It was mentioned that Medicare will pay once assets have been expended, but I think it's actually Medicaid that does that. And yes, there is a 5 year look-back period. I think to qualify you can have no more than $2,000. I also think they do allow you to have your home and one vehicle, but I may be completely wrong on that. It's been years since I looked into it.
He's right that it’s Medicaid if you go into a Medicaid nursing facility. Usually Can’t touch primary residence but each state has own Medicaid program and rules. There is a look back period on assets. It would take a huge post to explain everything and it gets complicated. This is why folks with a partnership long term care plan make out well because you acted proactively for your elder care which allows you to protect more assets. The states will give you credit if you have a partnership LTC plan. Both FL and AL are partnership states. That being said LTC Partnership plans are best purchased early in life (50s at latest) because they are expensive. All have elimination periods (usually 90 days but varies) where you are responsible for care or paying for care before benefits kick in.
I would also suggest checking to see if she has a life insurance policy because it could have a long term care rider (living benefits) that might offer you some limited long term care benefits. She might have one that you’re not aware of. If she’s having problems with activities of daily living it’s usually 2 of 6 before any benefits would kick in. Some of those riders allow use for long term care including home health care but usually require doctor to certify person can’t do 2 of 6 activities of daily living or cognitive impairments. These include bathing, dressing, toileting, continence, eating and transferring.
As far as Medicare and what it will cover I suggest you look at this link:
https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/home-health-servicesUnderstand that it’s usually goes along with some need for skilled nursing care or other therapy like occupational. It’s limited but get her evaluated if there is a cognitive impairment or ADL issue, it may come into play.
Hope this helps a little and prayers for you and your mom. 🙏
