Justin, My dad is getting older and needing more help around the house, but he’s not ready for a nursing home. I’ve always heard Medicaid only pays for nursing home care. Is that true? — Lisa
Lisa, That’s a common misconception. While Medicaid is best known for covering nursing home costs, Arkansas has programs that help seniors stay out of nursing homes when medically possible.
In addition to nursing home Medicaid, Arkansas offers ARChoices, which is an in-home care Medicaid program. If your dad qualifies medically and financially, ARChoices can provide in-home caregiver help with things like bathing, dressing, meals, and light housekeeping—keeping him safe at home longer.
There’s also a Medicaid program for assisted living, called the Living Choices waiver. If your dad reaches a point where an assisted living facility would be better than staying at home, this Medicaid program can help cover his care costs there as well.
Of course, the programs have income and asset rules, and they require proof of medical need. But it’s important to know Medicaid isn’t just for nursing homes—it can support people at different care levels, giving families more options.
If your dad needs care now or you’re planning ahead, we’d be glad to talk about which Medicaid program might fit best and how your dad can qualify. Visit ElrodFirm.com to learn more or request a no-charge strategy session