Extra Help for Mom

Limited income seniors may qualify for extra help with prescriptions. There are several ways to get help paying costs. Medicaid, Medicare Saving Programs, PACE and other programs may be available, depending on income and available resources.

Making decisions regarding aging parents can be daunting. That’s why you need a team of experts familiar with all the ways Medicare can help.

1. Does Medicare cover care in a nursing home?

A. Medicare does not cover long-term care in a nursing home. However, you may be covered for short stays in a skilled-care facility. You must meet certain pre-entrance requirements in order to qualify for benefits. If you’re eligible, Medicare will cover skilled care for the first 20 days and a certain amount each day for days 21-100. After 100 days per benefit period, Medicare pays nothing.

2. Does Medicare cover home health care?

A. Yes, but only if your doctor orders part-time skilled care and you are homebound. If you meet Medicare’s requirements for home health care, it is paid at 100 percent.

3. Will Medicare pay for hearing aids, dentures, eye exams, eyeglasses, etc.?

A. No. Coverage is available through stand-alone insurance plans or through most Medicare Advantage plans.

4. Who qualifies for Medicaid?

A. Medicaid is available only to certain low-income individuals and families who fit into an eligibility group that is recognized by federal and state law. Medicaid does not pay money to you; instead, it sends payments directly to your health care providers.