Is Alzheimer's covered by Medicare/Medicaid?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people age 65 or older who receive Social Security retirement benefits. To receive assistance from Medicare, a person must meet specific eligibility requirements. Medicare covers some, but not all, of the services a person with Alzheimer's disease may require. For example, the program does not cover long term healthcare. Medicaid is a federal program for certain individuals and families with low incomes and resources, typically administered by state agencies; eligibility and benefits vary from state to state. Medicaid can cover all or a portion of nursing home costs. A person with Alzheimer's can qualify for long term care only if there are minimal income and cash assets. Medicaid may be applied for by calling each state's Department of Human Services or Medicaid Assistance Program.

Resources:

• Alzheimer's Toolkit (Information to Help You Understand and Manage Alzheimer's Disease)
• Expert Articles on Alzheimer's
• Questions and Answers about Alzheimer's
• Government Benefits for Alzheimer's Care
• What Medicare Parts A, B, D, C and Medigap
  Insurance Cover