Families often assume Medicare covers memory care. This page explains what's actually covered, what isn't, and how 1-800-MEDIGAP helps you pay for the rest.
What does Medicare not cover for memory care?
Medicare does not pay for the core costs of a memory care facility — room and board, personal care like bathing and dressing, medication reminders, and 24-hour supervision — because it classifies these as custodial long-term care rather than medical treatment. This is true even when the resident has Alzheimer's or dementia. That means the bulk of a memory care bill, often $6,000 or more per month in 2026, is not a Medicare benefit. Families typically cover it through savings, long-term care insurance, Medicaid, or VA benefits. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) to map out how to pay.
What medical care does Medicare still cover?
Even in a memory care setting, Medicare continues to cover medically necessary care. This includes doctor visits, cognitive assessments and care planning, prescription drugs (through Part D), medically necessary part-time home health, hospice, and up to 100 days of skilled nursing facility care following a qualifying inpatient hospital stay. A Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan can reduce the out-of-pocket share of these covered medical services. So while Medicare won't pay the facility's monthly rent, it remains important for your loved one's ongoing health costs. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to make sure their Medicare and Medigap coverage is working as hard as possible.