Understanding the differences between Medicaid and Medicare

How to Apply for Long-Term Care Medicaid in ColoradoApplying for Medicaid can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to long-term care. However, with the right guidance and resources, the process can be much smoother. This guide is designed for seniors, caregivers, and Colorado residents to help them understand how to apply for long-term care Medicaid in Colorado. Understanding Long-Term Care MedicaidLong-term care Medicaid provides financial assistance to those who need help with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. It covers care provided in various settings including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and even at home. Why You Shouldn't Apply AloneGiven the high volume of applications and the complexity of the process, we do not recommend submitting an application on your own. Mistakes can delay approval or result in denial. Should you choose to apply on your own, we will give you the information and tools you need during our free initial consultation with you. Schedule a free consultation here  - calendly.com/doinggoodforothers Steps to Apply for Long-Term Care Medicaid in ColoradoStep 1: Find The Applicants DHS OfficeThe first step in applying for Medicaid in Colorado is to find the applicants local Department of Human Services (DHS) office. This is where you will submit your financial application. Find the Applicants DHS office here - cdhs.colorado.gov/contact-your-county Step 2: Submit a Financial ApplicationOnce you have located your local DHS office, you will need to submit a financial application. This form will require detailed information about your income, assets, and expenses. Step 3: Determine Financial EligibilityBefore proceeding with the application, it's crucial to determine if you qualify financially for Medicaid or VA Aid & Attendance benefits. Strategies exist to access benefits while protecting your personal assets, and a Certified Medicaid Planner (CMP) can help you maximize your benefits. Find out if you qualify - doinggoodforothers.com/financialinformation Step 4: Schedule a Health AssessmentAfter qualifying financially, you will need to schedule a level of care assessment, also known as a health assessment, with the Applicants Single Entry Point. This evaluation will determine the level of care you require. Schedule a health assessment - hcfp.colorado.gov/case-management-agency-directory Step 5: Skip the Hassle of Applying Alone Schedule an AppointmentIf you find the application process overwhelming, you can skip figuring out how to apply on your own by scheduling an appointment with our experts.  Schedule an appointment with a Certified Medicaid Planner - calendly.com/doinggoodforothers Our 4-Step Process for Application AssuranceWe have developed a streamlined 4-step process to help you feel relief about your loved ones care and save money. 1. Schedule a Free Initial ConsultationLearn more about what we can do to preserve your assets by scheduling a free initial consultation. 2. Make a PlanThrough an assessment of your financial circumstances, we will create a roadmap of the best options for you. 3. Pick an OptionWe explore legitimate opportunities to preserve your assets. 4. Gain BenefitsSelect the best option, and we will complete a successful application for gained benefits. Applying for long-term care Medicaid in Colorado doesn't have to be stressful. By following these steps and seeking professional guidance, you can ensure a smoother application process and maximize your benefits.For personalized assistance, schedule a free consultation with one of our Certified Medicaid Planners (CMP) today. Learn more and schedule now! - calendly.com/doinggoodforothers

What is Medicare?Medicare is a federal health insurance program that gives you access to specific coverage and benefits. Medicare is different from health insurance you may have had before. It offers you a variety of coverage options and it has key enrollment dates and guidelines you need to follow. Were here to help you make sense of it all. How is Medicare Different From Other Health Insurance?You may be surprised at the differences between Medicare and other types of health insurance. If youve had health coverage through your employer, your plan likely included medical and prescription drug coverage, along with other benefits. It also may have covered both you and your spouse.Medicare only covers one person at a time. This means you and your spouse must enroll separately. In addition, Medicare gives you options that can make it possible to receive your benefits in a variety of different ways.You can:       Choose hospital and medical coverage delivered through the federal government.       Add prescription drug coverage delivered through a private company.       Purchase a supplemental insurance policy from a private insurer that can help cover some of the costs.       Choose coverage from a private insurer that combines hospital, medical and often prescription drug coverage into one plan.In short, with Medicare you can choose coverage that fits your needs, budget and lifestyle. We can help you take full advantage of that freedom. Who is Eligible for Medicare?      - Age 65+      - Under age 65 with certain disabilities      - Have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) When and How Do I Apply?If youre like most people, youll enroll in Medicare around the time you turn 65. Your Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes the month you turn 65 and ends three months after that birthday.Keep in mind that if you dont get Medicare during this Initial Enrollment Period, you may have to pay Medicare Part B or Part D late enrollment penalties. Plus, you could be missing out on coverage and benefits that can help protect your health and finances. Thats why its generally a good idea to enroll as soon you can. How you enroll generally depends on if youre getting benefits from Social Security, the Railroad Retirement Board or the Office of Personnel Management.Contact me today at 724-554-7989 for a FREE consultation.  

Happiness At Any AgeStart your journey to joy now in your 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and beyond with these simple and effective exercises, strategies, and positive insights.Living happily in any decade involves an open heart, open mind, and appreciation for the joy in the journey. While everyone is unique, heres a guide to enjoy life in your 20s, 40s, 60s, 80s, and beyond.In your 20s & 30s Embrace uncertainty. This is the time for trial and error. Try new things and take risks, even if they feel scary. Build connections. Your social network can be a source of support, advice, and shared experiences both now and as you get older. Learn how to learn. Develop a growth mindset. Teach yourself that its ok to feel silly as you learn new things. Itll set the stage for lifelong learning. Build healthy habits. Establish healthy habits early. Try to move your body, eat well, and sleep well. In your 40s & 50s Balance work and life. Prioritize time with your family and friends. Work hard in your professional life. But don't forget to find joy in the little things. Plan your finances. Establish good financial habits. Save and invest in your future. Spend less than you make. Financial stability contributes to your peace of mind. Practice gratitude. Take time to appreciate what you have. Thank those who help you and contribute to others in a positive way. Build a mindset that's all about gratitude. Be open to change. Life is always changing, so it's a good idea to be open to all the curves along the way. Being able to adapt to everyday life is a skill that will serve you well in the future. In your 60s & 70s Reassess your goals. That thing you always wanted to do one day? Do it now. Adjust and modify your goals to include the steps itll take to reach that dream. Start working on writing that book, taking that trip, or even reaching a health and wellness goal to keep a positive mental attitude going. Add in some adventure. Remember, theres no age limit to new adventures. Happy thoughts and actions can even make you more likely to try new things. Go for new activities, try new recipes, or make new friends as an adult. These ideas keep your sense of play alive and well. Nurture old and new relationships. Improve relationships by focusing less on long-held disagreements. You don't get any points for winning arguments. Letting go of the past paired with self-compassion exercises can help you move forward. Mentor others patiently. Share your experiences and wisdom with others. Remember to be kind and patient by listening without judgment and putting yourself in their shoes. Someone out may need you to guide them in a way that only you're capable of. In your 80s & 90sMake time for the small things. Love spending time with your family? Make an effort to engage in the small activities you enjoy every weekor even daily! This can lead to an overall positive mental attitude later in life.Keep learning. Nows the time to try that new hobby youve always wanted to or pick up an old one. Even making friends as an adult or participating at a senior center near you can lead to a sense of joy. Plus, learning new skills keeps your brain sharp.Be kind to yourself. Listen to your body and give it what it needs. Go for a quick walk outside. Eat healthy foods. Embrace each day as a chance to live the life you desire, regardless of your age.  This article is contributed by Devoted Health.  Contact your local Devoted Health Representative at 251-391-3788 to find out how you could save with a Medicare Advantage Plan.