Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly
The Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a state-managed program providing benefits to seniors who require a nursing level of care but would rather live at home or in an assisted living facility. The PACE program offers eligible seniors subsidized costs on medical and social services such as daily nurse visits, medical and dental care, non-emergency transportation and long-term care, such as personal care assistance both in the home and assisted living facilities.
To be eligible for PACE, applicants must be 55 years of age or older and able to live safely within their community. They must also submit to a comprehensive care assessment to determine the level of care they require and meet the financial requirements of the Medicaid Managed Care Long-Term Care Program.
Seniors who are interested in learning more about the PACE program can call (855) 435-7223.
Optional State Supplement
Supplemental Security Income recipients may be eligible for additional financial benefits through Florida’s Optional State Supplement (OSS). OSS exists to provide additional financial assistance to low-income seniors, and benefits are paid in cash to be used towards room and board costs. The OSS is available to individuals who are blind or disabled, age 65 and older, a U.S. citizen or qualified alien and residing in a Florida long-term care facility.
The benefit amount is calculated based on the senior’s income and has a maximum payout of $78.40 per month. Applicants must have an income that doesn’t exceed $849.40 per month and assets valued at less than $2,000.
Seniors can apply for the OSS by contacting ACCESS Florida at (866) 762-2237.
Elderlife Bridge Loan
Elderlife Financial Services provide an alternative payment option to seniors who are ineligible for Medicaid funding or state financial assistance programs. Bridge loans are issued directly to a senior’s long-term care facility and can be paid back by the senior, or family members, in monthly installments. Payment terms are flexible and loans have low interest rates.
To be eligible for an Elderlife Bridge Loan, seniors must have a good credit history and enough income to cover the monthly payments. Seniors who are unable to obtain approval on their own can apply with up to six cosigners, which increases their chances of approval and helps to reduce monthly payments.
Long-Term Care Insurance
Seniors who hold a long-term care insurance policy can use their coverage to pay for the cost of assisted living. Most insurance plans require seniors to pay an annual deductible, which varies depending on the insurance provider and the plan purchased. Eligibility, premiums and policy terms vary as well depending on the insurance provider, but in most cases, plans must be purchased before the need for long-term care exists, and costs are determined in part by the age and health condition of the policyholder.