Does the State of California Pay for Elderly Care?
Medi-Cal:
- Medicaid Program: Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program, providing healthcare coverage for low-income individuals, including seniors. Medi-Cal covers a wide range of services, including long-term care in nursing homes, in-home care, and other medical services..
- Eligibility Eligibility is based on income and asset limits, which vary depending on the specific program and individual circumstances.
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS):
- Personal Care Services: IHSS provides personal care services to eligible seniors who need assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and housekeeping.
- Eligibility: To qualify, individuals must be California residents, aged 65 or older (or disabled), and meet income and resource requirements. A needs assessment is conducted to determine the level of care required.
Assisted Living Waiver (ALW):
- Assisted Living Services: The ALW program provides Medi-Cal-eligible seniors with access to assisted living services as an alternative to nursing home care. Services include personal care, medication management, and social activities.
- Eligibility: Participants must be eligible for Medi-Cal, require a nursing home level of care, and reside in a participating assisted living facility.
Multipurpose Senior Services Program (MSSP):
- Care Coordination: MSSP offers comprehensive care coordination and supportive services to help frail seniors remain in their homes. Services include case management, personal care, transportation, and home modifications.
- Eligibility: Seniors must be aged 65 or older, eligible for Medi-Cal, and at risk of institutionalization.
Community-Based Adult Services (CBAS):
- Adult Day Health Care: CBAS provides adult day health care services to Medi-Cal-eligible seniors, including medical care, physical therapy, social activities, and meals.
- Eligibility: Participants must be Medi-Cal beneficiaries and meet specific medical and functional criteria.
Veterans Services:
- California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet): CalVet offers various benefits and services to veterans, including long-term care, home loans, and support services. Veterans may be eligible for additional assistance through federal programs such as the Aid and Attendance benefit
Other Financial Assistance Programs:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI provides monthly payments to low-income seniors to help cover basic living expenses. In California, SSI recipients are automatically eligible for Medi-Cal.
- State Supplementary Payment (SSP): California offers an additional state supplement to SSI recipients, increasing their monthly income.
Accessing Services:
- Application Process: Seniors and their families can apply for Medi-Cal and other state programs through the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) or local county offices.
- Assistance and Advocacy: Various organizations and advocacy groups provide assistance with applications and navigating the healthcare system.