Several financial assistance programs can help seniors with the cost of long-term care, including:
- Medicaid (Health First Colorado):
- Covers nursing home care and some home and community-based services (HCBS) for low-income individuals who meet eligibility requirements.
- Provides financial assistance for room and board in a nursing facility for individuals who cannot afford care themselves.
- Offers HCBS waivers for specific groups like the elderly, blind, and disabled, allowing them to receive services like personal care assistance in their homes instead of nursing facilities.
- Home Care Allowance (HCA):
- Provides cash assistance to low-income individuals 65 and older with disabilities to pay for in-home care services like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and shopping.
- Eligibility is based on receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or being enrolled in the Colorado Aid to the Needy Disabled – State Only (AND-SO) program.
- Offers tiered payments based on the level of care needed.
- PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly):
- A joint federal and state program serving frail elders who meet specific criteria.
- Provides comprehensive health care services, including medical care, social services, adult day care, and personal care, all in one setting.
- Aims to keep participants living in the community instead of nursing homes.
- Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS):
- Offers various programs and services for older adults, including:
- Senior Community Services: Provides meals, transportation, and social activities for low-income seniors.
- Family Resource Centers: Offers information and referrals for various services, including long-term care options.
- Area Agency on Aging (AAA):
- Each Colorado county has an AAA that provides information, counseling, and assistance to older adults and their families on various topics, including long-term care options and financial assistance programs.
- Additional Resources:
- Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing (HCPF): https://hcpf.colorado.gov/
- Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS): https://cdhs.colorado.gov/
- National Institute on Aging: https://www.nia.nih.gov/
Important Note: Eligibility requirements and benefits vary for each program. It’s essential to contact the program directly or visit their website to determine eligibility and application procedures. Additionally, consider seeking professional financial planning or legal advice to understand the best options for your specific situation.