Wondering how to afford home care for your loved one?
Here’s a quick, clear guide to help you understand the three most common ways to pay: Medicare, Medicaid, and Private Pay.
🏥 Medicare: For Short-Term Skilled Care
Who qualifies?
• Adults 65+ or under 65 with certain disabilities
• Must be under a doctor’s care and meet homebound criteria
What’s covered:
• Intermittent skilled nursing
• Physical, speech, or occupational therapy
• Medical social services
• Home health aide services only if tied to skilled care
What’s not covered:
• 24/7 care
• Personal care (bathing, dressing)
• Homemaker services (cleaning, errands)
✅ Best for: Short-term recovery after surgery, illness, or hospital discharge
💙 Medicaid: For Long-Term Care if You Qualify Financially
Who qualifies?
• Low-income individuals and families (based on income & assets)
• Must meet medical need criteria
• Programs vary by state
What’s covered:
• Long-term personal care (bathing, toileting, meal help)
• Home health aide services
• Nursing and therapy
• Some in-home medical equipment
• Waiver programs for at-home vs. nursing facility care
📝 Application tip: Prepare to show income, medical need, and complete state forms.
✅ Best for: Long-term care for individuals with chronic conditions and limited income
💳 Private Pay: Most Flexible, Most Comprehensive
Who uses it?
• Families who want more options than Medicare or Medicaid cover
• Those who need personal or 24-hour care
What’s covered:
• Personal care (dressing, grooming, bathing)
• Companionship & supervision
• Housekeeping, cooking, errands
• Overnight or live-in care
Ways to pay:
• Personal savings
• Long-term care insurance
• VA benefits
• Reverse mortgages
• Life insurance cash-outs
✅ Best for: Customized, full-service care with flexible schedules
💡 Quick Comparison
| Payment Type | Skilled Medical Care | Personal Care | Long-Term Support | Income Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medicare | ✅ Yes | ❌ Limited | ❌ No | ❌ None |
| Medicaid | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Private Pay | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ None |
💬 Need Help Choosing the Right Option?
Let our care coordinators walk you through the process. Whether you’re exploring Medicare benefits, applying for Medicaid, or building a custom private care plan—we’re here to help.
📞 Call us today to schedule a free consultation or click below to get started.
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