U.S. Sen. Andy Kim of New Jersey has introduced a bipartisan bicameral bill that would expand Medicare to cover long-term care services provided in the home.

The Medicare At Home Act would add comprehensive home-based personal care benefits to Medicare Part B, allowing older adults and people with disabilities to receive in-home support without having to leave their homes or communities.

“Whether it was his last few months living alone in his own place or now at a care facility, my top priority is making sure my dad can live with dignity and comfort,” Kim said. “Whether seniors are aging at home or elsewhere, this bill gives them and their families the options they deserve by making home care an affordable and accessible option everywhere.”

Michigan Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, who sponsored the legislation in the House, said the legislation would provide families with greater financial security while allowing people to remain independent.

“Whether seniors are aging at home or individuals with disabilities need daily support, care should be accessible and affordable,” Dingell said. “This bill gives families peace of mind by ensuring Medicare covers the essential in-home support people need to live with independence and dignity.”

Medicare currently generally does not cover long-term custodial care at home. Families who need such services can face significant out-of-pocket costs, potentially forcing them to spend down their savings to qualify for Medicaid or rely on unpaid family caregivers.

Under the Medicare At Home Act, Medicare Part B would cover comprehensive personal care services provided in the home. Supporters say the measure would reduce the financial burden on families while giving beneficiaries greater choice over where they receive care.

The bill is intended to help older adults and people with disabilities remain safely in their homes and communities rather than being forced into institutional care because of the cost of home-based assistance.