Plans & Coverage
Long-Term Care Planning
Medicare generally does not cover ongoing custodial long-term care, such as help with daily activities, though it may cover qualifying short-term skilled care under specific rules. Long-term care insurance or a hybrid life/LTC policy may help pay some costs if its contract conditions are met. Benefits, exclusions, eligibility, premiums, and waiting periods vary; review the policy and consider your budget before applying.
Your options
Traditional long-term-care insurance and hybrid life/LTC policies have different benefit triggers, waiting periods, costs, and effects on policy values. Review the contract and compare these terms with your needs and budget; coverage does not necessarily reimburse every care expense.
Questions, answered
Doesn't Medicare cover nursing homes?
Original Medicare generally does not cover custodial care when that is the only care you need. It may cover short-term skilled nursing or rehabilitation when coverage requirements are met. Medicare Advantage coverage follows the specific plan’s rules. Check Medicare.gov and your plan documents for your situation.
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