Glossary · Care and services
What is long-term care?
Long-term care is medical and non-medical care for people who cannot perform basic activities of daily living, such as dressing or bathing. HealthCare.gov notes that Medicare and most health plans do not pay for most long-term care.
Definition and figures from HealthCare.gov glossary, checked October 23, 2026. This page explains the term; it does not recommend a plan.
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Long-term care: the facts
| Item | Fact | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Settings | Home, community, assisted living, nursing homes | HealthCare.gov glossary: Long-term care |
| Medicare and most plans | Do not pay for most long-term care | HealthCare.gov glossary: Long-term care |
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What does long-term care mean in health insurance?
Long-term care is medical and non-medical care for people who cannot perform basic activities of daily living, such as dressing or bathing. HealthCare.gov notes that Medicare and most health plans do not pay for most long-term care.