Workshop unravels paying for long term care with Medicaid

Wednesday Sep 02 2009 8:27 AM

A couple turning 65 has a 75 percent chance that one of them will need long term care. If you are planning on Medicaid serving as an option for paying for that care, the Pierce County Aging and Disability Resource Center has some news for you.

"The Mysteries of Medicaid: Paying for Your Long Term Care" will be held Tuesday, Sept. 15 from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Soundview Building conference room, 3611 S. D St. in Tacoma. ADRC Case Manager Matt Santelli will provide basic information about Medicaid, covered services, eligibility requirements and regulations concerning spending personal finances. The presentation is free and open to all ages.

Most people will never be in a nursing home. About 80 percent of the long term care population lives in their homes and other community based settings.

The cost of long term care is about $100,000 a year in a nursing home or $25 an hour for care in an individual's home. Few people have long term care insurance. Medicare and private health insurance programs do not pay for the majority of long term care services most people need such as getting dressed or using the bathroom independently.

Please RSVP by calling 253-798-8787.

This event is sponsored by the Pierce County Aging and Disability Resource Center. Contact the ADRC at 253-798-4600 or 800-5462-0332.

CONTACT: Bob Riler, program specialist; Pierce County Aging and Long Term Care at 253-798-7384 or briler@co.pierce.wa.us

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