Healthcare Benefits

Medicare vs. Medicaid

The words Medicare and Medicaid are frequently used and are often interchanged when talking about care. However, Medicare and Medicaid are 2 distinct benefits that cover different services.

Key Facts

• Medicare does NOT cover long term care such as nursing homes, assisted living, or adult day facilities.
• Medicaid is a state-run program and Medicare is a federally run program.
• You can qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid

The Harris County Area Agency on Aging offers benefits counselors to help you understand what benefits you are eligible for, what services you can receive under those benefits, and how to apply for those benefits. These services are available for people over the age of 60 and their caregivers who reside in Harris County. For more information call, 832-393-4301.

The CareConnection Aging and Disability Resource Center also offers benefits counseling. Their services are available to individuals with disabilities, individuals over the age of 60, and their caregivers who reside within their 13 county service region which includes Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Colorado, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Walker, Waller and Wharton. For more information call, 1-855-YES-ADRC (1-855-937-2372).