Massachusetts - Greater Boston

When health issues arise that require a high level of care, some folks are finding success with receiving Medicaid (known as MassHealth in Massachusetts) home care instead of moving to a nursing home. There are different qualifications to be eligible for home care versus nursing home care we broke down the differences.Home CareWhen a loved one needs nursing home level care but would like to remain living at home, the MassHealth Frail Elder Waiver (FEW) program is a great option. Although infrequent, there are instances where elders are receiving free 24-hour care at home. When not eligible to receive full 24-hours of care, the individual may need to supplement with private care for the remaining hours of the day.Asset and Income LimitsIn 2021, the monthly asset limit for an individual receiving FEW services is $2,000 for an individual, and $3,000 for a married couple, when both are receiving FEW services. (Note: This does NOT mean you have to spend down to nothing before applying for MassHealth. See Medicaid Applications in Massachusetts: When DIY is a Don't for more.)Additionally, there is an income limit. For 2021, the income limit is $2,382.00. This is your GROSS income limit, meaning the income you get each month prior to any tax or health insurance deductions.If an individual's income is over the monthly limit, it is still possible to receive FEW services. MassHealth will determine a deductible amount which will be due every six months. The deductibles can be very high at times, and quite burdensome, however if you are organized and prepared, they can be managed.Nursing Home CareSometimes staying at home is not appropriate or safe, and in these circumstances, a nursing home may be the next logical step. Having MassHealth pay for nursing home care is a great benefit, as private payment to a nursing home can cost around $450 per day.Asset and Income LimitsTo receive nursing home benefits, there is still a monthly $2,000 asset limit per individual.The income limit differs from the FEW services mentioned above. The individual in the nursing home is required to pay a co-pay to the nursing home. This co-pay is called the Patient Paid Amount (PPA). The PPA is calculated by taking the individuals monthly income, deducting any health insurance premiums, and deducting a $72.80 personal needs allowance. In situations where a married couple has one spouse in the nursing home (referred to as the institutional spouse) and the other healthy and at home (the community spouse), the community spouse may be able to keep some of the institutional spouse's income to help pay for the community spouse's expenses at home.The rules to qualify for MassHealth and other government programs available to seniors in need of care can be quite confusing and complicated. Working with an elder law attorney can help you decide if this option is right for you. To find out what other benefits may be available to seniors, download our eBook "Understanding Benefits for Seniors".Founded by nurse attorney and with offices in Acton, Burlington, and Sudbury, Massachusetts, Generations Law Group helps families navigate the complex areas of estate planning, elder law, and probate to inform and protect loved ones of every generation.

As our society progresses into the digital age, senior citizens are finding themselves increasingly targeted by financial scams. Whether its through deceptive phone calls, fraudulent emails or sophisticated online productions, older adults are often seen as easy prey for scammers looking to exploit their trust and vulnerability. However, there are ways that friends and family continue protecting seniors from scams through proactive collaboration. The consequences of falling victim to these scams can be financially and emotionally devastating, misleading seniors to give up their hard-earned savings and leaving them feeling isolated and betrayed. This financial deception can have long-term consequences on seniors who have been scammed. In this blog, well explore the prevalence of financial fraud cases targeting seniors, the tactics used by scammers and most importantly, how we can work together to protect elderly loved ones from falling victim to crimes against seniors. Common Types of Financial Deception Retirement scams result in a loss of more than $28 billion each year in the United States. Senior identity theft scams come in a variety of forms, such as identity theft, sweepstakes and lottery scams, and romance scams. Many scams come to senior citizens unsolicited a scammer calls or sends correspondence unprompted and uses a sense of urgency before seniors realize they have been taken advantage of. One of the most common financial crimes against the elderly involves sweepstakes or lottery scams informing them that they have received an unexpected windfall and must act immediately to ensure that they receive the winnings. This tactic is often to secure money through gift card purchases or to access bank accounts or debit cards. The lure of romance scams In 2020, romance scams accounted for the highest total reported losses among all scams reported to the Federal Trade Commission. Older adults are especially susceptible to romance scams, as the number of adults ages 55-64 who reported participating in online dating applications has doubled over the last few years. In 2020, seniors lost more than $139 million in relationship scams alone. Seniors are often at risk for isolation, loneliness and depression, and romance scams may present a new opportunity for a connection. People perpetrating these scams know the touchpoints to engage seniors in romantic interludes. Utilizing flattery and compliments makes victims feel special, lowering their defenses and making them more susceptible to the sales pitch (or scam). Scammers work to establish