Most families pay for senior living from savings, a pension and the sale of a house. Many also qualify for help they have never heard of. These are the three we see most often, in plain language.
Wisconsin Family Care
Family Care is Wisconsin’s Medicaid long-term care program. For members who qualify medically and financially, it can pay for the care part of assisted living and memory care, and for the day program. It does not pay rent or meals. Start with the Aging and Disability Resource Center in your county. Approval often takes 60 to 90 days.
VA Aid and Attendance
Wartime veterans and their surviving spouses who need help with daily activities may qualify for a monthly pension increase. It can go toward any senior living cost, rent included. The application needs discharge papers and a doctor’s statement, and I can help prepare it.
Long-term care insurance
Most policies pay a daily amount once a doctor confirms that a person needs help with two daily activities, or has cognitive impairment. There is usually a waiting period of 30 to 90 days. We send the monthly care notes the insurance company asks for.
What Medicare does not do
Medicare pays for medical care, therapy and hospice, but never for rent, meals or personal care in senior living. Medicare Advantage plans follow the same rule.
Where to start
Book 20 minutes with me before you sell anything. Bring the last bank statement, any insurance policy, and discharge papers if there is a veteran in the family.
