Many Florida families are faced with considering independent living or assisted living options for their elderly loved ones. Rising healthcare costs make this task more formidable than ever. They often ask, “Will Medicare cover the cost of long-term care?” 

An Elder Law Attorney in Lakeland from Mortellaro Law offers some tips and insights for navigating Medicare and finding ways to fund long-term care and other needs. 

What Can My Elderly Loved One Expect from Medicare?

The Medicare program is designed primarily as health insurance for the elderly. While it may cover some related treatment in skilled nursing facilities or from home health services, Medicare does not cover the costs of assisted or independent living facilities and the long-term custodial care they provide. 

Medicare can provide: 

  • Short-term stays in a skilled nursing facility following a hospitalization
  • Home health care services that are medically necessary 
  • Hospice care for those with a terminal illness 

All these services are to help a person get well and return to independent living. That is where your loved one’s Medicare benefits end. One of our elder law attorneys can answer more questions about Medicare in a confidential consultation. 

Planning for Long-Term Care with an Elder Law Attorney in Lakeland

This means you must be proactive and find other options to pay for long-term care. A Lakeland Elder Law Attorney has the knowledge, skills, and resources to help you explore the options available in Florida and how to choose the best ones. Michelangelo Mortellaro and his team typically help families with: 

Long-Term Care Insurance 

Long-term care insurance policies can cover assisted living expenses. We can also help you explore funding options that still make your loved one eligible for Medicaid coverage. 

Medicaid Planning | Elder Law Attorney in Lakeland

Florida Medicaid requires in-state residency, U.S. citizenship or meeting select residency criteria, being at least 65, and strict income and asset limitations. Your loved ones must also plan ahead and manage their finances to navigate the Look-Back Period and be eligible for enrollment legally. We have helped families across Florida navigate complicated legal rules to obtain benefits to offset long-term care costs.

Veteran’s Benefits 

Many elderly veterans don’t realize they could be eligible for some VA benefits that can help pay for long-term care. A Lakeland Elder Law Attorney can help you explore Aid and Attendance Benefits. In addition, this benefit is adjusted annually for the cost of living. We can help you complete an application and avoid mistakes. 

Early Planning is Key 

It is essential to plan for long-term care well in advance. Early planning can offer more choices and alleviate concerns. Our Elder Law Attorneys at Mortellaro Law can assist you in this planning process. It may include strategies for asset protection, assessing insurance policies, and comprehending the qualification criteria for different benefit programs. We encourage you to contact us soon to explore your options and start planning for the future.

We are excited to announce that we now have a Lakeland office to better serve our clients. When you call to schedule a consultation, please inquire about availability at our Lakeland location.