My mother may need assisted living & the cost will eat up her assets in less than a year. Medicaid can step in but will she be left with nothing?

This is tough, I know. Medicaid allows a very small amount of money - I mean very small, to be kept in her checking account. Yes, her assets will be pretty much depleted before Medicaid steps in. Families nearly always end up supplementing the monthly allowance left, in order to buy clothing and other supplies.

Work with the Medicaid qualification people (generally through your Social Services office) and they can tell you how it all works. Each state is a little different. Good luck,
Carol