As we age, it is not uncommon to need assistance with daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, and getting dressed. For those who require more help than can be provided in their own homes, assisted living communities can provide the necessary care and support. However, the cost of living in an assisted living facility can be out of reach for some, and many Texas residents may struggle to afford it. Fortunately, there are government benefit programs available to help Texas residents pay for the cost of living in an assisted living facility. In this article on TheBouquetBlog, we discuss some of these programs and how they can be accessed.
- Medicaid: Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to individuals with low incomes, including those who need long-term care. In Texas, Medicaid provides coverage for individuals who are eligible for nursing home care, but it can also provide coverage for assisted living services. To be eligible for Medicaid, an individual must meet certain income and asset requirements. To learn more about Medicaid and how to apply, visit the Texas Health and Human Services website.
- Veterans Affairs (VA) Aid and Attendance Pension: The VA Aid and Attendance Pension is a benefit program that provides financial assistance to veterans and their surviving spouses who require assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. To be eligible for this program, the individual must have served at least 90 days of active duty, including one day during a period of war, and meet certain income and asset requirements. To learn more about the VA Aid and Attendance Pension and how to apply, visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals with low incomes who are aged, blind, or disabled. In Texas, SSI provides a state supplement to the federal benefit, which can be used to pay for the cost of living in an assisted living facility. To be eligible for SSI, an individual must meet certain income and asset requirements. To learn more about SSI and how to apply, visit the Social Security Administration website.
- Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE): PACE is a program that provides comprehensive medical and social services to individuals who are 55 years of age or older and need nursing home-level care. PACE provides services in the home or in a PACE center, which is a community-based center where participants can receive medical and social services. To be eligible for PACE, an individual must meet certain income and asset requirements. To learn more about PACE and how to apply, visit the U.S. Medicare website.
- Texas Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities (MEPD): The MEPD program is a Medicaid program that covers long-term care, including assisted living, for eligible individuals who are aged or have disabilities. To qualify for MEPD, an individual must meet certain financial and medical criteria. To learn more about the MEPD program, visit the Texas Health and Human Services website.
These programs can provide financial assistance and support to individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford the care they need. Remember, though, that this list in not exhaustive. There are many government benefit programs available to Texas residents who need assistance paying for the cost of living in an assisted living facility. There are also some state programs that are still awaiting approval. If you or a loved one is considering assisted living and are concerned about the cost, we encourage you to explore these programs and determine which ones may be right for your specific needs and circumstances.
