Memory Care in Louisiana

Table of Contents

Memory Care in Louisiana

Table of Contents

• The Cost of Memory Care in Louisiana
• Louisiana Medicaid Programs for Memory Care
• Can You Use Medicare To Pay for Memory Care in Louisiana?
• More Ways To Pay for Memory Care in Louisiana
• Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Louisiana
• Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Louisiana
• Louisiana COVID-19 Rules for Memory Care Facilities

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When figuring out how to pay for memory care, you first need to understand how much it will cost for your loved one to move to a quality community. As costs continue to rise, it's vital to have the latest details when planning for elderly care costs. In order to shed light on the impact of inflation on senior living costs, MemoryCare.com has gathered cost information from its network of over 75,000 senior living communities. These prices are based on the cost of Memory Care in Louisiana and 14 other cities in Louisiana.

How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Memory Care in Louisiana

The national average cost of memory care rose by 10.5% between 2022 and 2023, but prices in Louisiana dropped by 6%. However, the state's average rate is expected to reach $5,349 in 2024, illustrating the importance of financial planning. Prices are also on an upward track in neighboring states. Rates increased by 7% in Mississippi between 2022 and 2023, and prices in Texas climbed by 4.5% to $3,763. Arkansas experienced a modest increase of 3%, although statewide inflation is predicted to accelerate with rates hitting $5,385 next year. Meanwhile, Alabama had the highest price increase in the region at 8%.

Memory Care Costs in Louisiana's Top Cities

Memory care prices vary significantly between Louisiana's top cities. Baton Rouge has a lower-than-average rate of $3,997, but other major cities are much costlier. Prices in Lafayette are among the state's highest at $5,100 per month, and Shreveport's average rate is over $300 more than the statewide norm. In contrast, Monroe's average rate is more moderate at $4,249 per month. Given this wide range of rates, the importance of price shopping can't be overstated.

The Cost of Other Types of Senior Living

The price of senior living options varies widely due to differences in daily care services and amenities. In Louisiana, independent living is the cheapest option at $2,313 on average. Assisted living is more expensive at $3,903 per month as it provides assistance with daily tasks such as dressing and medication management. Memory care provides a much higher level of day-to-day guidance and support, so it's one of the costliest options at $4,607.

Louisiana Medicaid is an entitlement program, which means all who meet the qualifications for eligibility receive benefits. It covers the cost of memory care through three separate waiver programs: the Community Choices Waiver (CCW), the Long-Term Personal Care Services Program and the Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). These programs provide a wide variety of services to help improve the quality of life for memory care residents.

Community Choices Waiver (CCW)

The Community Choices Waiver provides financial assistance to seniors and those with disabilities who require nursing home care but prefer to receive their care at home or in another type of residential facility. The CCW covers support coordination, skilled nursing, in-home monitoring, meals, personal care and caregiver respite.

• Who Is Eligible: Seniors aged 65 and older who meet nursing home requirements
• How To Apply: Seniors can contact the Louisiana Options in Long-Term Care at (877) 456-1146 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Medicaid Eligibility for Seniors in Louisiana

Medicaid applicants must meet the income requirements as set by the state to receive benefits. As of 2022, the maximum income for a single applicant is $30,276 per year. In a two-person household, the maximum is $30,276 per person. Asset limits are $2,000 for a single applicant and $3,000 when both individuals in a two-person household apply. For households where only one person applies, the asset limit is $137,400. Seniors may receive an additional Monthly Minimum Needs Allowance as defined by the spousal impoverishment rule. This helps reduce the chances of poverty for the spouse left at home.

2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Louisiana

To be eligible for Medicaid, seniors must also be:

• 65 years of age or older
• A full-time resident of Louisiana
• A U.S. citizen, permanent resident or legal alien

How To Get Help Applying for Medicaid in Louisiana

Seniors applying for Medicaid can get assistance from a variety of programs. These programs provide assistance with applications and can answer general questions online, in-person or over the phone.

Unfortunately, Medicare does not generally cover the cost of Memory Care. Most Memory Care Facilities are considered to be "social settings," so Medicare does not cover the cost incurred in these facilities. The only exception to that is if you are receiving memory care services in a Nursing Home. While this situation is much less common, Medicare would sometimes cover the cost, depending on a number of circumstances.

