Recent studies have shown that the impacts of people affected by dementia are far reaching. Approximately one half of nursing facility residents today and one in five seniors has possible or probable dementia. This disease, also recognized as Alzheimer’s, is a syndrome characterized by progressive and chronic decline in cognitive functions, such as judgement, communication and memory. People diagnosed with dementia will vary in terms of how it impacts their daily life but this progressive disease also means that symptoms will get worse over time. Paid care might be required as dementia increases.
Most people who do have dementia have Medicare but due to the lack of long term services and high out of pocket costs, low income individuals with disabilities associated with dementia might also need Medicaid, or Medi-Cal as known in California, to assist with the coverage gaps. Approximately one quarter of adults with dementia have Medicaid coverage over the course of a year.
Speaking with the team of doctors helping your loved one will give you a better sense of some of the key treatment and environment issues to think about when deciding on care. When a person with dementia needs outside help, a conversation with an elder law attorney can also be helpful for determining whether Medi-Cal is an option.
Nearly 95% of adults with dementia receive Medicaid benefits, but some might also qualify for Medicaid if they have limited assets and are classified as low income. To verify whether or not this applies to your situation, schedule a consultation with a Pasadena estate planning lawyer.
