When people aren’t familiar with an idea, they tend to guess what it involves. Sometimes, they come close to the truth, whereas at other times they invent completely fictitious scenarios. This is how myths and rumors begin, and over time, they start to take on a life of their own, causing other people to adopt the same misconceptions. March 11 is Debunking Day, so there’s no better time to tackle three common myths related to Medicaid. MYTH 1: MEDICAID IS ONLY FOR THOSE WITH LIMITED MEANS. One of the most well-known features of Medicaid is that one needs to meet asset and income limits to qualify. While this is true, strategies are available that allow people of all backgrounds and levels of wealth to become eligible. It often requires proper planning and proactive measures to avoid conflicts with the five-year lookback period. Still, it is possible for just about anyone to qualify for Medicaid coverage. MYTH 2: MEDICARE WILL COVER MY LONG-TERM CARE COSTS. Most Americans are aware they will automatically become eligible for Medicare coverage upon turning 65. However, there are just as many misconceptions about Medicare as there are about Medicaid. One of which is that Medicare covers long-term care costs. That’s simply not true. Medicare will sometimes cover the first 100 days someone spends in a nursing home or assisted care facility, provided they have a qualifying hospital stay beforehand. However, they will drop coverage as soon as they believe the illness is chronic. This could be at the 100-day mark, or it could be after a week or two. Medicaid is your best option for long-term care needs, outside of the costly long-term care insurance route. MYTH 3: GIVING AWAY ASSETS WILL HELP YOU QUALIFY FOR MEDICAID. When people realize they need Medicaid coverage, they’ll often panic-sell or give away most of their assets to become eligible. However, you have to remember the five-year lookback period. Doing this will trigger penalties and could delay your eligibility. Further, gifting could create new tax implications for your heirs. If you’re worried about not qualifying due to your assets, ask us about Medicaid Protection Trusts. Medicaid Myths Busted What You Really Need to Know
Technology is part of almost every moment of our lives, from the instant our alarms buzz to wake us up to late- night scrolling before bed. But this connectivity comes at a cost. Excessive use of social media and devices can cause problems, from eye strain and physical pain to lower self- confidence and increased mental health issues. Our gadgets and tech tools are here to stay, but avoiding overuse is crucial. PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS Social media, in particular, can have detrimental effects on our mental health, instilling poor body image and other negative feelings. Editing selfies to perfection, receiving mean comments, and following posts that promote a specific ideal weight can all lead us to feel “less than.” Studies have also found that heavy use of social media increases the risk of depression. People may feel as if they’re missing out or have wasted time; they also may be exposed to cyberbullying. PHYSICAL EFFECTS The small screens of tablets, smartphones, and even laptops we stare at for hours every day can lead to eyestrain, headaches, and a feeling of fatigue. If you work a desk job or use the computer frequently, try the 20-20-20 rule. After 20 minutes of screen time, look away for 20 seconds at something 20 feet away. Technology can also interfere with sleep if we look at our phones too close to bedtime. Consider setting those devices aside at least an hour before bed and engaging in a relaxing activity, such as taking a bath or reading a book. EFFECTS ON CHILDREN Since children’s brains are still developing, young people can experience even more negative effects of technology. Children who look at their screens for more than two hours a day have a greater risk of ADHD and trouble concentrating. Technology can lead to stress, poor social skills, and expose children and teens to harmful adult content. With overexposure to short content like TikTok videos, children can develop a short attention span. Scrolling Into Stress The Hidden Costs of Constant Screen Time
Technology is a powerful tool, but it’s crucial to find a balance to avoid the digital downsides.
2 SiegelLawGroup.com
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