Start Here: Immediate First Steps

• List monthly income and essentials  -Social Security, pension, disability benefits, existing savings. Identify non-negotiable expenses.
• Document care needs – Activities of Daily Living (bathing, dressing, mobility, eating, toileting) and any memory or safety concerns.
• Gather paperwork – ID, insurance cards, medication list, power of attorney, and past two to three months of bank statements (often needed for applications).
• Call for guidance – Speak with a local care provider like Keepsake Kottage to understand options that match both care needs and budget.

Medicaid & Community-Based Supports

Medicaid is the primary safety net for seniors with limited income and assets. In many cases, programs are designed to support care in community settings when medically appropriate. Eligibility depends on financial and clinical criteria.

• Income and assets – Applicants must meet specific limits; rules differ based on marital status and program.
• Functional need – An assessment typically confirms the level of assistance required.
• Community-based services – Some programs help seniors receive services outside a nursing facility when possible.

Tip: If you think you’re close to qualifying, start the application process early. If approved, benefits may help cover portions of care that reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Veterans’ Benefits

Eligible veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for programs that can offset long-term care expenses. Depending on eligibility, benefits can be applied toward services provided in community settings, including assisted living.

Tip: Have discharge papers (DD-214) ready and speak with a veterans’ service representative. Ask how benefits coordinate with other coverage.

Long-Term Care Insurance (If You Have a Policy)

If a long-term care insurance (LTCI) policy exists, review it carefully. Many policies reimburse eligible services in licensed assisted living once benefit triggers are met (for example, help needed with two or more Activities of Daily Living or a cognitive impairment diagnosis). Confirm….

• Elimination period (waiting days before benefits pay)
• Daily/monthly benefit maximums
• Benefit period or total pool of money
• Required paperwork for claims

Local & Nonprofit Assistance in Wichita

When funds are limited, a patchwork of community resources can help bridge gaps…

• Area Agencies on Aging – Guidance on benefits, caregiver support, and referrals.
• Senior centers & meal programs – Reduce food costs and offer wellness checks.
• Utility or housing assistance – City and nonprofit programs may free up funds for care.
• Faith and volunteer networks – Transportation, friendly visits, and respite help.

Tip: None of these replace assisted living, but together they can reduce overall expenses and make a modest budget work harder.

Ways to Stretch a Limited Budget

• Right-size the apartment – Smaller rooms often cost less and still provide the same care services.
• Share a suite (when available) – Roommates can lower housing costs while keeping access to care.
• Select only needed services – Tailor the care plan to essentials and add services later if needs change.
• Leverage benefits together – Combine Social Security income with any veterans’ or insurance benefits.
• Short-stay or respite transitions – Start with a short stay to stabilize care while applications are processed.
• Family cost-sharing – Some families pool modest monthly contributions to close small gaps.

How Keepsake Kottage Helps Families Plan

Keepsake Kottage Home Plus is a licensed, home-like assisted living option in Wichita. We help families….

• Clarify care needs and estimate realistic costs
• Provide documentation required for benefits or insurance claims
• Build flexible service plans that fit tight budgets
• Coordinate with community resources that lower out-of-pocket expenses

Let’s talk through your situation: 8428 W 13th St N, Ste 130, Wichita, KS  |  (316) 650-4526

Note: This article is general information, not financial or legal advice. For decisions about eligibility and asset rules, consult qualified professionals.

FAQs: Paying for Assisted Living With Limited Funds