Medicare vs. Medicaid: What’s the Difference?
Medicare and Medicaid are different programs created by the federal government. Medicare generally is a health insurance program for people over the age of 65, certain people on disability, and some people with permanent kidney failure. Medicare, in most cases, does not pay for custodial care (care that involves assistance with daily life activities); but does pay for skilled nursing care for a limited period of time.
Medicaid is jointly administered with the federal and state governments. Medicaid covers custodial care needed in long-term care. In Florida, Medicaid can cover long-term care in a variety of settings such as the recipient’s home, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes. Medicaid is a means-tested program and to be eligible, individuals must meet certain financial criteria.