Does Medicaid pay for memory care?

Does Medicaid pay for memory care?

Short answer: Medicaid pays for nursing home care for people with dementia who qualify, and in many states it helps pay for care services in assisted living memory care units through a waiver. It usually does not pay room and board outside a nursing home.

Figures change periodically. Double-check current amounts before relying on them.

People with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia often meet the level-of-care test because they need supervision and help with daily activities, even if they are physically strong.

  • In a nursing home, including a secure dementia unit, Medicaid pays for care and room and board for residents who qualify.
  • In assisted living memory care, many states pay for care services through a waiver. Room and board is usually the resident’s responsibility, and not every memory care residence accepts Medicaid. Some states have waiting lists.
  • At home, waivers can pay for personal care, adult day programs (including dementia-specific programs) and respite for family caregivers.
  • PACE programs, where available, can serve people with dementia.

Families should ask any memory care residence whether it accepts Medicaid and whether a resident can stay if they switch to Medicaid.

Getting help

Every situation is different, and small facts can change the answer. If this question affects a real decision, especially with a spouse at home, a home, gifts or a trust, a Certified Medicaid Planner can apply your state’s rules to your situation. As a rough guide, published fees for help with an application range from about $500 to $6,000, and hourly help from about $150 to $600.

Last updated for 2026. General information only, not legal or financial advice. Medicaid Answers is a free educational resource published by Medicaid Answers Foundation.

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