No. Medicare is strictly a health insurance program that covers costs related to illnesses and injuries (and, to some extent, their prevention). Based on a doctor’s recommendation, it will help pay for up to 100 days of rehabilitation or skilled nursing care after a significant health issue. But more extended stays, such as a permanent move into a nursing home, are not covered. What about Medicare Advantage? You can check to see if there’s a Medicare Advantage plan in your area that offers limited caregiving assistance. You may be able to find one that provides meals or pays for the installation of grab bars. A small number of so-called special needs plans offer some in-home support services. If a Medicare Advantage plan has a five-star rating, you may switch to it outside of the annual enrollment period. What about Medicaid? Medicaid pays for long-term nursing-home care, but only for people with low income and modest savings which can no longer handle basic daily tasks like dressing or feeding themselves. Gleckman says a good rule of thumb is that you likely qualify for Medicaid if you have less than $750 in income per month and less than $2,000 in financial assets (not counting a home). Call Kevin Leinum – your local Medicare Expert about what Medicare covers or how enrolling in a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement plan can improve your coverage and reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
