UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2026
Cornerstone guide · ElderCareCosts Research
Medicare vs Medicaid for Long-Term Care
Medicare can cover short skilled nursing facility stays after a qualifying hospital stay under specific rules. Not indefinite custodial care.
The basics
Medicaid is need-based and can cover long-term nursing facility care when state eligibility rules are met.
Medicare generally does not cover assisted living room and board; Medicaid help for assisted living depends on state waiver or program design.
Sources
- Medicare.gov. Long-term care. Medicare long-term care coverage limits; does not cover custodial care or assisted living room and board
- Medicare.gov. Skilled nursing facility care. Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage rules overview after a qualifying hospital stay
- Medicaid.gov. Medicaid LTSS role; nursing facility care and state eligibility framework
Related
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