Also, most nursing home residents do not enter the nursing home until their later years. Many are over age 85. Unmarried women over age 75 are the heaviest users of nursing homes. Although most older adults will never use nursing home services, the possibility disturbs their peace of mind because of the potential for financial ruin. About half of all nursing home costs are paid with private funds.
Private insurance pays a small percentage.
Government assistance programs, primarily Medicaid, pay most of the remainder. Medicare pays less than two percent. For more information, see the sections, Medicaid Eligibility for Nursing Home Benefits and Insurance. LL.M., Professor and Extension Specialist, NC State University. This publication is provided as a public service and is designed to acquaint you with certain legal issues and concerns.