.png&w=256&q=75){kind=small}
Who Qualifies for Assisted Living Financial Assistance in Utah?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
Individuals meeting certain income requirements may qualify for assisted living financial assistance in Utah. The state offers several resources, including the New Choices Waiver Program through the state’s Medicaid program, that provide financial assistance for long-term care options. Those previously living in a nursing home wishing to transition to an assisted living facility can access program benefits if they meet eligibility guidelines.
Assisted Living Services Covered By Medicaid
Offered by the Utah Department of Health & Human Services, the New Choices Waiver Program provides financial assistance to those requiring nursing home level care wishing to reside in an assisted living facility. Individuals may receive a package of supportive services and benefits to reduce out-of-pocket long-term care costs. This package can include case management, emergency response systems, financial management services, non-emergency medical transportation, respite services, personal budget assistance, specialized medical equipment, medication management and attendant care.
Applicants must meet certain requirements to be eligible for this waiver, including being at least 65 years old, a legal U.S. citizen and a permanent Utah resident. Seniors must also meet specific financial limits and have lived in a nursing home for at least 90 days or an assisted living facility for a full year prior to applying for the waiver.
Additional Assisted Living Financial Resources in Utah
Seniors not eligible for Medicaid can access assisted living financial assistance through other options, such as the VA Aid and Attendance benefit. Veterans receiving a monthly VA pension may qualify for an additional cash allowance to pay for long-term care services, including assisted living. Eligible seniors must require assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing and feeding, have limited eyesight, spend a large portion of the day in bed or be a nursing home patient due to a mental or physical disability.
Long-term care insurance (LTC) can also help cover long-term care services at an assisted living facility. These insurance policies reimburse a daily allowance to individuals requiring assistance with daily living activities. Most policies cover a portion of the costs, but the specific policy will determine what care options and benefits are covered financially. For homeowners, reverse mortgages can also be used to pay for assisted living. These are loans that can be converted into cash equivalent to the value of an individual’s home. However, these loans typically need to be repaid with interest within 12 months of being issued.