Is A Memory Care Facility Covered by Medicare?

Morning, Toni:

I have never seen you address the issue of paying for a Memory Care or Alzheimer facility and Medicare.  I am concerned that I may wipeout my 401K or savings if need arises due to a long-term health issue or if Alzheimer/dementia need arises for me or my wife.

Currently, my 88-year-old mother has been living in an Alzheimer’s facility for 3 years, costing me and my siblings over $7,000 each month. Is there any help we can get for her financially? Thanks, Roy from Memorial/Spring Branch area.

Roy:

I’m sorry, but Medicare does not cover Alzheimer, Memory Care, Assisted Living or Nursing Home stays,  Medicare will only pay Skilled Nursing/Rehab days 1-20 with a $0 co-pay and days 21-100 have a specific co-pay per day that changes each year.

After that time, the Medicare beneficiary or their family must absorb the remaining cost themselves or if there is a Long-Term Care type policy then…