Understanding The Medi-Cal Planning Los Angeles Senior Citizens Are Entitled To

By Shirley Ellis


People approach growing older in different ways. Some just ignore the fact that they don't have as much energy or are as strong as they once were. Fortunate seniors enjoy their retirement years traveling and doing the things they never had time to do when they were busy with careers and children to care for. Some prudent older individuals recognize there may come a time when they need extra help and care. They know careful Medi-cal planning Los Angeles others have talked to them about is very important.

Long term care decisions are not always pleasant to think about, but a debilitating illness can occur to anyone. Wise senior citizens go ahead and take steps to ensure they will be able to get skilled health care for an extended period if it becomes necessary. Preparing wills, advance care directives, and letting family members know where to find important papers are crucial first steps.

It just makes sense to get your affairs in order when you are still strong and alert enough to make informed decisions. Going into a nursing facility is not the first choice for most people, but it may become the reality. If this is the case, you want to be in a position to retain the assets you have amassed over your lifetime. If you don't, you may find yourself without the resources you need to ensure the most skilled care available.

Many people mistakenly believe that Medi-cal is only for the poorest California citizens. This is not true, but you will need the services of a good lawyer specializing in the field of long term care for seniors to help you wade through the confusing and changing rules and regulations regarding this topic. It is not enough to read some articles online and try to negotiate with facility directors on your own.

Married people definitely have an advantage when it comes to financial qualifications. A couple is allowed more than a hundred thousand dollars in cash and a home of any value when applying. It doesn't matter to the state how much money the well spouse earns as long as the affected spouse qualifies.

There are different rules for single people. These individuals have fewer options and can only show a few thousand dollars in cash, a vehicle and a residence as assets. Single applicants who have more assets will need the services of a good attorney to help them around the requirements.

The state of California is currently trying to change the rules about how they can recover money paid out in Medi-cal after a person dies. They can go after the deceased's estate unless assets have been transferred out of their name before that happens. Once again, you and your family will need a good lawyer to help you make the necessary plans to avoid the state suing for recovery.

Hopefully you will be healthy and active until the day you die. Advance planning for a different outcome however can make the difference between leaving a financial legacy or dying with very little to pass on to your heirs.




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