New York’s Medicaid program gives low-income seniors, disabled persons, pregnant women and families with children access to health care services. The state Medicaid plan covers the cost of prescription medications and necessary medical devices, as well as services such as primary care, hospital services, dental care, skilled nursing care and laboratory tests.
To qualify for New York Medicaid coverage as a senior citizen, applicants must be 65 years of age or older and have a maximum income of $859 per month and no more than $15,450 in countable assets. All sources of income are considered, but the asset limits don’t include an applicant’s home, vehicle or personal property such as household furnishings and clothing. Applicants must also be U.S. citizens or qualified aliens and permanent residents of New York.
Seniors who reside in New Windsor can apply for benefits by contacting the Orange County Social Services Department at (845) 291-4000.
Assisted Living Waiver Program
The Assisted Living program is a Medicaid waiver that helps senior citizens living in assisted living facilities pay for the cost of their care. The program covers the following costs:
- Personal care
- Room and board
- Housekeeping
- Supervision
- Personal emergency response services
- Skilled nursing care
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Home health services
- Medical equipment
- Case management services
Those who apply for the AL waiver and need Medicaid financial assistance must meet the program’s eligibility requirements for long-term care. These include the residency, income and asset guidelines as well as the medical qualifications. Additionally, they must be assessed as able to safely reside in an assisted living facility
. This program is capped at 4,200 participants across the state, so there may be a waiting list to receive services even for those who qualify.
For more information or to submit an application, seniors living in New Windsor can contact the
Orange County Social Services Department at (845) 291-4000.