procrastination can have a detrimental impact, so be proactive and ensure that you get the care you need when you need it.