Elder Law

The Long-Term Care Dilemma in Jacksonville, Florida

As our population ages, more and more of us confront elder law-related issues, whether for ourselves or our parents. One of the most pressing issues is Florida long-term nursing home care, which usually is not covered by traditional health insurance. Depending on where you live and the level of care needed, the cost of nursing home care can vary greatly. Most people end up paying for Jacksonville nursing home care until their personal (or family) assets are depleted, then they may qualify for Medicaid to pick up the cost of long-term care options.

Florida Annual Median Cost of Care (2020)

Resource: https://www.genworth.com/aging-and-you/finances/cost-of-care.html

However, careful Florida Long Term Care planning can help protect your assets, whether for your spouse or for your children. An elder law attorney in Jacksonville, FL, can help you or a loved one understand options for long-term care in Florida.

Understanding Florida Medicaid

Medicaid Is a joint federal-state program. While subject to specific federal requirements, each state implements its regulations on managing the Medicaid program. Medicaid is not an entitlement program like Medicare, but rather a form of welfare. Medicaid eligibility is determined after the proper application is submitted to the state. Many statewide Medicaid managed care programs are available in Florida, from basic medical coverage to Florida nursing home care programs.

Our Jacksonville elder planning lawyers assist seniors and their families in making the tough decisions regarding long-term care planning, including whether Florida Medicaid eligibility may be an option.

Understanding Senior Housing Options in Jacksonville

Helping a parent move to senior housing can seem more intimidating than orchestrating a rocket launch. The death of a spouse, declining health, or safety concerns can trigger the need to move. The first phase comes with the realization that what has been home is no longer suitable. Emotional ties to a place are hard to overcome. Finding a new home that is appealing and appropriate is no easy task, and neither is culling through a lifetime’s accumulation of “stuff.”

Here are some tips to help make the transition easier:

• Plan ahead. Don’t wait for a health crisis to start the process. The smoothest transitions occur when the person moving is in the driver’s seat.
• Get a full assessment of the current situation. Physical care needs and financial resources are where to start. Consider the costs of staying in place, including renovation and ongoing maintenance. Add the cost of rising utility bills and taxes, and don’t forget transportation and food. Make a list and decide whether it’s cheaper to stay or move to a community designed for seniors.
• Take a multi-phase approach. Seniors often take longer than a year to actually make the move.
• Fully explore new housing options. Senior living offers a broader range of options than ever before.

Our experienced Jacksonville elder planning attorneys can help you preserve your legacy in your golden years of life. If you’re interested in learning more about elder law in Florida and your options, please don’t hesitate to contact our Jacksonville law firm by Booking a Call Today. We look forward to speaking with you.