Medicaid has several programs to help eligible seniors pay for in-home care services for low-income seniors and people with disabilities. Medicaid programs in many states cover some personal care services and other nonmedical care such as companion care and homemaking services.
Specific services vary from state to state and may be available through a state’s regular Medicaid program, through Medicaid waivers, or both. Navigating Medicaid can be complicated as each state is free to create its own programs and set eligibility requirements within federal guidelines.
These are the basic types of Medicaid programs that cover long-term care at home:
- State Medicaid — The state plan may include Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) options. HCBS benefits provide long-term services and support to individuals living in their own homes and communities who would otherwise require care in an institution.
- HCBS Medicaid Waivers — Waivers allow states to expand Medicaid benefits to certain groups of people.
- Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) — For seniors who have Medicare, Medicaid, or both, PACE provides a comprehensive package of services that can help them continue living in their own homes.
