Does Social Security Pay for Memory Care?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
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Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
You can use your Social Security payments to help pay for memory care, although it will not cover all the costs. If you paid into the Social Security system during your working years, you can count on receiving a monthly income in your retirement years. The exact amount you receive will depend on the state you live in and the amount you contributed to the system.
How to pay for memory care with Social Security
Since Social Security payments are typically transferred directly into your bank account, you have the flexibility to use these funds for various expenses, including the cost of memory care. However, the costs of assisted living and memory care are higher than the average Social Security payment.
In addition to Social Security, you may explore various other funding sources such as personal savings, property sales, a reverse mortgage or life insurance. Government aid, beyond standard Social Security benefits, might also be a viable option for supplementary support.
Additional Social Security programs
The Optional State Supplement program provides supplemental funds for low-income seniors who require care in a long-term care facility. It was designed to supplement the standard monthly Social Security payment. The exact amount paid depends on the individual’s care needs and the state they live in. However, the amount paid out is generally small, so seniors will still require additional funds to pay for long-term care.
Supplemental Security Income is also available to seniors aged 65 and up who meet certain financial criteria. This program pays part of the cost of hospital visits, prescription medications and medical equipment.