This is another common misconception. In most cases, the home is considered an exempt asset for purposes of Medicaid eligibility. However, the real problem arises when a Medicaid recipient dies and the State of Ohio enforces its right to reimbursement, referred to as estate recovery. In short, a Medicaid recipient may not lose his or her home during their life. However, proper planning is necessary if preserving the home for the family is a priority.