A Medicaid seminar “Sudden Changes and Big Decisions,” will be offered on Thursday, September 11, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Heartland Mall Community Center.

The free short seminar is offered to the public and back by popular demand, thanks to sponsor Care Nursing and Rehab.  The seminar will be presented by Hyde Law Firm with answers on Medicaid for long term care and Joanne McCraw with the STAR, STAR+PLUS, and Texas Health Steps Programs.  McCraw will speak and answer questions about current Medicaid changes, specifically those affecting the aged and disabled populations.

The public is invited to attend the seminar and is reminded by organizers that “Change is life’s only constant.”

Organizer Jodie Armstrong of Care Nursing and Rehab explained the importance of the seminar:

Sometimes these changes strike without warning. If you or a loved one has experienced a sudden illness or serious accident, you understand how abruptly everything can change.  Are you or a loved one suddenly in need of nursing home care? Finding and affording quality care on short notice can be stressful and draining. We can help you determine the best options for care and how to qualify for Medicaid to help finance them.

Long-term care is expensive, and these costs only continue to increase as baby boomers age. According to the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, the annual cost of care will double in the next 20 years, increasing from $73,000 to $131,800. With improved medical care, the average life span of adults also is increasing; this translates into more years of care at increasingly higher rates. Without some sort of financial assistance, these costs could be financially devastating. In fact, your entire life savings could be quickly depleted within a few years of needing long-term care. This is where Medicaid can help. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program to assist those with low income and limited resources. While Medicare provides limited long-term care coverage, Medicaid is much more extensive. However, because of its restrictions, qualifying for Medicaid can be extremely difficult. But paying for a nursing home without it could be all but impossible.

“We can give you – and your family – peace of mind during a difficult and uncertain time,” said Armstrong. “When dealing with Medicaid, legal advice is something you cannot afford to go without.”

Refreshments served during the seminar.  For more information call Jodie Armstrong, Marketing and Admissions Director 325-642-0363.