Medicare Coverage of Meal Delivery Programs for Seniors

The program helps about 2,400,000 seniors across the country. Most of these seniors have Medicare health coverage. For the most part, Medicare does not cover meal delivery. Although, Part A does cover your meals while you’re an inpatient at a hospital or skilled nursing facility. There are some options for meal delivery on a temporary basis that will be covered by Medicare.

People suffering from chronic conditions limiting their ability to feed themselves may qualify for up to 2 weeks (per year) of meal delivery services. If you’re needing meal deliveries, contact your doctor directly to see if you qualify.

Meals on Wheels is a wonderful program that’s helping feed many seniors and qualifying individuals who can’t cook for themselves. Annually, this program feeds more than 2.4 million Americans. Delivering to homebound seniors who lack access to a healthy food source or for those who simply, just can’t feed themselves. For individuals that can’t afford to pay for this program, don’t fret. Meals on Wheels isn’t denying anyone service due to financial reasons.

Operating on a sliding payment scale, some of these programs accept food stamps as payment. Each program has its own policy for payment and eligibility requirements. Likewise, some programs are offering extra services such as transportation or pet food delivery.

If this program sounds like it may be beneficial to you, check with your local Meals on Wheels program about qualifying and costs. You can also apply or find a program in your area by visiting the Meals on Wheels website. For most, the requirements for this program are simple.

Qualifying individuals are those who have trouble leaving their homes, are elderly, have a mental and/or physical disability, and are unable to feed themselves.

Another perk to this program is they also provide meals to group settings, such as local community centers. By doing this, the individuals that can safely leave their homes are joining others to eat their meals together.

Alternative Meal Delivery Programs for Seniors

Other meal delivery programs are available nationwide with similar objectives; wanting to help those who need it most. There may be government or health plan assistance available to your area, for some these services are cost-free or very inexpensive and affordable. Individuals over the age of 65, with disabilities, and/or need help while grocery shopping/preparing meals, should seek alternative programs for meal delivery services.

Medicaid members and members of health insurance plans that cover meals on wheels could qualify for other programs. The Social Security Administration of your state will determine eligibility for Medicaid. However, eligibility is automatic if you’re receiving supplemental security income, work first family assistance, or special assistance (for the blind).

Qualifying due to income must demonstrate that they’re incapable of preparing meals by themselves. This can be because of illness or medical conditions, preventing them from taking care of themselves or those with disabilities or incapacitation.

People without the help of another to prepare their meals or food will also qualify for Medicaid’s home food delivery program. A refrigerator or freezer to properly store your meals is mandatory to receive services.

Medicare and Medicaid recipients should contact their case manager about eligibility and state rules. Your case manager can send authorizations to these companies once they confirm you’re eligible.

A common misconception is that Medicare is free; unfortunately, that’s not the case. But, there are some policies that can help lower costs of care. Also, programs such as Meals on Wheels are an amazing resource for seniors and others who have trouble helping and feeding themselves.

To find supplemental options to work with your Medicare benefits, give us a call. Our agents will collect your health information to find the best Medicare Supplement plan available in your area. You can also use our rates form to see your options now.