Why do typical care facilities charge me about $10,000 per month but they only bill Medicaid for about $2,000 per month?

Why do you think that nursing home actually costs $2000. per month?

Here is what I've learned. The government has negotiated (or mandated) a fee schedule with the nursing homes. Since it is usually much lower than the nursing homes want it to be they are forced make up the shortfall by increasing the amount for those who pay privately. This is why some facilities are reluctant to accept medicaid residents. When the time comes for medicaid to recover their costs it will only be for the amount they have paid out.

Warren631, I understand that you are scared right now, and that you are doing your homework. You have found many solid replies on the AC Forum, and I hope this helps you when you face the Social Worker meeting on Tuesday, but don't freak out yet. There are many different scenarios that are yet to take place with your Wife and her care plan. They may be able to get her settled on a new set of meds that will make her manageable enough for you to bring her back home, you may beed to hire someone for the night watch, so that you can get good rest, and continue caring for her at home, and during the day time hours. It may be decided that she is better off in Memory Care for now, or indefinitely, but right now, probably the best thing that you can do is see an Elder Care Attorney, explain your circumstances, and ask him what is the best thing to do with regards to your combined assets. There may well be ways in which you can protect these, but I do know for certain, that they cannot force you into selling your home. You are the Community Spouse, and you have rights to. Yes, if Medicaid enters into the picture, they might be able to put a lean on your property to regain what they pay out long term, but you will still retain your portion of monthly monies, as they cannot impoverish you, and you will still be able to live there indefinitely. Everything is up in the air, until Tuesdays meeting, so go into that meeting with open eyes and ears, listen to what they propose, and go from there. The financials will work out. Try ti take someone whom you trust, to go to the meeting with you, as a second set of eyes. Good luck!