Long-term care (LTC) is designed to provide critical services that assist individuals with chronic conditions in managing limitations that may impede their ability to live independently. Unlike traditional medical care, long-term care focuses on maintaining a person’s current level of functioning rather than trying to improve or cure underlying medical issues. For individuals facing physical illnesses or disabilities, support with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) is crucial. However, to fully benefit from these services, individuals need to know how they can qualify for long-term care assistance in Florida.
Qualifying for Florida Long-Term Care Benefits
To be eligible for long-term care benefits in Florida, you must satisfy the following criteria:
- Age: You should be at least 65 or 18 years old and qualify for Medicaid due to a disability.
- Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen or a recognized “qualified” alien.
- Florida residency: You need to be a resident of Florida.
- Income: Your gross monthly income should not exceed $2,829 in 2024.
- Assets: Countable assets must not surpass $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples.
- Level of care: A determination by the Comprehensive Assessment and Review for Long-Term Care Services (CARES) Program is needed to establish that you require nursing facility care or hospital care for cystic fibrosis.
The Agencies That Determine Eligibility
Individuals seeking services through the Long-Term Care program must undergo a thorough screening and assessment process to determine their eligibility. The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) plays a key role in this process by using screening scores to prioritize applicants for placement on the waiting list. As slots become available, DOEA systematically releases individuals from the waiting list, allowing them to receive necessary services. Moreover, the DOEA conducts detailed assessments to evaluate each applicant’s medical eligibility for Medicaid long-term care services, ensuring that individuals receive the appropriate level of care based on their medical conditions and needs.
In addition, the financial eligibility for Medicaid is determined by the Department of Children and Families (DCF). This involves an assessment of the individual’s financial situation, including income and assets, to ensure that assistance is provided based on established Medicaid guidelines. Together, these processes help ensure that individuals receive the care and support they need in a timely and organized manner.
The Services Provided
The Long-Term Care program is dedicated to providing a range of home and community-based services designed to support individuals in maintaining their independence. These services enable people to live comfortably in their own homes or within a supportive community environment, ensuring access to essential care and resources tailored to their unique needs.
These services include the following:
- Adult Companion
- Adult Day Health Care
- Assistive Care Services
- Assisted Living Facility Services
- Attendant Care
- Behavior Management
- Caregiver Training
- Case Management
- Home Accessibility Adaptation
- Home Delivered Meals
- Homemaker
- Hospice
- Intermittent and Skilled Nursing
- Medical Equipment & Supplies
- Medication Administration
- Medication Management
- Nursing Facility Care
- Nutritional Assessment and Risk Reduction
- Occupational Therapy
- Personal Care
- Personal Emergency Response System
- Physical Therapy
- Respiratory Therapy
- Respite Care
- Speech Therapy
- Transportation
Contact Losavio & DeJean Today for Additional Information
An often overlooked but important component of estate planning is preparing for Medicaid. Medicaid is a government program designed to provide vital healthcare services to individuals as they grow older, ensuring they receive the necessary support and care.
At Losavio & DeJean, LLC, The Louisiana Elder Law Firm, we specialize in guiding clients through the intricacies of Medicaid. Our team of knowledgeable Medicaid attorneys is dedicated to evaluating your eligibility, helping you navigate the application process, and ensuring you secure the care you need without sacrificing your hard-earned assets.
To learn more about long-term care benefits in Florida, contact Losavio & DeJean today.