2021 State Legislative Forum | Texas
Mar 22, 2021
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Priority #1 Protection of Long-Term Care Facility Residents
Texas consistently ranks as one of the worst states in the country when it comesto quality of care for long-term care facility residents. These vulnerable, isolatedindividuals deserve better treatment and protection at this stage of their lives.Covid-19 amplified many of the flaws in resident care, and there are opportunitiesin this legislative session to improve some of these issues and strengthen the careand protection of long-term care residents.
SJR 19, HJR 46, SB 267, HB 892 House and Senate bills to create aconstitutional amendment or requirement by Health and Human ServicesCommission establishing a right for residents of certain facilities to designate anessential caregiver for in-person visitation with whom the facility may not prohibitin-person visitation.
SB 270 A long-term care facility may file a civil action against a residentsresponsible payor for misappropriation of the residents funds.
SB 271 Expands criminal history check to include previous residence(s) outsidethe state of Texas.
HB 1221 Expands current legislation relating to communicable disease andinfection prevention and control measures for long-term care facilities to include,but not limited to,:
Providing a safe, sanitary and comfortable environment;
Help prevent transmission of communicable diseases;
Designating a quality assessment and assurance committee; and
Authorizing an administrative penalty.
Priority #2 Elder Financial Abuse Protection
Elder financial abuse is rampant in Texas and across the country. Older adultslose more than $36 billion each year to frauds, scams and exploitation. Thesecrimes must be prevented; older adults need to be better protected; and thosecommitting these crimes should be prosecuted. Legislative action that holdsperpetrators accountable and strengthens protections for vulnerable older adultsis needed.
HB 1156 Related to creating the criminal offense of financial abuse of an elderly individual. Defining penalties for financial exploitation or abuse.
SB 109 Related to the criminal offense of fraudulent securing of document execution without a persons express consent.
HB 491 Related to increasing the statute of limitations for aggravated assaultand for financial crimes against older adults.
HB 536 Related to the entry into the Texas Crime Information Center ofinformation concerning the release on bond of persons charged with committinga violent offense.
Priority #3 Food Security for Older Adults/SNAP Provisions
Food insecurity for older adults across the state has only increased during theCovid-19 pandemic. We should be making it easier for older Texans and thosewith disabilities to access this benefit, not more difficult. For many who are eligible to receive SNAP benefits, the process is so cumbersome and arduous,they simply give up and go without. We must do better and lengthen theeligibility time and simplify the application process.
HB 1019; SB 224; HB 701 Related to Implementing a simplified applicationprocess. Households composed solely of seniors and/or persons with a disabilitywith no earned income can be certified for 36 months using a shortenedapplication form with limited documentation requirements.
HB 1230 Related to eliminating the Vehicle Asset Test for the SNAPapplication process.
Other Critical Issues to follow:
Medicaid Expansion
Among the 50 states, Texas has the highest number and percentage of uninsuredcitizens. Medicaid Expansion would provide health insurance coverage for upto 1.5 million Texas citizens age 19-64, who earn less than 138% of the federalpoverty level, at a $90-$10 federal funding match.
SB 118 & 119 Related to State Medicaid ExpansionHousing, Tenant and Financial Protections
SB 265 Related to fighting housing discrimination based on source of income(vouchers, etc.)
SB TBD - Related to creating a voluntary state certification for safe independentliving facilities that will incentivize best practices and inform seniors as they makehousing decisions; improving tenant protections for seniors leasing in independentliving; and conducting audits to enforce existing state laws on cash-for-gold shopsthat fence stolen jewelry.
