Medicare Part A helps cover inpatient care in hospitals, and skilled nursing facilities (not custodial or long-term care). It also helps cover hospice care and some home health care.

Medicaid is a joint federal and state operated program which covers the cost of long-term care. To participate in Medicaid, federal law requires states to cover certain groups of individuals based upon low-income and limited assets.

The primary difference between a nursing home and an assisted living facility are the services provided. Typically, nursing facilities provide 24 hour nursing care with all ancillary services (meals, laundry, housekeeping, activities and therapy) included. Most Assisted Living facilities offer the some services but in a limited degree.

There is no orrect asnwer to this difficult question. Famililes should talk with their loved ones physician, other family members and most all if possible, their parents themselves. I am available to discuss your questions and to listen.

The yearly cost for a nursing home is nearly $100,000. Remember, Medicare will only cover skilled care for up to 100 days.

It's difficlut to compare nursing facilities. We can be influenced by location, attractiveness and even a facility tour. Quality of care is the one feature, that is the most difficult to determine. Join me in my Zoom presentations to learn how to best slect a facility.