Elder Law Today Podcast

Every so often, I come across a situation that illustrates so clearly the dangers of going it alone or getting bad advice when dealing with the common issues and dilemmas that are aging in America.  I received a call this week from a son in Mississippi.  Mom and Dad, no longer able to live at home alone, moved in with Son.  They owned their home in New Jersey which they transferred to Son.  Dad's health deteriorated to the point where he needed nursing home care.  The couple then spent down their assets and applied for nursing home care for Dad.  Meanwhile Son placed the New Jersey home up for sale. Much to their surprise, the family was informed that the state Medicaid office denied Dad's application.  Why? Because the transfer of the home to Son caused a Medicaid ineligibility period.  Dad cannot receive Medicaid for 4 and 1/2 years.  In other words, Son must give the money back to Mom and Dad and they must spend it down before Dad will receive Medicaid. Son said that he was prepared to pay for Dad's care.