MISCONCEPTION
The biggest misconception I heard was “Well Medicare will pay for the care my parents need right?” The reality is Medicare only pays for medical care! This includes hospital stays and time in a facility, only while they are receiving skilled nursing care. Once your parent has reached their therapy goals and they are medically stable, Medicare will no longer cover the cost of staying. It wont matter if they are no longer able to walk or talk or make rational decision because unfortunately this is the their new normal. I am not trying to scare you but if a stroke or some other medical catastrophie strikes, this will be where you find yourself, In a mountain of changes: downsizing, placement, medicine management, etc.
If your loved one is unable to be alone or they need some kind of support, that is when private funds will need to be used. If your parent has little or no money, then Medicaid may be an option.