trust quickly, and then a sense of urgency emerges suddenly, the person on the other end of the phone needs a quick loan, or they are stranded and need to get home. These moments are the perfect opportunities for scammers to pounce on unsuspecting victims.Retirement scams are often rooted in false promises something that you will see throughout many crimes against seniors. Scammers prey on the basic needs and desires of every human the opportunity for more money or a late-in-life love. Seniors may lack technological familiarity and be susceptible to scams that prey on their trust. Because seniors do not navigate technology as younger generations do, they can be more vulnerable when a scammer presents themselves as an authority figure, such as a police officer or government official requesting information. Recognizing and Avoiding Financial Scams To protect loved ones against scams, have a conversation with them so that they know what kind of red flags to notice. Crimes against the elderly happen fairly quickly, based on a sense of urgency and misplaced trust. One of the first red flags to consider is that unsolicited phone calls or emails should be treated with extreme caution. If it sounds too good to be true, it often is. Many people get caught up in the get rich quick ideas that scammers often present. Seniors should watch out for these surprise offers and always verify the identity of callers when contacted. Scammers do not want to answer questions; they just want to take advantage of seniors. As soon as you try to uncover the truth, the scammer will often end the communication. Do not release personal information to people you do not know In addition, anyone who contacts you and requests personal information should also be thoroughly vetted for the need for that particular information. Businesses and organizations such as banks and the IRS have safety protocols in place to protect sensitive information, so they will not call you to request your account information directly. Its already known to them if you are a customer. Do not release this information, including bank account numbers, debit card numbers and PINs. This type of financial identity fraud is one of the easiest ways for scammers to access seniors assets. Do not send money to people you dont personally know Further protect yourself by not transferring or wiring money through financial services such as Western Union, which can be used worldwide. You may not be completely aware of who you are paying. Even more, seniors have fallen prey to losing an additional $12 million each year through cryptocurrency scams. Cryptocurrency is a relatively new form of payment that can be confusing if you are not familiar with it, and it can also be used worldwide. Once its been paid, there is no recourse to get it back. Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics Life in 2024 moves very quickly, but beware of high-urgency tactics, such limited-time offers or limited quantities, which lowers seniors guards when it comes to taking the time to consider the proposition. During this time, scammers may brush off or diminish older adults objections or questions, pressing for an immediate resolution to the offer, which often includes accessing financial information. Ask for help from trusted professionals and close family members Many seniors do not report scam attempts or money loss because of embarrassment. When looking back after you have been scammed, the concerning red flags may be easier to see after you are out of the situation. If you have questions about the validity of an offer, purchase or unexpected romance, consult with trusted family members or financial advisors before releasing information or exchanging money. Family members should offer comfort and emotional assistance after loved ones have been scammed. It is often an embarrassing stigma to realize you have been scammed, paired with the personal financial deception as well. Friends and family members should lend an understanding ear and continue conversations and education to prevent further scams. Resources and reporting For elderly fraud protection and ongoing scams, The National Elder Fraud Hotline staffs compassionate and knowledgeable support specialists who can help older adults navigate the confusion and loss after fraud. This free service is available to all senior citizens and can be a valuable resource. When calling the Elder Fraud Hotline, seniors will reach a case manager who will help them through the reporting process at the federal, state and local levels. They will also be connected with other resources on a case-by-case basis. Additionally, protect yourself by investing in financial fraud prevention services. Research the best identity theft protection for seniors and make the decision that is right for your family. Attend locally hosted events from banks, nonprofit organizations and our Anthology communities such as Anthology of King of Prussia, Anthology of Millis and Anthology of Farmington Hills, which host scam prevention discussions and offer resources for residents to protect themselves from crimes against seniors. In conclusion, as we navigate the increasingly complex landscape of financial scams targeting the elderly, one of the most powerful tools at our disposal is continuing education. By empowering seniors with knowledge about common scams, red flags to watch for and strategies to protect themselves, we not only enhance their financial literacy but also bolster their ability to safeguard their hard-earned assets. As advocates for the well-being of our senior loved ones and community members, Anthology communities commit to providing ongoing education and support. Through collaboration and knowledge, we can help ensure that our residents remain vigilant, informed and resilient against financial exploitation.

