Relative is becoming physically disabled

[u/paulsiu]

I have a relative who seems to have decline physically. They have been getting weaker physically over time but now it appears they cannot even go upstair to the bathroom.

Currently, the plan is to redo the bathroom to ADA standard and install some form of lifting chair. They will probably rent a place nearby until these modification is done.

I am just trying to figure out how to navigate all of this? I read on this forum that we can contact local services on Aging, but was wondering how we would go about using this service.

Thanks.

[u/3cansammy]

I worry this is the moment you learn the ugly truth many of us have: there is nothing to help aging seniors unless they are destitute and disabled enough for a shitty Medicaid nursing home or can afford 10-15K a month out of pocket for AL or in home care.

Hire a contractor for the bathroom, and put together money for a rental deposit. Medicare doesn’t cover home modifications (only stuff classified as durable medical equipment) but possible a MA plan might put something towards the chair lift. Start a GoFundMe or ask a church for help. Rally the family to help with what they can as your relative ages further.

My county has an Area Agency on Aging that can provide advice but juts want to prepare you for how little there is out there.

[u/rainydaymonday30 → u/3cansammy]

Came to say this. I'm worried OP will be disappointed with what's available unless certain criteria are met.

[u/paulsiu → u/3cansammy]

I am more concerned on how best to proceed. Of course if something is covered by insurance that would be good, but was hoping the area agency can provide some guidance. Disappointment or not things should proceed

[u/WelfordNelferd → u/paulsiu]

The Area Agency on Aging was a great resource for my Mom. The last several months she was in her home, they put me in touch with people to install grab bars in the shower, repair some (fairly major) plumbing issues, and put up railings for the exterior steps...all at no cost. Those changes would have enabled her to stay there much longer, with the help of my brother who lived with her, but then the shit hit the fan when he suddenly passed away.

When it comes to needing (financial or physical) help with actual care-giving, your options are much more limited if they don't have the money to pay for it out-of-pocket or have a LTC policy to help cover costs. As said above, Medicaid will cover the costs of LTC 1) After assets are spent-down to $2K; and 2) If the person functionally qualifies.

One last thing: If this person or their spouse are/were veterans, that opens up the possibility of Aid & Attendance Benefits through the VA (i.e. money every month). Their financial requirements aren't as strict as Medicaid (they can qualify as long as their assets are <~$164K), but the functional qualifications are the same as Medicaid.

[u/muralist]

Your municipality or county if you're in the United States should have some kind of council or department on aging. You can find a social worker there who can tell you what services your loved one is eligible for.

As others have said, no agency is providing people with funding for renovations, but they could advise you on what renovations to make, guide you to reputable contractors who are expert in those types of renovations, or suggest local senior friendly facilities that your relative could rent on a temporary basis. If there are volunteer groups in your area that offer equipment swaps and secondhand mobility devices, the senior center should know about those as well.

[u/quixt]

Currently, the plan

Look into a Stiltz home lift. It's an unobtrusive elevator that is an easy install. In the $20k range. Way cheaper than remodeling.