Is Caregiving Covered Under Medicare? 4 Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, caregiving is covered under Medicare. Medicare reports covering the following services in particular: part-time skilled nursing care, physical and occupational therapy, medical social services, speech-language pathology services, part-time home health aide care (only if you're currently receiving nursing and/or therapy), durable medical equipment, at-home medical supplies, and injectable osteoporosis drugs for women. The agency caring for you must also be Medicare-certified to receive these benefits.
Here are more answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding its coverage.
Who's Eligible for Medicare?
Not everyone is eligible for Medicare right away. You must meet certain criteria established by the organization and go from there. In Kentucky, the following qualifications are required to be eligible for Medicare:
- You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal U.S. resident of five or more years
- You're 65 years old or older/may qualify sooner if you have the following:
- A disability
- End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
- ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease
Which Type of Care Is Not Covered by Medicare?
It's important to know that Medicare does not cover every type of care you may need. Therefore, you must be just as familiar with what isn't covered as you are with what is. According to Medicare, the following are some examples of what is not covered by Part A & Part B:
- Cosmetic surgery
- Custodial care
- Concierge care
- Most types of dental care
- Dentures
- Eye exams for your prescription glasses
- Massage therapy
- Routine physical exams
This is not a complete list of covered services and tests. If you have questions about a given service, item, or service and its eligibility, type them into the search bar on Medicare's Coverage search page.
Does Medicare Cover All Expenses for the Elderly?
While it's true that Medicare may pay for a significant portion of your healthcare costs, it will not cover every expense you have. You'll still be responsible for deductibles, premiums, coinsurance, and copayments. However, keep in mind that some policies and plans may better fit your budget and needs. Discuss your options with a professional.
Can a Person Run Out of Medicare Benefits?
No matter how many services you use or how much that care costs, Medicare does not put a cap on your benefits and assistance. There is no limit within the year, and there is no limit throughout your lifetime. As long as you receive care and services covered by Medicare, you will continue to be covered according to your plan.
Senior Helpers Western Kentucky for Caregiving Services
Senior Helps Western Kentucky is Medicare-certified and ready to provide personalized care to you or someone you love. Our team of experts can assist your family with caregiving in Western Kentucky areas, such as Hopkinsville, Paducah, Murray, and Madisonville. Contact us for answers to more of your Medicare questions, and get connected to the care you need when you need it!