Medicaid provides health insurance to vulnerable individuals, including low-income families, pregnant women, disabled persons and senior citizens. Medicaid covers the cost of a range of medical expenses, including physician care, dental care, optician services and prescription medications. Assisted living services are covered under waiver programs that amend the standard state plan.
To qualify for Medicaid, senior Utah residents must be:
- Age 65 or older
- Limited to an income of $1,041 per month and $2,000 in countable assets (single person)
- Limited to an income of $1,372 per month and $3,000 in countable assets (married couple)
Exempt assets include the applicant’s home, provided they or their spouse continue to live in it, as well as household furnishings and a single vehicle.
Seniors can
apply for Medicaid online or call (866) 435-7414 for assistance.
Aging Waiver Utah’s
Aging waiver provides assistance to elderly individuals who require a nursing level of care, yet wish to delay moving to a nursing home. It covers services that can help seniors remain in their home or assisted living facilities, such as nurse visits, housekeeping, personal care, specialized medical equipment and transportation.
To qualify, applicants must be 65 years of age or older and meet the financial requirements of the state Medicaid plan. All applicants are also required to undergo a full assessment to determine their care needs.
To apply for this waiver, seniors can contact the Division of Aging and Adult Services at (801) 538-3910.
New Choices Waiver Program The
New Choices waiver is available to seniors who are transitioning from a nursing home back into the community. This program pays for various services, including assisted living, home care, transitional counseling, transportation and physical and occupational therapy. The program was created to encourage seniors to consider receiving a lower level of care within the community provided it doesn’t hinder their health or quality of life.
To qualify for this waiver, seniors must be at least 65 years of age and currently receive assisted living or nursing home care. Financial requirements for this program are slightly more generous than the state plan. Applicants are permitted to earn up to $2,313 per month. Asset limitations are the same as for the state Medicaid plan.
To apply, or to find out more details about this program, seniors can contact (800) 662-9651.