Is there government financial assistance available for Alzheimer’s? Social Security doesn’t specifically cover costs for dementia. However, individuals with dementia may be eligible for two Social Security benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Beck, Lenox & Stolzer Estate Planning and Elder Care does not deal with Social Security payments for this need, but wants to provide information that may be helpful to anyone needing additional funds.
Help, Dementia!’s recent article, “Financial Costs and Planning for Dementia and Alzheimer’s,” explains that Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides financial support to those who’ve worked and paid into the Social Security system and are now unable to work due to a disability, including dementia. To be eligible for SSDI, the individual must have a sufficient work history, and their condition must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of a disability.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides financial support to people with a limited income and assets who are aged, blind, or disabled. Individuals with dementia may be eligible for SSI, if they meet the income and asset limits set by the Social Security Administration. Eligibility for these benefits and the amount of the benefit can vary based on individual circumstances.
The aging agency, the Area Agency on Aging, can also provide information and resources on financial assistance for those with dementia and their families. However, the specific financial assistance available through the aging agency can vary depending on the location and the services offered by the agency. Some services that the aging agency may provide include:
- Information on government benefits, including Medicaid
- Assistance with long-term care planning, including assisted living facilities and in-home care, and can help individuals with dementia and their families to plan for their future care needs; and
- Information on financial assistance programs, including grants and loans that may be available to individuals with dementia and their families to help cover the costs of care.
Life resource planners and elder law lawyers can be useful for those with dementia and their families who need assistance with financial and legal planning. Life resource planners are professionals who specialize in helping individuals and families plan for their future, including financial and legal planning.
Elder law lawyers specialize in legal issues affecting older adults, such as estate planning, government benefits and long-term care planning. Beck and Lenox specializes in reviewing two government programs for the long-term care needs of our clients- VA Aid & Attendance and Medicaid. Medicaid also includes Supplemental Nursing Care which helps pay a portion of assisted living expenses.
To find out if there is government assistance available for your loved one with Alzheimer’s, contact us to schedule a no obligation, complimentary phone consultation with Jayson Lenox or Caroline Daiker.
Reference: Help, Dementia! (February 12, 2023) “Financial Costs and Planning for Dementia and Alzheimer’s”
