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Modern Estate Planning Blog

Elder Law & Special Needs Planning

Pathways For Older Adults to Afford Assisted Living and Memory Care

November 12, 2024

Featuring Debra Draves from Master Care, in conversation with Elder Law Attorney Heather Chubb

Accessing affordable assisted living and memory care can feel overwhelming—especially for families navigating the complex healthcare system here in Sacramento. That’s why I invited Debra Draves from Master Care to join me for a straightforward conversation about new pathways for older adults to get the care they need without breaking the bank.

What Is CalAIM and How Does It Help?

Heather Chubb: “Debra, thanks so much for joining me today. Let’s start simple—what exactly is CalAIM, and how is it making assisted living and memory care more accessible?”

Debra Draves: “Thanks, Heather. CalAIM is a program through Medi-Cal managed care that shifts funding from expensive skilled nursing facilities to lower levels of care like assisted living and memory care. It’s designed to improve quality of life for seniors while using resources more efficiently.”

Who Qualifies for This Program?

Heather: “Who can participate? What are the eligibility requirements?”

Debra: “To qualify, individuals must be enrolled in a Medi-Cal managed care plan like Anthem Blue Cross or HealthNet. They should have some income—usually Social Security or a pension—and be willing to contribute about 90% of that income toward room and board. The rest is covered by the managed care plan.”

Can Participants Stay in Sacramento?

Heather: “A lot of families worry about having to move far from home. Can people stay in Sacramento for this program?”

Debra: “Absolutely! As long as there’s a managed care plan and assisted living providers available in the county—which Sacramento has—the participant can remain local. Plus, the program helps prevent eviction for those who’ve run out of funds.”

Is There a Waiting List?

Heather: “Many programs have long waitlists. What’s the situation here?”

Debra: “No waiting list at all. It’s available immediately to those who qualify, making it a timely resource for families in need.”

How Can Families Learn More?

Heather: “If someone wants to explore this option, what should they do?”

Debra: “The first step is to contact Master Care directly. Our intake team will help run eligibility and guide families through the process. It’s a simple call that can open doors to critical care.”

💬 Need Help Navigating Assisted Living or Memory Care?

If you or a loved one are looking for affordable assisted living or memory care options in Sacramento, Master Care can guide you through the CalAIM program and other resources available.

📞 Call Master Care: (855) 836-6355

And if you want legal help to protect your family’s interests or plan for long-term care costs, call Chubb Law Firm PC at (916) 241-9661 for a discovery meeting.

You don’t have to face these challenges alone. We’re here to help.

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CLIENT Story

My wife and I have some quite large complexities both in our individual preferences and the construct of our life. When planning for our trust, Heather took the time to hear EVERYTHING we said. The trust which Heather formed for our family took all our concerns into account. When everything was said and done, we received a trust which, by design, is extremely personal to our circumstance. We also are delighted to have Heather to be part of our team of advocates to help when the time comes.
Jon

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