Does Insurance or Medicare Pay for Memory Care?

We understand.

The world of health insurance and Medicare can be confusing. If someone you love needs to transition into memory care living, you’re probably wondering if insurance or Medicare will pay for it.

While every case is different—and you should check with your representatives to confirm coverage—we’re happy to provide this basic overview of what to expect Medicare or your insurance to pay for memory care.

Will Medicare Pay for Memory Care?

Medicare will not cover long-term care that is primarily custodial, like that seen in a Memory Care Center.

But it will cover planning services for those who have received a recent diagnosis of dementia.

What are Planning Services?

These enable you to learn about clinical trials, community services and medical as well as non-medical options to help treat the condition.

What Will Medicare Cover?

Medicare will cover inpatient hospital care, and in addition, it can cover some physician fees or medical items for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias—provided they are 65 or older.

Will Medicare Pay for Skilled Nursing Home Care?

Medicare will pay for up to 100 days—but only under limited conditions.

When Can I Get Medicare?

This federal health insurance is for those who are 65 or older and are getting their Social Security. You can get benefits when you’re younger than 65, but only if you’re on disability. You’ve had to receive disability benefits for 24 months.

There are penalties if you don’t sign up for Medicare within a certain time frame of turning 65.

Would you like more information on Medicare as it relates to Alzheimer’s and other dementias? Review this useful information from the Alzheimer’s Association.

Medigap Can Be an Option

This is used to supplement your Medicare coverage. However, it’s important to remember that this is a private insurance policy. It’s important for helping pay for deductibles and copays.

However, as with any plan, it’s important to do your own research and see if it is worth the investment for you. Be aware that plans that offer more coverage will also be more expensive.

Long-Term Care Insurance for Memory Care Living

Many people use this as an option to help pay for Alzheimer’s or dementia care.

In order to receive long-term care insurance, you must purchase it before a dementia diagnosis or before you start exhibiting symptoms of dementia.

Before you buy long-term care insurance, it’s important that you thoroughly evaluate the pros and cons. Be sure to take into account the complexity of the plan.

However, while long-term care insurance can be useful, there are several factors companies take into account when they price their insurance plans. These include:

  • How old you are
  • How much the policy pays each day
  • How many years it will pay out

You should also be very specific when doing your research. Ask the company about:

  • The specific type of care it covers
  • The forms of dementia (such as Alzheimer’s) that it covers
  • The daily benefit
  • How long it will pay out
  • Limits to how much it will pay

West Bladen: Here to Help You and Your Loved One

We have helped hundreds of residents understand what is and what isn’t covered by Medicare. This is because we truly care about our residents, and we treat them like family.

We’re proud to be your Memory Care Center near you, just a short drive from Lake Waccamaw and Bladen Lakes State Forest. We’re also only an hour away from some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast.

Interested in learning more about our Memory Care Center? Do you want to schedule a virtual tour?

Contact us today for the information you need to get the help your loved one needs and deserve