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Long Term Care Insurance in Northern Colorado: What Seniors and Families Need to Know
As the population of older adults continues to grow in Northern Colorado, many families are beginning to plan more seriously for long-term care needs. One essential piece of the puzzle is understanding long term care insurancewhat it is, how it works, and why it might be a valuable addition to your retirement strategy.Whether you're a senior looking ahead or a caregiver exploring options for a loved one, this guide will walk you through the basics of long-term care insurance and how it applies to the Northern Colorado community. What Is Long Term Care Insurance?Long term care insurance is a type of policy that helps cover the cost of services that support individuals who need help with everyday activities due to aging, chronic illness, injury, or cognitive conditions like dementia. This type of care typically isn't covered by regular health insurance or Medicare.Long term care may include:Assistance with bathing, dressing, or eatingIn-home care or home health aidesAdult day care servicesAssisted living or nursing home careMemory care servicesWithout insurance, these services can become a significant financial burden over time. A long term care policy helps reduce out-of-pocket expenses, providing greater financial security and more choices when it comes to care. Why Long-Term Care Insurance Matters in Northern ColoradoIn Northern Coloradoincluding cities like Fort Collins, Greeley, and Lovelandthere is a growing network of senior resources, retirement communities, and healthcare services. This makes it an excellent place to age well, but also highlights the importance of financial planning to take advantage of these options.Here are some key reasons to consider long term care insurance:Cost of care is rising. The average cost for assisted living or skilled nursing in Colorado continues to increase, making insurance a smart planning tool.Aging population. As Northern Colorado's senior population grows, demand for quality care increases.Peace of mind. Families with long term care coverage often have more control and flexibility when care decisions arise. When Should You Buy Long Term Care Insurance?The ideal time to purchase long term care insurance is typically in your 50s or early 60s, when you're more likely to qualify for coverage and lock in lower premiums. However, policies are available to those in their 70s depending on health status.A few tips when considering a policy:Compare different providers and policy optionsLook for inflation protection to maintain value over timeUnderstand what's coveredand what isntTalk with a trusted financial advisor or elder law expert Local Resources for Long Term Care PlanningNorthern Colorado offers a wide variety of senior-focused services and professional guidance for those interested in exploring long term care options. While Seniors Blue Book remains a neutral platform, we encourage families to use our local directory to find licensed professionals and elder care planning support in your area.Explore our full list of Senior Resources in Northern Colorado here: Northern Colorado Senior Resources Directory Long Term Care Planning Services Final Thoughts: Planning Today for Peace of Mind TomorrowPlanning for long term care isnt always easy, but its one of the most important steps you can take to protect your future and ease the burden on your loved ones. In a community like Northern Colorado, where quality care options are abundant, having the right financial tools in placelike long term care insurancecan make all the difference. For more support and local listings, explore our Northern Colorado directory and learn about your options today.
Understanding Long-Term Care Insurance: A Guide for Minneapolis Residents
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The policies are meant to help reduce the financial burden of extended care, which can quickly become expensive.Why Is Long-Term Care Insurance Important in Minneapolis?Minneapolis, like many other cities, is home to a large and growing senior population. As the baby boomer generation continues to age, the demand for long-term care services is expected to rise. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, the states senior population is projected to increase significantly in the coming decades, making it more important than ever to plan ahead for potential care needs.Long-term care insurance helps Minneapolis residents prepare for the possibility of needing assistance with daily activities as they age. It provides an extra layer of financial protection that can ensure seniors are not left with overwhelming costs for care.Benefits of Long-Term Care Insurance Financial Protection: Without long-term care insurance, the costs of care can be a significant financial burden. Having an LTCI policy can protect your assets and help cover care expenses. Choice and Control: With LTCI, individuals have more options when it comes to where they receive care. This means you can choose the setting that aligns with your preferences, whether its in-home care, an assisted living community, or a nursing facility. Preserves Family Resources: Long-term care insurance ensures that your family members aren't left financially strained by the cost of your care. It gives them peace of mind knowing youre covered. Customizable Plans: Long-term care insurance policies can often be tailored to fit your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you need coverage for a limited time or for an extended period, policies can be designed to provide the right level of care. When Should You Consider Long-Term Care Insurance?The best time to purchase long-term care insurance is before you need it. Ideally, you should start considering your options in your 50s or early 60s. At this age, you may still be healthy enough to qualify for a policy at a more affordable rate. The younger you are when you start the process, the better your chances are of securing comprehensive coverage at a reasonable price.However, even if you're older, it's still worthwhile to explore your options. Many companies offer policies with flexible options for