The decision to remain independent and at home will likely involve consideration of in-home care provided by caregivers who can assist individuals who might have difficulty with activities of daily living.
Does Medicare cover the cost of aging in place?
Medicare will cover certain medically necessary in-home care, such as skilled nursing care and various therapy services. Medicare can also cover certain custodial care (assistance with activities of daily living) provided at the same time as skilled medical care. This could include, for example, assistance with bathing or dressing that’s provided at the same time as in-home physical therapy.
But Medicare will not cover custodial care by itself, regardless of whether the care is provided in-home or in a long-term care facility. Medicaid does cover custodial care for those who are eligible, but this generally only applies to people with low incomes and very low asset levels.
The Programs of all-inclusive care for the elderly (PACE), which are available in most the majority of the states, can also cover services that make it possible for eligible seniors to remain in their homes instead of having to move into a nursing home.
