People With Medicare

Myths and Facts about Medicare and Alzheimer's

There are some myths about Medicare coverage and Alzheimer’s. This section will address a few of them and explain how Medicare benefits work.

Myth: Medicare does not cover people with Alzheimer’s.

Fact: Medicare does cover people with Alzheimer’s. It gives them medical and mental health coverage, just as it does for other medical conditions.

Myth: Medicare does not cover home care, certain therapies, and even some medical care for Alzheimer’s patients. The reason is Alzheimer’s gets worse over time and does not have a cure.

Fact: A long time ago, Medicare did deny coverage for these reasons. But, Medicare has since changed its policy. That’s because research shows some therapies can help people with Alzheimer’s and dementia. These include drug, physical, occupational, speech-language, and other therapies that can help delay the worst effects of Alzheimer’s.

Make sure you understand Medicare rules about what it will cover or not cover. This can help you get you or your loved one’s medical needs met. It also can save you money.

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