What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps pay medical costs for certain people with limited income and resources, including older adults and people with disabilities. Medicare.gov says it offers benefits Medicare normally doesn't cover, such as nursing home care and personal care services. The rules about who is eligible are different in each state, so check with your state Medicaid office.

Yes, for people who qualify. The Alzheimer's Association says Medicaid pays for long-term care for people who have used up most of their own money. Most states have home and community care options that let eligible people stay at home and receive long-term care services there. For nursing home residents, Medicaid covers all or part of the cost, though not every nursing home accepts Medicaid.

Yes, for people who meet its eligibility rules. The Alzheimer's Association says Medicaid covers all or a portion of nursing home costs for eligible people, but not all nursing homes accept Medicaid, so ask before choosing one. The National Institute on Aging notes many people pay for nursing home care themselves at first, since Medicare generally doesn't cover long stays. Most nursing homes that accept Medicaid have staff who can help with the application.

Eligibility depends on income and assets, not the diagnosis, and it varies by state. The Alzheimer's Association says people on Supplemental Security Income may qualify depending on state law; others must have limited income and assets set by their state. Special rules protect a spouse living at home from impoverishment. It warns against giving assets to family to qualify and suggests checking with a legal adviser first.

Medicaid can pay for nursing home care and personal care services, which Medicare normally doesn't cover, Medicare.gov says. For someone with both Medicare and full Medicaid, Medicare pays first and Medicaid pays last, and the state may help with Medicare premiums and other costs. Special Medicare Advantage plans for people with both, and PACE programs, can help some people get care outside a nursing home.