Author: Sarah Williams
Reviewed By: Catherine Braxton
Certified assisted living facilities accept Medicaid, but not all communities take this payment method. To do so, facilities must meet strict criteria set by state government agencies, and rules vary between states. Often, state licensing agencies conduct facility surveys for Medicaid and Medicare certification. A facility may have a limited number of Medicaid-certified beds available rather than holding certification for the whole capacity.
Unfortunately, no national database of Medicaid-certified facilities is available to the public. This means that individuals should check details on facility websites or contact providers directly to inquire if they take Medicaid payments. Alternatively, local Area Agency on Aging or Aging and Disability Resource Center staff may be able to assist.
Medicaid funding for assisted living isn’t available in all states. In many states, financial assistance is via Home and Community-Based Services waivers rather than traditional Medicaid. Public aid through Medicaid and waiver programs doesn’t usually cover the costs of room and board in an assisted living facility. Instead, qualifying seniors may receive help paying for essential support services, such as assistance with activities of daily living, maintenance and transportation, alongside social and wellness programming.
If Medicaid isn’t a viable payment option or pays partial care costs, leaving a shortfall, seniors must find other ways to pay for outstanding care costs. Many individuals use private funds, such as their income or assets, to cover assisted living fees. Sometimes, family members extend financial help. Additionally, former members of the U.S. Armed Forces may qualify for VA benefits, homeowners can consider using a reverse mortgage and policyholders may be able to use insurance, such as long-term care or life insurance, to pay for assisted living.
