Medicaid is one of the most widely used types of health insurance in the U.S. It is a state-sponsored type of health insurance, similar to Medicare, but rather than focusing on the elderly and people with disabilities, Medicaid is geared toward helping people with lower incomes still ensure that they have access to the health care and medical attention that they need.
In California, Medicaid is often referred to as Medi-Cal. Medi-Cal–because it is a state run insurance program–can come with restrictions. Sometimes, this can be prohibitive to acquiring the quality of care that is needed. But in a lot of cases, it doesn’t need to be. Knowing what resources are available and how they may benefit you and your family is important if you are going to get the most out of any Medicaid program.
Not everyone is eligible for the use of Medicaid. There is an application and income verification process that you must go through with your local Social Services. However, for those that qualify, this can be a smart way to lower the cost of care.
In-home care has become increasingly popular throughout the United States. Some of this is because of the social benefits and convenience that comes along with this type of care. In-home care allows a senior to stay in their home, so moving is eliminated as a hassle. And, because they are in the same location as they have been, it’s easier for them to maintain the relationships with family and friends that they have always had. In-home care allows for minimal deviation away from the life that they have been living. If anything, this care can make life even better because of the extra support and attention that is provided.
However, these are not the only reasons why In-home care has become more widely used. Some of this stems from the fact that it is more cost effective than a lot of other types of care. With a nursing home, you are often paying for a lot more care and supervision than what is needed. But because it has long been the go-to choice for people looking to help an older family member, it is more heavily used than it probably should be.
I know that senior care can be confusing, but the fact that so many states are now covering in-home care with Medicaid dollars is definitely a good thing. It might add another choice to an already long list of what you and your family are trying to sort through, but more choices means that you’re more likely to find what’s ideal for your family.
And don’t forget that you have resources to help you. You don’t need to make these kinds of choices on your own. We are just one of the many places out there that you can turn to for help. So, if you are overwhelmed, please feel free to reach out. One of our professional caregivers would be pleased to help you walk through your choices and determine what’s in your family’s best interests.
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