Low-income seniors in Dupage County may be eligible to receive health insurance through Illinois Medicaid. Through this entitlement program, qualifying seniors may receive financial assistance for adult day health care and in-home personal care services. The Supported Living Program and the Long-Term Care Waiver, which are outlined below, provide long-term nursing home care services to seniors.
To qualify for Medicaid, Dupage County seniors must be at least 60 years old, a U.S. citizen or legal resident and a resident of Illinois. Additionally, they must meet income and asset guidelines. Individuals who are eligible for Medicaid may have a monthly income of up to $1,041 and up to $2,000 in countable assets. If both spouses are applying for Medicaid, the income limit is $1,409 per month and the countable asset limit is $3,000.
Those who do not meet income and asset eligibility requirements may still qualify for Illinois Medicaid through the Medically Needy Pathway program, which is often called a spend-down program, or through Medicaid planning, which is for those who cannot afford the cost of their medical care.
Illinois Medicaid offers two Home and Community-Based Waiver programs that can pay for senior care services that are not generally covered by Medicaid.
The Supportive Living Program provides an alternative to nursing home care for low-income individuals who prefer to live in an assisted living facility. While this program does not cover room and board, it does pay for supportive service, such as personal care assistance, medication management and social and health activities.
The Long-Term Care program provides payment for long-term nursing home services. To receive financial assistance with nursing home care, seniors must apply for medical benefits through the Department of Human Services and obtain a needs screening through the Department on Aging.
For more information on Illinois Medicaid or its waiver programs, Dupage County residents can visit the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services website or call (800) 226-0768.