Paying for care
Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal and state health coverage program for people with limited income and resources. States run it within federal rules. Unlike Medicare, Medicaid can pay for long-term care, including some in-home care, for people who qualify. Covered services and rules differ by state.
Why it matters for your family
Many families first hear about Medicaid when savings run low. Each state sets its own income and asset rules, benefits, and application process. Most in-home help under Medicaid comes through a state program, often a waiver, with its own name and limits. A common mistake is to assume Medicaid will pay any agency or caregiver the family chooses. Providers usually must enroll with the state program first. Applications can take time and need records. The local Area Agency on Aging, or an elder law attorney, can help a family find the right program in their state.
Source: medicare.gov
Related terms
- Medicaid eligibilityMedicaid eligibility for long-term care depends on need, income, and assets.
- Home and community-based services (HCBS) waiverA home and community-based services (HCBS) waiver is a Medicaid program that pays for care at home or in the community instead of in a nursing home.
- Medicaid personal care servicesMedicaid personal care services are hands-on help with daily activities that Medicaid pays for.
- Spend downSpend down is a way to qualify for Medicaid when your income is above the state limit.
- Area Agency on Aging (AAA)An Area Agency on Aging is a public or private nonprofit agency that a state designates to meet the needs of older adults in a local area.
- Elder law attorneyAn elder law attorney is a lawyer who focuses on legal issues of older adults.
