Tough Times for Low-Income Seniors Hoping to Qualify for Nursing Homes

TennCare officials say it’s getting more difficult for low-income seniors to qualify for nursing homes and other services. Officials say under old rules, elderly people could qualify for up to $55,000 to pay for a nursing home, adult day care or assisted living if they weren’t able to care for themselves. Under rules that began on July 1, TennCare will take an overall assessment of a person’s need before that level of funding is allocated.  TennCare spokeswoman Kelly Gunderson says those who don’t qualify for the maximum assessment can still get up to $15,000 per year.  She says those who think they need more can ask their health care coordinator for another assessment.