Alzheimer's Disease Statistics | Paying For Alzheimer's Care

Memory care is extremely expensive. The cost of memory care varies widely, depending on the services available and the facility's specialization. On average, a private room in a memory care facility in the United States costs approximately $5,745 per month.

For families with a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer's related dementia's certified Alzheimer's / memory care facilities provides a safe and pleasing home environment. These specialized memory care communities are designed exclusively for individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and other types of memory impairments.

Traditionally, Medicare does not cover the costs of memory care or long-term care facilities. However, Medicare will cover qualified healthcare costs while your loved one is living at a certain facility. Medicare is more often used to pay for a skilled nursing facility or home health care.

People with Alzheimer's disease require regular medical care as well as some special care that might include medications or other interventions. Medical services are often covered under medical insurance (either Medicare or private health insurance). It may be important to examine the health coverage to determine the extent of coverage limitations or co-pays and deductibles.

Help is available. The Alzheimer's Association can connect you with low-cost or free community support services. Call our 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900 (TTY: 866.403.3073). Benefits Check-Up helps you find benefit programs that can help pay for medications, health care, food, utilities and more.

Private Health Insurance

If the person with Alzheimer's has private health insurance it is important to contact the insurer and learn what lifetime maximums or other limitations you may encounter. Knowing what you are covered for in advance will help avoid surprises when coverage is denied.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a state/federal program that pays for long-term care services. The program is administered by each state so eligibility criteria and services may differ from one state to another. It is important to learn what the rules are in your state. Each state also provides a somewhat different set of services. Nursing homes are always covered but coverage for in-home services varies.

Longtermcare.gov provides an overview of the Medicaid program and a link to state-based Medicaid resources.

Programs for Veterans with Alzheimer's Disease

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' Geriatrics and Extended Care resources include an overview of eligibility, and details on home- and community-based services, nursing homes and other residential care.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Caregiver Support offers support and resources to caregivers.

National Council for Aging Care - Complete Guide for Veteran Seniors
Few senior veterans take advantage of the numerous health, career, educational, and financial resources available to them. We cover the resources that can help improve comfort and quality of life.

Additionally, there are other options available aside from private pay including: Long Term Care Insurance, Veterans Benefits, and Medicaid as well as to preserve one's estate.

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