How To Apply for Medicaid for Senior Living

When it’s time for a loved one to move into an assisted living community, there are a lot of things to consider. One huge hurdle that families struggle with is how to cover the cost of moving their loved one into an assisted living community.

If your aging loved one doesn’t have the assets or savings to cover the continued cost of living at an assisted living community, the associated costs can be a bit of a sticker shock at first glance. Rest assured, there are ways you or your loved ones can afford to pay for living in an assisted living community without putting you and your family in debt. 

If you qualify for Medicaid, there are many senior living communities that accept funds from Medicaid that will welcome your aging loved one with open arms. 

If you or your loved one is looking to move into an assisted living community and would like to know more about how to apply for Medicaid for senior living, the assisted living community experts at BridgeWater Assisted Living list below how to apply for Medicaid.

Step 1: Determine Whether You Are Eligible for Medicaid

The Medicaid program was signed into law in 1965 and is the largest long-term care coverage assistance program provided by our government to those in need. It is a separate program from Medicare and is an additional medical coverage program for those who need financial assistance to cover the cost of long-term care such as living in an assisted living community.

Every US state has its own Medicaid program in place, and each has its own rules to determine those financially eligible for government assistance for long-term care. It’s important to look into your local Medicaid program in the state where you reside in order to accurately determine if you are eligible for Medicaid for senior living. 

Step 2: Collect Required Documentation for Your Application Process

Once you have determined you are eligible, the next step in the process is to fill out the Medicaid application. The Medicaid application process does require numerous documents from as far back as five years prior to the application date and gathering these required documents can take some time. Be sure to leave yourself enough time to collect the required documents prior to applying for Medicaid. You will need documents to show your financial history and current financial status in order to determine Medicaid eligibility.

Step 3: Submit Your Medicaid Application

Once you have obtained all necessary documentation for your Medicaid application, it is time to submit. Most states provide an online website where you can submit your application as well as a mail-in option or in-person option at your local Medicaid office. Response times can vary, but typically it will take two to three months to receive a determination letter. Submitting an online application typically yields faster response times. If you are denied, you may appeal the decision.If you reside in Arizona and are looking for a senior living community that accepts Medicaid, contact BridgeWater Assisted Living today. One of our community benefits advocates can even help you with the application process.