Our MobilityWorks@home experts are often asked, Should I get a wheelchair ramp or a lift for my home? The answer depends on factors such as the users mobility, staircase height and number of floors, to name a few. While our trained technicians can help you choose which type of mobility solution is right for your needs, the overview below discusses a few key benefits and differences that can help guide your decision.Wheelchair RampsWheelchair ramps are designed for your specific space and include pre-assembled ramps, handrails and platforms. They do require some effort to navigate, unlike vertical platform lifts, and as a result, are better suited for scooter and power wheelchair users. They can be configured for almost any site, and are both cost-effective and low maintenance depending on the amount of ramp needed. Because they come pre-assembled, installing a wheelchair ramp is typically a quick and easy process that doesnt require anchoring into concrete footings or pads. Wheelchair ramps sold through MobilityWorks@home have a built-in anti-slip surface and do not rust or warp, making them a durable mobility solution.Wheelchair Ramp BenefitsBest for low-rise environmentsIdeal for scooter or power wheelchair usersEasy installationLow maintenance750-pound weight capacityCost-effectiveVertical Platform LiftsVertical platform lifts resemble an elevator with a platform that can be raised and lowered to transport a user safely to another floor. While they are often seen in businesses, churches, and schools, they are also often used outside residential homes as a porch lift. These lifts are operated mechanically and require little effort from the user, making them an easy-to-use option for almost anyone in need of mobility assistance. They are more effective than wheelchair ramps in high-rise environments involving a large staircase or multiple levels that need to be accessed. Installing a vertical platform lift does require a concrete pad toanchor the equipment, making the installation process more complex than that of a wheelchair ramp.Vertical Platform Lift BenefitsBest for high-rise environmentsEasy to operateSuitable for almost anyone, including manual wheelchair usersWeather-protected controls and switches750-pound weight capacityRequires less space than a wheelchair rampCustomized to Your Specific NeedsThere is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to accessing your home safely and comfortably. Thats why our MobilityWorks@home technicians are trained to find the wheelchair ramp or lift that fits your home and your needs. Give us a call or contact us today so we can help you stay in the home you love.

 Entrusting the care of your loved one (or yourself!) to someone else can be nerve-racking. But it can also improve their quality of life and provide care partners with a much-needed break.  So how do you choose the best caregiver for your senior loved one? Asking the right questions will help. Here are six questions to ask a home health provider before hiring one.1. What Days and Hours Are Home Health Services Available? A potential home health providers availability is important information when deciding which home health provider to hire. Think about when you most need help and ask whether caregivers are available during those hours.  You may need a very different schedule if you want help with appointments or care for your loved one while you work than if you want a break on the weekends. Its important to make sure your schedule aligns.2. Are They Willing to Show All Appropriate Documentation? Before hiring a home health provider, its important to know they are up to date on all required documentation. This includes things like insurance, CPR and first-aid certifications, required immunizations, certifications related to your loved ones condition, and background checks on employees.  Your senior loved ones safety is critical, so ensuring all appropriate documentation is in order is your best assurance that the home health provider you are considering is a reputable agency that follows the law.3. What Services Do They Provide? Some home health agencies mainly focus on medical care. Others mostly help with personal care and assistance around the home. Still others, like Celtic Angels Home Health Care, offer a variety of medical, personal, and homemaking services. Make sure your needs align with the services the home health provider offers. 4. How Is Transportation Handled? If you need a caregiver to help with your loved ones transportation to things like medical appointments, outings, or shopping trips, its a good idea to ask how the home health provider handles transportation. Do they use company cars, their personal vehicles, or will they drive yours?  Be sure to ask about expenses, too. For example, is the cost of transportation included in their fee, or will you be expected to reimburse the home health provider for gas or mileage? 5. What Experience Do They Have with Your Loved Ones Conditions? Its important that you feel confident in the care a home health provider will give to your senior loved one, so be sure to ask about their experience caring for people with your loved ones conditions.  For example, do they have experience caring for people with dementia, Alzheimers, or Parkinsons Disease? Heart condition? Diabetes? Are they able to perform all the necessary tasks needed to care for your loved one? Gather all the information you need to feel comfortable with a provider before making a decision to hire one. 6. How Do You Handle Difficult Situations, Like Care Refusal? Sometimes, as seniors age, they develop conditions that make caring for them difficult. For example, seniors with cognitive disorders, like dementia and Alzheimers disease, often refuse care.  Ask how caregivers would handle these situations. Their answers will give you an idea of how they will approach your senior loved ones care.  Would you like to learn more about Celtic Angels Home Health Care and the services we provide? Were happy to answer all your questions! Contact Us today to get started.   By Maria Burke, RN, Owner Celtic Angels Home Health Care