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Paying for Senior Care

What each option costs and how families pay for it.

Senior care can run from a few thousand to over ten thousand dollars a month — and most of it isn't covered by Medicare. Here's what each option costs and how families fund it.

Assisted living

For seniors who need help with daily tasks but not constant medical care — nationally $4,500–$5,500/month, more in high-cost states. Estimate by region and care level in the assisted living calculator.

In-home care

Great for part-time help; the cost is hourly, so it stays affordable until needs grow — then it can exceed facility care. Estimate it in the in-home care calculator.

Nursing homes and memory care

Skilled nursing is the most expensive tier ($8,000–$10,000+/month); memory care adds a premium for secured, specialized dementia support. See the nursing home and memory care calculators.

What Medicare does (and doesn't) cover

Medicare covers short-term skilled rehab after a hospital stay — not long-term custodial care. Most families pay privately, then turn to long-term care insurance or Medicaid after spending down assets.

How families pay

Planning estimates only — not financial, medical or placement advice. Costs vary widely by location.