It’s true what they say, “there’s no place like home.” Most seniors understand the truth in that saying and want to live at home.

Unfortunately some seniors who have difficulties with certain activities of daily living may need some help in order to remain in their homes. This help can be expensive and may not be affordable.

The good news is that the New York Medicaid home care program can provide access to home care for individuals who wish to stay in their homes. The program is designed to help eligible seniors or individuals with disabilities remain at home, instead of in a nursing home or alternative living situation. This program is financially means tested which means the Medicaid applicant must meet certain financial requirements before being eligible for Medicaid-funded home care services.

The New York Medicaid home care program provides home attendant and/or housekeeping services to Medicaid-eligible individuals who are having difficulty with at least one or more activities of daily living, such as walking, cleaning, cooking, bathing and using the bathroom, and who are in stable medical condition.

Since financial eligibility for Medicaid Home Care depends on income and resources, it is important to understand the rules in order to take advantage of the exceptions, exemptions and deductions. Medicaid budgets the Medicaid recipient’s monthly income and “excess income” must be spent down before accessing care services.  This excess income can be protected thru the use of a Pooled Trust.  The  Trust can take the monthly excess income and use it to pay for living expenses instead of it being spent down on care services.  This allows the senior to have sufficient funds to stay at home while receiving care under the Medicaid program.

It’s important to know the options and the eligibility requirements for Medicaid home care services in order to maintain the quality of life you or a loved one desire.