Does AARP Insurance Provide Coverage for Assisted Living?

AARP insurance provides coverage for assisted living through its long-term care insurance plan. This policy offers access to funding for expenses such as room, board and extended personal care services, which Original Medicare doesn’t cover. Understanding the nuances of long-term care insurance helps seniors budget effectively for their future.

Costs in an assisted living community include accommodation, meals and personal care services. Medicare and Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) do not cover most of these expenses because they are not classified as medical care. As a result, seniors and their families often explore other options to bridge the gap. Genworth’s 2021 Cost of Care Survey estimates that assisted living rates are $4,500 per month, so advance planning is crucial.

AARP offers several insurance policy options to meet seniors’ needs as they age, from basic to more comprehensive plans. As basic health care insurance plans rarely cover expenses associated with assisted living, it’s important to carefully review the details of your AARP insurance plan. Depending on your policy, you might need to invest in additional coverage options.

In addition to Original Medicare, AARP offers Medicare Advantage plans that include routine vision, hearing and dental expenses. They also cover fitness, prescription drugs and basic health care costs. Those who wish to enter assisted living should opt for AARP’s long-term care insurance, which covers services such as bathing, eating and transferring. Use AARP’s Long-Term Care Cost Calculator to determine how much assisted living costs in your area.

Beyond long-term care insurance, individuals may consider personal savings, VA benefits or government assistance programs, such as Medicaid, to help manage assisted living expenses.

For more information about long-term care insurance, contact your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ARDC) where trained professionals provide advice about how to access financial support for senior care.