Earlier this year, A study done by Genworth Financial, Inc. reported that nursing home costs in Nevada are more than $4,000 a year above the national median. In Nevada, a private room in a nursing home carries a median rate of $82,125 per year.* Given the current economic situation in Nevada, expensive nursing home costs can be devastating for families. Families are forced to balance a desire to provide quality care for a loved one with the economic realities of high healthcare costs and a depressed economy.
Loved ones must be cautious as high healthcare costs can deplete savings in a short period of time. Fortunately, there is help. Families can find some relief through Medicaid where the family is unable to bear the costs to provide for a loved one. However, families should be aware that applying for state assistance can be complicated. Medicaid has specific rules and requirements that must be satisfied in order to receive aid.
Family members providing long-term healthcare assistance for other family members in these tough economic times must also remember to take care of themselves. Providing care for an ageing or disabled family member is not only financially draining, but can also be emotionally draining. Family members, especially spouses, must not attempt to do more than is physically possible. This can lead to financial ruin or physical exhaustion. It is often not possible to provide adequate care alone. Even though economic times are tough, it is important to seek help.
Jeffrey Burr Ltd. has a full service Elder Law division that is available to assist you in helping you with all your Medicaid and long-term health care assistance. We are happy to answer any questions you may have.
*Source: Genworth Financial Press Release, Home Care Costs in Nevada Rising Faster than Nationally, Finds Genworth's Annual Cost of Care Survey, Genworth Financial, Inc., May 10, 2011.
- Attorney Corey Schmutz
"*" indicates required fields