Eldercare Agencies: How to Get the Right Care and Benefits
Who this is for: Older adults and their families who want help paying for care and finding trusted services nearby.
Key takeaways
Medicare covers short-term skilled care, not long-term custodial care.
Medicaid may pay for long-term care if you meet income and asset rules (varies by state).
Area Agencies on Aging connect you to local services like meals, transportation, and caregiver support.
Low-income senior housing options exist, but waitlists can be long—apply early.
Need help now? Use the “Find Eldercare Services Near You” tool below to get local support.
The four main government-backed paths to long-term care help
Medicare (federal health insurance, mostly for people 65+)
Medicaid (state-run, needs-based coverage that can include long-term care)
State aging services and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)
Low-income senior housing (HUD programs and local housing authorities)
Medicare and long-term care at a glance
What Medicare usually covers
Short-term skilled nursing care after a qualifying hospital stay
Medically necessary home health care if you are homebound and have a skilled need
Hospice for people with a life-limiting illness
What Medicare does not typically cover
Long-term custodial care (help with bathing, dressing, meals) when that’s the only need
How to check your coverage and costs
Visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE
Review your plan (Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage) since benefits, networks, and copays vary
Tip for seniors and caregivers
Don’t delay a hospice referral if appropriate. Earlier support often improves comfort and reduces hospitalizations.
Medicaid for long-term care
Who may qualify
People with limited income and assets. Rules vary by state and care setting.
What Medicaid can cover
Nursing home care
Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers: in-home care, adult day care, personal care, respite, and more
Some assisted living services in states with waiver programs
Financial basics to know
Eligibility is state-specific; there are income and asset limits.
Spousal protections exist (spousal impoverishment rules) so the spouse at home can keep a portion of assets and income.
If your income is over your state’s limit, a Qualified Income Trust (also called a Miller Trust) may help you qualify, where allowed.
Next steps
Get a free Medicaid pre-screen with a benefits advisor.
Talk to an elder law attorney or a HUD-approved counselor for complex cases.
Contact your State Medicaid Agency for current rules and application help.
Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and the National Aging Network
What AAAs offer
Meals (home-delivered and community/“congregate” meals)
Transportation and mobility support
Caregiver counseling, education, and respite
Health insurance counseling (e.g., Medicare plan comparisons)
Legal assistance and ombudsman services (help resolving care facility issues)
In-home help: homemaker, personal care, chore services
Adult day services and senior centers
Information and referral to vetted local providers
How to connect
Use our Eldercare Services Finder (below)
Call the Eldercare Locator: (800) 989-8137 (Administration for Community Living) Visit eldercare.acl.gov to find your local AAA
Low-income senior housing
Main options
HUD Section 202 Supportive
Housing for the Elderly Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) and public housing via local housing authorities
Subsidized senior apartments through state/local programs
How to apply
Contact your city or county Housing Authority or visit HUD.gov
Ask your AAA for help completing applications
Apply to multiple properties; waitlists are common
Documents you’ll likely need
Photo ID, Social Security card
Proof of income (Social Security, pensions, bank statements)
List of assets and current housing situation
Contact information for references
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare pay for long-term nursing home care?
No, Medicare generally covers short-term skilled nursing and rehab—not ongoing custodial care.
Can Medicaid help me stay at home?
Often yes. Many states have Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers that fund in-home support, adult day care, and more.
What if my income is too high for Medicaid?
Some states allow a Qualified Income Trust (Miller Trust) to help you qualify for long-term care Medicaid. Speak with a benefits specialist or elder law attorney.
How do I find my local Area Agency on Aging?
Use our Finder or call the Eldercare Locator at (800) 989-8137.
How long is the wait for low-income senior housing?
It depends on your location and program demand. Apply early to multiple properties and ask your AAA for help.
