Medicare Assisted Living: What to Expect, What is Covered

For individuals who need additional help with daily activities, Medicare offers benefits for assisted living facilities that can bridge the gap between independent living at home and the more restrictive and constant medical supervision that usually takes place in traditional nursing homes. Medicare assisted living facilities provide a number of benefits to their residents at a significant savings over the cost of nursing home care, and allow older adults to enjoy independence while ensuring that necessary medical care is close at hand if it is needed.

Assisted living communities typically offer their residents the option to have their meals prepared for them in a communal setting, allowing the chance for socializing with their neighbors and avoiding the necessity for daily cooking. Health and fitness programs are usually available on-site for those able to participate in them, and laundry and housekeeping services are provided in some cases for residents who need these services. A number of social activities keep seniors involved in the community; typical social functions include movie nights, sit-down dinners, and even dances. Transportation to shopping, medical appointments, and church services is available at most Medicare assisted living communities with advance notice, and planned excursions are usually scheduled each week for residents. Most facilities offer some type of medical care, and all provide round-the-clock staff on call in case of an emergency.

Medicare typically pays for the medical treatments received at an assisted living facility, but may only cover a portion of the living expenses incurred at these communities. Individuals who reside at Medicare assisted living facilities typically can qualify for Medicaid payments to cover some of the excess costs; the average monthly cost for assisted living facilities in the U.S. is $1,800, so this additional coverage can be very helpful to individuals on fixed incomes; long-term care insurance can also help bridge this coverage gap. For older people who own their own homes, some assisted living communities offer a reverse mortgage program that allows residents to pay their way by surrendering part or all of their equity to the facility in exchange; this can make assisted living more affordable for many.