Definition
In senior care, Medicare refers to federal health insurance for people 65+ and some younger people with disabilities.
Most people become eligible at 65 or through disability. Original Medicare includes Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical). Part D covers prescriptions; Medigap and Medicare Advantage are optional ways to add or replace coverage.
Medicare covers skilled home health and hospice under strict rules but generally not long-term custodial care at home or in a nursing facility.