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While it may be hard to think of now, it’s likely you’ll need some type of healthcare or daily living assistance as you age. People often believe that Medicare covers long-term care (provided either at home or in a nursing facility). Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Medicare doesn’t cover assisted living, skilled nursing, or long-term care.

Paying for this type of care out-of-pocket is tremendously expensive and can deplete a lifetime of savings in a flash. As an alternative to draining your nest egg, Medicare and Long-Term Care Insurance can work together to ensure you have the necessary resources and services available when you need them most. Here’s how:

Medicare Benefits

Medicare offers some care services, so when possible, it’s best to take advantage of those benefits first. After a three-day hospital stay, Medicare will pay for the total cost of Skilled Nursing Care (SNC) for the first 20 days in a skilled nursing facility. After that, you pay around $200 co-insurance per day. After 100 days, Medicare assistance stops. If you’re unable to leave your house for medical or therapeutic care, Medicare will pay for home healthcare services. Importantly, Medicare will not cover 24-hour care. 

Long-Term Care Insurance 

Long-term Care (LTC) Insurance is designed to cover long-term services and support not covered by traditional medical insurance or Medicare. It can include a variety of benefits for individuals who need constant medical attention and/or custodial care for daily activities like eating, bathing, or mobility. It covers various locations where individuals might be cared for, such as assisted living facilities, or full-time, in-home custodial care, or a private room in a nursing facility. Policies like this reimburse long-term care beneficiaries a daily amount for services.

The cost of a long-term care policy is based on age, desired benefit amount, and any additional options you choose to include. That’s why it’s important to determine your long-term care and level of protection needs before they become an emergency. 

Considering long-term care is a cornerstone in any financial plan, and there are many options to choose from based on your financial situation and needs. Meet with a financial advisor to discuss your potential long-term care needs and the best approach for your unique situation. It’s better to be overprepared and covered than underprepared and financially devastated.