Question
My dad suffered a stroke that will require long-term rehabilitation in a nursing home. He's going to apply for Medicaid to help with the costs, but he may be ineligible because my parents still have their life savings in the bank. A friend told them that if they were to divorce, he might be able to qualify for Medicaid. Should my parents think about getting a divorce so my dad can qualify for Medicaid -- or is this some kind of urban legend?
— Anonymous Caring.com community member
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Blanche Katz; www.BlancheKatz.com; Garden Grove, CA answered:
Talk with an Elder Law Attorney who will know your state's law. In California, the community spouse will be able to retain certain assets and income while the spouse in a skilled nursing home will receive the entitled benefits. Check on how far a "look back" by the state is done (maybe at least 3-5 years?); an Elder Law attorney (not an Estate Planner) will be the best source to get information about this topic. I am a retired Gerontological Nurse Practitioner who speaks with adult children who want to avoid and anticipate elder care issues.
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