Glossary term
Medicare
The federal health insurance program for people 65 and older and for younger people with qualifying disabilities. Covers acute and post-acute care, hospice, and limited home health. Does not cover custodial long-term care.
The most expensive misunderstanding in senior care is treating Medicare as long-term-care coverage. Medicare pays for acute care, hospice, and up to 100 days of post-acute skilled nursing after a qualifying hospital stay. It does not pay for custodial care, the daily supervision and help with bathing, dressing, and meals that assisted living and memory care provide.
Related terms