Short answer: No. Medicare does not pay family members to be caregivers. But if your loved one also has Georgia Medicaid, you may be able to get paid to care for them through Structured Family Care or our Family Hire program.
Medicare and Medicaid are not the same
They sound alike, but they do different jobs.
- Medicare is health insurance for people 65 and older and some people with disabilities. It pays for doctors, hospitals and short stays of home health care after an illness. It doesn’t pay for everyday help like bathing and dressing, and it doesn’t pay family.
- Medicaid helps people with low income and few assets. In Georgia, some Medicaid programs cover help at home, and that help can come from a family member.
Many older Georgians have both. If your loved one has Medicaid too, that’s the door.
How to tell if your loved one has Medicaid
Look in their wallet. A Georgia Medicaid card, or a card from a Medicaid plan, is a good sign. You can also ask their doctor’s office.
If they have Medicaid
Then you may be able to get paid to care for them. Freedom Adult Care offers two ways to do it:
- Structured Family Care: you live together and care for them full time.
- Family Hire: you can keep another job and don’t have to live together.
Read SFC or Family Hire: which one fits?
If they don’t have Medicaid yet
They may still qualify. Call us and we’ll walk you through the first steps.
Other options
- Veterans: the VA has its own caregiver program. Call the VA Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274.
- Long-term care insurance: some policies pay for help at home. Check the policy.
Common questions
Does Medicare pay for home health care?
Yes, for short stays after an illness or surgery, from a nurse or therapist. It doesn’t pay a family member.
My mom has Medicare and Medicaid. Can I get paid?
Possibly, yes. Having both is common. Call us for a free eligibility check.
Does a Medicare Advantage plan pay family caregivers?
Usually no. Some plans offer small extras, but they don’t pay a family member a regular wage.
Find out in one call
The call is free. Call or text (706) 786-3041.