Provo Senior AdvisorWhat should we do when savings for care start running low?
Start planning at least six months before the money runs out: estimate how long savings will last, check Medicaid and waiver eligibility, ask current providers whether they accept Medicaid or the New Choices Waiver, and talk to an elder law attorney.
The worst outcome is a parent in a building that does not accept Medicaid when private funds hit zero, which can force a move at the hardest moment.
Will Utah Medicaid pay once a parent's money is spent?
Utah Medicaid pays for long-term nursing home care for people who meet medical need and financial rules, including a $2,000 resource limit for one person, and its waivers can pay for services in assisted living or at home, though not room and board.
The New Choices Waiver's 365-day path lets a person who has lived in licensed assisted living for a year apply from there. See how New Choices works.
What other help exists in Utah County?
MAG's Aging Waiver and Alternatives programs pay for in-home services for people who qualify, Meals on Wheels serves homebound people 60 and older regardless of income, and VA Aid and Attendance helps eligible veterans and surviving spouses.
Call MAG's Senior Helpline at 801-229-3804 for screening, and use free SHIP counseling (801-229-3819) to check whether a parent qualifies for help with Medicare costs.
How can a family stretch what's left?
Compare the true monthly cost of each option, consider a smaller assisted living home or a shared room, use adult day care to reduce paid home care hours, and claim every benefit, including the VA pension and Medicare savings programs.
Utah County's Type I homes and smaller Type II houses sometimes price below larger campuses. Ask for the full rate sheet, including care levels.
Should we talk to the facility about money before it runs out?
Yes. Tell the facility's business office early, ask whether it accepts the New Choices Waiver or Medicaid for long-term care and how residents have transitioned before, and get the answer in writing.
Some Utah County buildings accept a limited number of waiver residents and keep a waiting list of their own. Knowing that six months ahead can make the difference between staying put and moving in a hurry.
Side by side
| Programs that can help | What they will not do | |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Medicaid | Pay long-term nursing home care | Pay assisted living rent |
| New Choices Waiver | Pay services in assisted living | Cover room and board |
| VA pension | Add Aid and Attendance income | Pay without an income test |
Sources: Utah Admin. Code R432-270, Utah DHHS and DLBC pages, MAG Aging & Family Services, CareScout and VA rate tables as cited; see our editorial standards.
