Medicaid covers nursing home services for all eligible people age 21 and older. Medicaid also covers home and community-based services for people who would need to be in a nursing home if they did not receive the home care services. In most states, Medicaid will also cover services that will help you remain in your home, such as personal care services, case management, and help with laundry and cleaning. Medicaid will not pay for your rent, mortgage, utilities, or food. Check to see whether your state Medicaid program offers alternatives to nursing home care services.

It is important to understand that Medicaid programs and eligibility for services vary from state to state. Services that may be available to you in one state may not be available in another. For example, some states cover assisted living services, while others do not. Contact your state Medicaid office to learn more about your state's programs and eligibility requirements.