Planning for long-term care can be confusing. What are the options? One question most people have is, how will I pay for it? Will Medicare cover it? According to the U.S. Health and Human Services' website about Long-Term Care, the answer is generally no. Medicare will not pay for most long-term care services or personal care services. Under certain conditions, Medicare will pay for short rehab stays, which include long-term care services. Medicare will not pay for long-term custodial care.

Medicaid does pay for long-term custodial care, in skilled nursing facilities (nursing homes) or at home. However, eligibility requirements must be met, and the criteria may vary from state to state. 

The Florida Department of Financial Services publishes Long-Term Care: a guide for consumers. The guide is a useful resource for understanding the different types of long-term care available, as well as the different ways to pay for care, which may also include veterans benefits and long-term care insurance policies.   

What is your plan for long-term care? It is never too early to start planning! If you have questions about Medicare, SHINE counselors are available to help. If you are looking for long-term care resources, the Elder Helpline can help. You can reach both SHINE and the Elder Helpline at 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337).