Medicare Doesn't Cover Long-Term Care: What You Need to Know

Apr 06, 2026 02:07 UTC

Long term

Medicare does not cover long-term care, a critical oversight that many retirees may not anticipate. While the program addresses a wide range of health-related needs, it explicitly excludes services such as dental cleanings, eye exams, and hearing aids. Long-term care, which can include nursing home stays or in-home assistance, is another significant expense Medicare does not cover. The financial burden of long-term care can be substantial, with annual costs varying by location. According to CareScout's data, the national average for long-term care costs is a figure that could deplete even well-planned retirement savings. For example, if an individual has $200,000 remaining in savings at age 87 and requires a nursing home stay for two years, those savings may not be sufficient to cover the costs. Given the unpredictability of long-term care needs, financial planning is essential. Long-term care insurance is one potential solution, though it comes with its own costs. Premiums can be more affordable when purchased during one's 50s, as health status at that time may allow for more competitive rates. However, as individuals age, insurance premiums tend to rise. For those who choose not to pursue insurance, alternative strategies must be considered to address potential long-term care expenses. The absence of Medicare coverage for long-term care underscores the importance of proactive financial planning to avoid unexpected financial strain in retirement.

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