Most older people need some long-term services and supports during their
lifetimes. Nearly a third of older people are projected to deplete their life savings and turn to Medicaid for assistance as their ability to care for themselves declines. Designed as a program for people with low incomes and few assets, Medicaid is a safety net of last resort for those whose needs exceed what unpaid family and friends can provide, and who exhaust their resources paying out-of-pocket for care.