When a spouse is admitted to a nursing home, what can the remaining spouse expect to keep?

When a spouse is admitted to a nursing home, the remaining spouse can expect to retain the family home and personal property. This is rooted in laws aimed at protecting the well-being of the community spouse—the spouse who remains in the community. The intention is to ensure that the non-institutionalized spouse is not left destitute while their partner receives care.

In many cases, laws allow the community spouse to maintain ownership of the family home as it is considered a necessary asset for living. This home serves not only as a place of residence but also as a source of emotional stability during a challenging time. Additionally, personal property, such as clothing and household items, is generally not subject to liquidation for the spouse in a nursing home.

The other options do not accurately reflect the standard protections afforded to the community spouse. Only cash savings, all assets being liquidated, and only the car do not take into account the legal provisions designed to safeguard the remaining spouse's financial security and living arrangements. Therefore, maintaining the family home and personal property is a critical element of supporting the community spouse during such circumstances.