Elder Care in Texas
State-specific Medicaid information, SHIP counseling contacts, and elder care resources for Texas residents.
📋 Medicaid in Texas
Texas Medicaid is administered by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Texas has several Medicaid programs relevant to elder care. STAR+PLUS is the primary managed care program for adults who are elderly or have disabilities — it provides both health care and long-term services and supports. Texas also has several home and community-based service (HCBS) waivers, including the Community First Choice program. Texas Medicaid has income and asset eligibility requirements. Texas has a large population and a varied healthcare landscape. The state has significant wait lists for some Medicaid waiver programs, which makes planning ahead especially important.
🏥 Free Medicare Counseling (SHIP)
Texas provides free Medicare counseling through its SHIP program. Texas SHIP counselors help Texans understand Medicare options, compare prescription drug plans, identify programs that help with Medicare costs, and navigate Medicare questions. The program operates through a network of community-based organizations across the state and is funded by the federal government.
🤝 Area Agency on Aging
Texas has Area Agencies on Aging serving all regions of the state. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission oversees aging services. Local AAAs provide services including information and assistance, home-delivered meals, transportation, caregiver support, and legal assistance referrals. The Texas Access to Justice Foundation supports legal aid services for low-income Texans, including seniors. The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) network helps connect Texans to long-term care options.
💡 Things Families in Texas Should Know
- 1Texas Medicaid has significant wait lists for some home and community-based service waivers — planning early is especially important in Texas.
- 2Texas has a 60-month Medicaid look-back period for nursing facility care.
- 3Texas is a large state with significant regional variation in care costs and available services.
- 4The STAR+PLUS program is Texas's primary Medicaid managed care program for elderly and disabled individuals — understanding how it works is important.
- 5Texas has no state income tax, but property taxes can be a significant consideration for seniors on fixed incomes.
- 6Texas offers a homestead exemption for property taxes that benefits older homeowners — understanding available tax exemptions is worthwhile.
Find an Elder Law Professional in Texas
Browse our directory of elder law attorneys, Medicaid planners, and geriatric care managers serving Texas.
This information is for general educational purposes. Texas Medicaid programs and eligibility rules change. Always verify with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission or a qualified professional.
Important: Medicaid Information Disclaimer
Medicaid rules, eligibility requirements, and programs vary significantly by state and change frequently. This information is educational only and not legal or financial advice. Do not make decisions about asset transfers, applications, or planning based solely on this content. Consult with a licensed elder law attorney or Medicaid specialist in your state.