05/13/2026
Does Medicare Cover Long-Term Care?
Short Answer:
No — Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Medicare generally does NOT cover long-term custodial care.
This is one of the biggest misunderstandings seniors and families have.
What Medicare DOES Cover
Medicare Part A may cover:
Short-term skilled nursing care
Rehabilitation after a qualifying hospital stay
Physical therapy
Occupational therapy
Skilled medical services
But only:
For a limited time
Under specific conditions
When skilled care is medically necessary
What Medicare Usually Does NOT Cover
Medicare generally does NOT pay for:
Long-term nursing home residency
Help with bathing
Dressing
Eating
Toileting
Supervision for dementia
Custodial/personal care
These are considered:
“Custodial Care”
And that’s where many families are shocked financially.
The Biggest Misunderstanding
Many people believe:
“Once I’m in a nursing home, Medicare pays.”
In reality:
Medicare is primarily health insurance
It is NOT long-term care insurance
That distinction surprises many retirees.