No matter where in Ohio you live, if you are approaching retirement or are already into your later years, it may be time to start planning for possible long term care needs. Did you know you will probably not be able to rely solely on your Medicare coverage for everything you need, even if you signed up for the insurance when you turned 65? Consider meeting with an Ohio elder law attorney as soon as possible to make sure you are set for the future and read on for more information.

While often confused, Medicare and Medicaid are two very different programs. Medicare covers most Ohio residents over age 65, and some disabled residents who are younger. It is primarily a health insurance program, not a long-term care solution. Medicare will cover up to 100 days of nursing home care if you need it, but it may be considered a stopgap at best. For complete coverage of your long-term care needs it is more likely you will need Medicaid coverage. An Ohio Medicaid planning attorney can help you through the process of qualifying and applying for Medicaid. Qualification depends on your income and assets. The sooner you meet with an attorney, the better, because qualification often involves a 5 year, 60 month, lookback over your assets. If you are preparing for the future more than 5 years ahead of when you need nursing home care, you may be able to protect your life savings from being drained by nursing home costs, with assistance from a qualified Ohio elder law attorney.

You may be thinking that you will rely on family when you need help. But many of Ohio’s seniors today have children who are part of the sandwich generation, and they may be preoccupied with raising your grandchildren at the time you need the most hands-on care. They may also be working longer if they cannot afford to retire early enough to help you day to day. If you have Medicaid coverage, you likely will not have to worry about getting the help you need.

For assistance navigating long-term care planning and related legal issues, please reach out to our office to schedule a meeting time.