Long-term care

Long-term care includes medical and non-medical care for people who have a chronic illness or disability. Most long-term care helps with basic personal tasks of everyday life, sometimes called “activities of daily living.” This may include:

• Help with personal care assistance (like dressing, bathing, and using the bathroom)
• Home-delivered meals
• Adult day health care
• Transportation

It’s important to start planning for non-medical long-term care now to maintain your independence and make sure you get the care you may need, in the setting you want, now and in the future. If you’re an American Indian or Alaska Native, contact your local Indian health care provider for more information.

How can I find out about long-term care options if I’m currently in a hospital or nursing home? 

Medicare and most health insurance, including Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) , don’t pay for long-term care services, including care in a nursing home or in the community.   Where can I get more information about long-term care?  

Although you’re not eligible for long-term care under Medicare, you may be eligible for it through Medicaid (if you meet eligibility requirements in your state), or you can choose to buy private long-term care insurance.