Mom is 90 years old and lives in assisted living. She has given me her POA. She has enough money to live in her AL for 5 more years. She wants to spend her money and enjoy her life while she can so that when and if she has to go to a nursing home, Medicaid will pick up the payments. What concerns should we have if Mom wants to take a trip or two? Does Medicaid look into family vacations as a violation of their rules when applying for aid? Does anyone have any good references for us to read re: what is considered "off limits" regarding policy? We want to do the right thing and honor mom's wishes, but not get her into trouble with the law. Thanks.
No problem if Mom wants to go on vacation but u may want to pay your own way.
Medicaid knows all the tricks. The look back is usually 5 years. She is 90. She could need this money for her care next week. If she uses the money for a family trip, it may have to be paid back. It is a nice fantasy to all go on one last trip together but the reality is, she may need that money sooner rather than later.
My mom did go on vacation to FL with 24/7 caregivers that had to be paid the entire time. Mom paid all expenses. We knew she was about to enter a nursing home & this would be the last time she get to go anywhere.
None of us knows what tomorrow holds, enjoy the time while you can.
From what I have seen here there are several posters that can help you work the system to get her approved if needed.