I'm looking for a facility for my mom (96, Alzheimer's). She needs skilled nursing. What to do if she doesn't qualify for Medicaid?

More than likely she can qualify for Medicaid. I think you should speak to the social worker (s) in each of the homes because they are very familiar with the Medicaid qualifications in your state.

There's a difference between not qualifying now and never qualifying. If she doesn't qualify for Medicaid now, and her means are as meager as you say, she will eventually once she's in a facility and has been private paying. If she owns a house, Medicaid will put a lien on it as part of the payment for her care. It's ok to talk to social workers about it but they aren't estate planners or elder law attorneys so they can't (and shouldn't) advise your mom on how to move forward. Her pension may be the sticking point. Again, best to consult an elder law attorney experienced with the Medicaid application process.

She will qualify for Medicaid is she needs skilled nursing and has run out of money. What makes you think she won't qualify? If she has a couple of months of savings to pay for the NH, she pays down her account and then Medicaid will take over. You say "I can only do a couple months of private pay", I hope you mean "she". You shouldn't be paying your own money.