Does Medicaid or Medicare Cover In-Home Supportive Services for Seniors?

Does Medicaid or Medicare Cover In-Home Supportive Services for Seniors?

Coverage for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) varies between Medicaid and Medicare. Here’s how the two programs work for seniors seeking support at home—and how All Seniors Foundation can help you access available benefits:

Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California)

  • IHSS is primarily funded through California’s Medicaid program, known as Medi-Cal.
  • Eligible low-income seniors, disabled adults, or blind individuals can receive IHSS benefits, with Medi-Cal covering the costs for approved services and caregiver wages.

Medicare

  • Traditional Medicare does not cover long-term personal care, custodial care, or IHSS-type services.
  • Medicare may cover short-term skilled nursing or therapy, but ongoing in-home supportive services are not included under standard Medicare plans.

How All Seniors Foundation Helps

  • Our team assists seniors in understanding and applying for Medi-Cal, navigating eligibility requirements, and connecting them with qualified IHSS caregivers in the community.

For a full explanation of IHSS coverage and support, see our In-Home Supportive Services resource page or contact All Seniors Foundation for expert help.