Medicare covers home care through its home health benefit if you meet the eligibility requirements. You must need skilled care to qualify for Medicare’s home health benefit. If you are eligible, Medicare may also cover other services, such as personal care.
Remember: If you need home health care and/or personal care services but do not need skilled care, Medicare will not pay for your care. If you are not eligible for Medicare-covered home care, you may want to consider other options, such as the following:
- Medicaid is a state and federal program that provides health coverage if you have a limited income. Medicaid benefits coordinate with Medicare.
- Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a state-sponsored home care program.
- Home care organizations in your area may provide services at low or reduced costs.
- Alternative living arrangements may help you access needed care. For instance, you could move in with someone you know and provide them with rent assistance in exchange for help with personal care needs.
- Medicare’s hospice program provides certain home care services. You are eligible for hospice if you are terminally ill.
You can also contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for assistance and counseling. You may want to consider speaking to a home health agency to learn more about costs if you must pay out of pocket.