Does Medicare Pay for Assisted Living in Wichita, KS?
One of the most frequent questions Wichita families ask when considering senior care is: “Does Medicare pay for assisted living?” The short answer is no. While Medicare helps cover medical expenses, it does not pay for the daily living support that assisted living provides. At Keepsake Kottage Home Plus, we guide families through this often confusing topic so they can make informed financial and care decisions.
What Medicare Covers
Medicare is a federal health insurance program designed for people aged 65 and older. It is structured to cover medical expenses, not personal care. In assisted living, Medicare may help with:
- Doctor and hospital visits – when residents need outside or in-facility medical care.
- Prescription drugs – through Medicare Part D plans.
- Short-term skilled nursing – but only after a qualifying hospital stay.
- Rehabilitation therapy – such as physical or occupational therapy under certain conditions.
- Medical equipment – like wheelchairs or oxygen machines.
While helpful, these benefits focus only on healthcare needs, not room, board, or personal assistance.
What Medicare Does Not Cover
The biggest misconception families face is assuming Medicare will pay for monthly assisted living costs. Unfortunately, it does not. Medicare will not cover:
- Monthly rent in an assisted living community
- Meals and housekeeping
- Help with daily activities (bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting)
- Transportation to appointments
- Social activities and community life
These services are classified as custodial care rather than medical care, which is why Medicare excludes them.
Paying for Assisted Living Without Medicare
Since Medicare does not cover assisted living, families must plan for costs through other sources. Common options include:
- Private Pay- Most families cover assisted living using personal savings, pensions, or the sale of a home.
- Long-Term Care Insurance- Certain policies help cover assisted living expenses.
- Medicaid (KanCare in Kansas)- For eligible seniors with limited income and assets, Medicaid may help cover some long-term care costs.
- Veterans Benefits- Aid & Attendance benefits provide monthly financial assistance for qualifying veterans and spouses.
- Family Support- Adult children often pool resources to ensure loved ones receive the care they need.
How Wichita Families Approach Assisted Living Costs
In Wichita, affordability is a top concern for families exploring assisted living. At Keepsake Kottage, we offer a home-like alternative to large senior care facilities, often at a lower cost than institutional settings. Families appreciate that our smaller scale allows for personalized care, which provides peace of mind when Medicare isn’t available to cover housing costs.
Our team also assists with guidance on Medicaid eligibility and resources for veterans, making sure families explore every financial option before making a decision.
Address: 8428 W 13th St N, Ste 130, Wichita, KS 67212
Phone: (316) 650-4526
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare ever cover assisted living costs?
No. Medicare does not cover assisted living rent, meals, or custodial care. It only covers specific medical services such as doctor visits, therapy, and medications.
Is Medicaid different from Medicare when it comes to assisted living?
Yes. Medicaid (called KanCare in Kansas) may cover certain assisted living or long-term care costs if the individual meets income and asset requirements, unlike Medicare which does not.
How can families in Wichita plan for assisted living costs?
Families often combine personal savings, long-term care insurance, veterans benefits, and Medicaid eligibility. At Keepsake Kottage, we help guide families to resources that make assisted living more affordable.
Conclusion
Does Medicare pay for assisted living? The answer is no, but that doesn’t mean families in Wichita are without options. With the right planning and support, seniors can enjoy compassionate care in a safe, home-like environment. At Keepsake Kottage Home Plus, we’re here to help families understand their options and make assisted living a reality.
Contact Keepsake Kottage today to learn more about our assisted living services in Wichita, KS.
