Do Memory Care Communities Accept Medicaid or Medicare?
Key Summary
Memory Care Communities may accept Medicare only under specific circumstances such as for medication, for set periods of time. Medicaid may be accepted at specific nursing homes for long-term care when private pay is not an option.
When a senior or their family member must decide whether Memory Care is the best solution, this invariably poses questions such as the following: How is this paid for? What are the costs? Is this something that can be accommodated by a nursing facility or is it more specialized? Does Medicaid cover dementia care, or does Medicare pay for Alzheimer’s care? These are just the first of many questions, and contemplating the answers alone may seem confusing.
In short, Memory Care Communities may accept Medicare only under specific circumstances such as for medication, for set periods of time. Medicaid may be accepted at specific nursing homes for long-term care when private pay is not an option. Clarifying these complex waters is one of the reasons you’ve turned to a trusted senior care resource. The team at Referah is here to help make understanding coverage options easy.
Because memory loss is generally a gradual process, there’s usually more time to research and find the perfect solution for your loved one, so you don't need to make the all-too-fast decisions that are sometimes required in response to a more acute medical condition. Many communities are properly and expertly envisioned to accommodate those in need of Memory Care. Our communities are inclusionary and we will assist you in your decision-making process.
Medicaid and Medicare for Memory Care Communities
Medicare is essentially an insurance program that’s primarily designed for those 65+ irrespective of their income. Medicare pays for in-hospital costs and goes into various other levels like “Part A, B, C, D” that can include a multitude of requirements, specifications, and medical provider fees. Medicare would cover a short-term, hospital stay. Psychological care and medication are also covered by Medicare (it can be used for medical expenses, but not for long-term Assisted Living).
In contrast, Medicaid is an assistance program, provided in collaboration by the federal government and individual states, for low-income patients or residents. Those participating in Medicaid generally do not pay any of the fees involved, though, in some instances, a small deductible is required. In the case of Memory Care, under this payment structure, it would cover Skilled Nursing over a long-term period. Private pay is the common payment structure for Memory Care, which you cannot use with Medicaid. If it is used, the senior would no longer live in an Assisted Living Community that has a Memory Care wing. They would instead move to a nursing home that may or may not have a Memory Care wing.
Referah has multiple pages that can give you more detailed explanations of the programs and amenities provided with Memory Care. View our article “What are the Best Memory Care Communities?” for more information on what Memory Care Communities have to offer.
Related Considerations
There are key differences to keep in mind when considering Memory Care vs. Other Senior Care Options. Seniors in need of Memory Care often have good physical abilities, and therefore, physical activities are encouraged, to improve overall quality of life. Regular physical and mental stimulation often slow down the rate of memory loss and result in a far more desirable outcome by keeping the brain as active as possible. Still, if a senior is at the point where they’re wandering or experiencing protracted periods of memory loss, assistance will be needed. In either circumstance, you will find Referah and our partner communities to be your most valued and trusted allies.
Find a Memory Care Community Near You
While navigating complex programs like Medicare and Medicaid may seem daunting, it is manageable with assistance from senior living professionals. No matter the situation, the team at Referah is here to help answer your questions and help you find the best path forward. There are Memory Care Communities within our network all around the U.S., and we look forward to helping you explore your options. Find a local Memory Care Community today to get started!