Thanks to a recent, important policy change, Medicare now covers 80 percent of certain medical services for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Due to this change, Medicare can no longer deny coverage for these services solely because the person needing them has Alzheimer's disease, a problem that had been occurring - and may still be occurring, since the policy change is recent - in some areas of the country.

The services Medicare now covers include "reasonable and necessary" doctors' visits; physical, occupational or speech therapy; psychotherapy or behavioral management therapy by a mental health professional, and skilled home-care services (such as skilled nursing, speech or physical therapy). Medicare does not pay for prescription drugs for Alzheimer's, adult day care, room and board at assisted living facilities, or custodial care in a nursing home, though it will pay for medically necessary skilled-care services at assisted living facilities or nursing homes.

Medicaid, a joint federal, state and local program for people with limited income or assets, may cover certain aspects of Alzheimer's treatment. Guidelines vary by state or region, so to find out what is covered in your home area, contact the state or local welfare agency that administers Medicaid in your area.

Medigap plans, health insurance plans that supplement Medicare benefits, may cover some aspects of Alzheimer's treatment not reimbursed by Medicare, but the extent of coverage depends upon the plan you've chosen. Check with a Medigap provider to find out what is covered. Click here to learn more about.

Private health insurance plans also vary widely in reimbursement policies for Alzheimer's treatment. Check with the administrator of your plan, or your doctor's office, to find out what is covered