A large majority of the American public still believes that the government will provide
long-term care when needed. It is this misconception that most likely prevents people from planning at a younger age for their future needs for care.

Does Medicare cover Long-Term Care?

Medicare will only provide for some skilled care in very limited situations. It was not designed to cover activities of daily living. Rather, it was designed to cover acute care or skilled care such as that provided during a short hospital stay.

Does Medicaid cover Long-Term Care?

Yes, but in very limited situations. Medicaid will generally apply only to those with very low incomes and very few assets. Even then, there is only limited choice of what and where benefits will be provided. For example, there might be limited choice of physician and facility, no control over the number of people sharing a room, or no ability for the family to pay for any extras.

Does medical insurance cover Long-Term Care?

Although medical insurance has some aspects of Long-Term Care, they are not the same thing. For example, some medical plans may pay for the services of a nurse while you are recovering from an illness or an injury that requires medical attention. This medical benefit is very limited. Once you are better or reach the maximum benefit for nursing services, this benefit would cease. Medical insurance is not designed to cover activities of daily living. Long-Term Care is designed to cover activities of daily living.