those in their 70s or even early 80s.How to Choose the Right Long-Term Care Insurance Plan in Minneapolis Assess Your Needs: Consider what kind of care you may need in the future and how much coverage you would require. Each individuals situation is different, and a policy that suits one person may not be the best fit for another. Consult with a Financial Advisor: Long-term care insurance is a significant financial investment. A financial advisor can help you understand the different policy options available and recommend what fits your budget and needs. Compare Policies: Look at multiple insurance providers in the Minneapolis area to find the best rates and coverage options. Be sure to understand whats included in the policy and any exclusions or limitations. Check for Riders and Add-Ons: Some policies may offer additional benefits, such as inflation protection or coverage for specific types of care. Make sure to explore these options to ensure you're getting the best value for your premium. Local Resources in Minneapolis for Long-Term CareIf you live in Minneapolis and are looking into long-term care options, there are several resources available to help you navigate the process. Senior care managers, financial planners, and insurance brokers in the area can assist with finding the right long-term care insurance policy for you.For additional resources, check out the Senior Resources Directory for Minneapolis. You can find more information on local services and providers that can help with long-term care planning.Explore senior care options in Minneapolis: Senior Resources Directory - MinneapolisIf youre ready to start planning for long-term care, its a good idea to speak with an insurance agent or financial planner who specializes in senior care to understand your options better.For more information on available long-term care insurance policies and other senior resources in Minneapolis, visit the following directory: Long-Term Care Insurance - MinneapolisConclusion Long-term care insurance is an essential part of a comprehensive retirement plan. By starting the process early and choosing the right policy, you can ensure that you and your family are financially prepared for the future. In Minneapolis, the senior population is growing, and planning for long-term care is more important than ever. Explore your options today, and take the first step toward securing the care you need as you age.
3 Reasons You Might Benefit From a Medigap Plan
Seniors enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B might not know that there are additional forms of coverage available to fill the gaps left by Original Medicare. These types of plans are called Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap plans.Medigap plans are private insurance plans that help cover the out-of-pocket costs for Original Medicare by serving as a secondary form of insurance. Youll pay a monthly premium for this plan as long as you have it. There are 10 federally regulated Medigap plan types, each of which cover slightly different things.Although Medigap plans may benefit a great number of seniors on Medicare, many people pass over them because they dont think they need one.Here are three of the top reasons you might benefit from enrolling in a Medigap plan.1. You want to minimize your out-of-pocket healthcare costsThe most common reason seniors enroll in a Medigap plan is to minimize their potential out-of-pocket costs for healthcare. Under Original Medicare, you are usually required to pay deductibles, copayments and coinsurance when you seek treatment, on top of your monthly Part B premium. For outpatient services alone, youll pay 20 percent after you meet the deducible. These costs can add up significantly over time, especially because there is no out-of-pocket maximum for Parts A and B!Medigap plans cover some of these costs for you. The exact amount covered will depend on the type of Medigap plan you select, but most plans cover some or all of the coinsurance and copayments owed after Medicare pays its share.Enrolling in a Medigap plan also allows you to budget for healthcare more carefully. With only Original Medicare, your healthcare costs might vary dramatically based on how often you receive healthcare services. These fluctuating costs can be challenging for seniors who live on a fixed income. With a Medigap plan, youll pay a standard monthly premium, but the plan will pay for many of your out-of-pocket costs, allowing you to standardize your payments from month to month.2. You have preexisting health conditionsSeniors with preexisting health conditions know that they will have recurring healthcare needs after they enroll in Medicare. This means that your out-of-pocket healthcare costs will likely be higher than the average healthy seniors.Fortunately, seniors enrolling in Medicare for the first time are given a special, one-time enrollment period for Medigap plans. During this period, private insurance companies are not allowed to ask health questions to determine your eligibility or premiums. This means you are able to purchase a Medigap plan with guaranteed coverage, regardless of any preexisting conditions. If you do this, youll benefit from the cost coverage the plan provides for as long as you hold it.3. You want emergency health insurance overseasOne unique benefit of some Medigap plans is foreign travel emergency healthcare coverage. Original Medicare by itself may not cover healthcare services overseas. Should you get sick or injured on your trip, your Medigap plan will cover some of those costs for you.If you plan to travel internationally during retirement (as many seniors do), you may benefit from this type of Medigap plan.Are you interested in learning more about Medigap plans and the coverage they provide? PlanEnroll is ready to help! We represent a range of Medicare plans that can help you access the specific benefits and coverage you need.PlanEnroll is a brand operated by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC and used by its affiliated licensed insurance agencies that are certified to sell Medicare products. PlanEnroll is not endorsed by the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), or any other government agency.