Do life estates work-as anyone dealt with a family trust.?

i'm worried that my mother might have to go into a nursing home..i'm trying to avoid this like the plaque.if my mother gos into a home. the state will place a lien on her home and assets. i am her caregiver..her child.i know that trust mechanisms maybe utilized along with a life estate which[may] be able to protect the property...ive cared for her for several years and live with her..the state has no mercy and wants money..they want the home my parents willed to me at my mothers death...please advise.