This week’s question:
What benefits might my loved one be eligible for, and how do I know?
There are many resources and benefits that you and your loved one may be eligible for. Here are a few:
Medi-Cal can pay long-term care costs, including nursing, living facilities, and home care, for those eligible. Medi-Cal social workers will develop personalized care plans for each participant, providing recommended services and supports such as recreational and social activities, transportation, and medication administration. To qualify, applicants must be at least 21 years old, have a need for a specific level as well as a specific type of care, and meet the financial restrictions. Medi-Cal will consider an applicant’s monthly income and assets when granting aid; as of April 2019, the monthly income limit was capped at $1,271 for a single person and $1,720 for a married couple applying together.
To learn more about Medi-Cal and to view the Assisted Living Waiver, you can visit the Department of Health Care Services website.
In-Home Support Services (IHSS)
The IHSS program is considered an alternative to out-of-home care, providing a set number of hours of caregiving that allows disabled individuals to live safely in their own homes. IHSS shares the same eligibility determination as Medi-Cal, and older adults with dementia must be over 65 years of age. Applicants will be interviewed at their home by county social workers, who will gauge their ability to safely perform ordinary tasks. From there, IHSS will determine what kind of services you need, as well as the number of hours that will be authorized for these services.
To look at IHSS, the application process, and available services, visit their website or their brochure.
Veteran’s Aid can provide additional support to veterans and to those caring for them. The program offers a basic veterans pension, as well as an Aid and Attendance (A&A) pension benefit that is available to veterans who served on active duty for at least 90 consecutive days. Their website elaborates on the service and clinical requirements for applicants to be eligible for aid, as well as pension rates.
Some other options you may consider:
These are only a few options to consider. Feel free to visit your local programs’ websites to check your eligibility for aid, or contact our Helpline to help you explore your options and connect you with other community resources.
Have questions concerning Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other memory issues? We have answers.
As part of our array of programs and services for local families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, Alzheimer’s Orange County offers a free telephone helpline to answer any questions you may have about the disease. Whether you are someone experiencing dementia or other memory problems, a caregiver, or simply have questions about the disease, our experts are here to provide you with the information, resources, and advice that you need.
Our very own Helpline Specialists join us on our blog series to answer the most frequently asked questions that they encounter from caregivers and their loved ones, as well as their solutions to common issues and difficulties you may be experiencing.
Have a question about Alzheimer’s & dementia, but don’t see it here? Be sure to contact Alzheimer’s Orange County’s Helpline at 844-HELP-ALZ (844-435-7259) and we will help. To see the other programs and resources that Alzheimer’s Orange County can offer to you and your loved ones, visit our website at https://www.alzoc.org/.
