Medicaid is a nationwide program offering services to low-income individuals, families and the elderly. The program covers a broad spectrum of services, such as doctor visits, home health care and nursing home care. In Virginia, Medicaid is administered through the Department of Medical Assistance Services, and eligibility for the program is determined by the Department of Social Services.
Seniors applying for Medicaid must meet the following requirements:
- Reside in Virginia
- U.S. citizens or qualifying aliens
- Be age 65 or older
- Single with an income of no more than $2,313 a month and $2,000 or less in countable assets
- Couples with an income equal to or less than $4,626 a month and $4,000 or less in countable assets
Medicaid considers income from sources that include cash, SSI and pensions. Countable assets include all sources of revenue or potential revenue, such as cash, investments, bank accounts and real estate other than the occupant’s home. Exempt assets include various items, such as jewelry, furniture and a principal residence valued at $585,000 or less. See American Council on Aging’s
Virginia Medicaid Income and Asset Limits for more detailed information.
Individuals who require elder care but have income and assets that exceed the allowed amounts, may be eligible for the
Medically Needy Pathway Program. It allows “spending down” on health-related costs in order to qualify for full Medicaid coverage. To apply for Medicaid, visit
Cover VA or call 855-242-8282.
EDCD Waivers For seniors who meet nursing facility eligibility criteria, the
Elderly or Disabled with Consumer Direction Waiver provides various services, including adult day care, respite care, medication monitoring and personal care. Individuals must have medical needs and require assistance with daily living activities to qualify. To learn more information or apply, contact
Virginia Department of Social Services or your
local Williamsburg office at (757) 220-6161.
LTSS Long term services and supports (LTSS) are plans that help seniors living within their homes or assisted living facilities. They are available through Virginia’s
Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus. If a senior is enrolled in the EDCD waiver, CCC Plus will cover any non-waiver services. These include assistive technology, environmental modifications and assistance for those moving from a nursing facility back to the local community. For more information, call (844) 374-9159