Navigating Medicare and Medicaid can be confusing, but understanding the differences can help seniors who have fallen access the right care and services.
When seniors experience a fall, they may need a combination of medical services, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Medicare and Medicaid provide different types of coverage, and understanding the distinction between the two is essential for ensuring that care needs are met. Medicare is available to seniors aged 65 and older, covering hospital stays, doctor visits, physical therapy, and certain types of home health care. However, Medicare does not cover long-term custodial care in a nursing facility. Medicaid, on the other hand, can cover these services, including nursing home care and home-based assistance for seniors with limited income. For families caring for a loved one recovering from a fall, it’s important to explore both Medicare and Medicaid coverage to identify which services are covered and how to maximize the benefits.