That being said, Medicare does still cover qualified doctor visits, medications, etc., as it would if you were still at home, but it will not cover the cost of care received at the Memory Care Facility.

In addition to the state programs mentioned above, those looking for resources to finance memory care may consider:

• Long-Term Care Insurance: Depending on the policy details, long-term care insurance may be used to pay for memory care services. It's best to sign up for a policy early, as coverage will likely be denied if one already has long-term care needs. More information about the intricacies of long-term care insurance can be found at longtermcare.acl.gov.
• Reverse Mortgages: Reverse mortgages allow some homeowners to take out a loan as an advance from the eventual sale of their primary residence. This can be a good way to fund memory care in the short-term, but the loans will need to be paid back after the sale of the home. The most commonly used type of reverse mortgages for seniors is the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage, which is the only reverse mortgage insured by the federal government.
• Veterans Benefits: The Department of Veterans Affairs offers several programs that veterans and their spouses may use to cover health care needs such as memory care. More information about these programs can be found on the VA website.

Memory Care Regulation

In Louisiana, the Department of Health and Hospitals oversees and regulates assisted living facilities. Under state regulations, Alzheimer's Special Care Units (ASCUs) are adult residential care providers that segregate or offer special programs or units for residents with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or other dementia.

Louisiana mandates that any ASCU must complete an "Alzheimer's Special Care Disclosure Form" that outlines the overall philosophy and mission of the provider's program and describes the criteria and process for admitting, transferring and discharging from the program. The ASCU must also furnish details regarding the process used in performing assessments and training staff. The Department of Health also expects to see a description of the physical environment and types of resident activities as well as a list of fees for care and extra programs.

Facility Scope of Care

Adult residential care providers (ARCPs) must provide or arrange for services, including assistance with ADLs and IADLs, laundry, meals, social activities, housekeeping, transportation and a recreational program. Each facility must ensure that needed services are available, whether through a third-party provider or the resident's family. Residents can provide or arrange for care not available through the facility at their own expense, as long as the residency conditions are honored.

Admissions Requirements

ARCPs may admit residents with a wide range of conditions, but there are certain restrictions as well. The table below gives an overview of who may or may not be admitted.

Residents Who May Be Admitted

Older adults and people with:

• Dementia
• Mental Health Conditions
• Developmental Disabilities
• Physical Disabilities
• AIDS
• Traumatic Brain Injuries

Residents Who May NOT Be Admitted

Those:

• Requiring full-time nursing care
• With level 3 or level 4 pressure ulcers
• Who need the total assistance of a breathing apparatus
• Who are permanently bedridden
• Who are comatose
• Who are a danger to themselves or others

Care Plan Requirements

According to the Louisiana Administrative Code, ARCPs must perform and document an initial assessment of the resident's needs. The screening must include information on the resident's physical and mental status as well as the need for assistance with ADLs and IADLs. The ARCP must use this assessment in devising the resident's care plan within 21 days of admission. The care plan has to be reviewed at least annually and revised, as necessary, by the staff involved in the resident's care.

Medication Management Requirements

Staff with documented training can supervise the self-administration of medications and assist with reminders, opening containers, pouring medication and bringing it to residents. Staff administration of medications is allowed in all ARCPs in accordance with residents' care plans. Medications can only be administered by a person currently licensed by the appropriate state agency. Intravenous therapy may be administered by staff under the supervision of a licensed practitioner in level 4 facilities only. The resident, the resident's representative or the ARCP may contract with another individual or agency to administer medications

Facility Requirements

ARCPs may house up to two residents per resident unit. Level 1 and 2 facilities must have one bathroom for every four residents; level 3 and 4 facilities must have a separate, complete bathroom in each apartment. Facilities that accept residents with dementia or exit-seeking behaviors must provide an enclosed area adjacent to the facility so the residents may go outside safely.

Staffing Requirements

Louisiana doesn't impose staffing ratios. Each ARCP must have at least a director, a designated activities coordinator and a direct care staff person. Employees who work directly with residents who have dementia must obtain at least eight hours of evidenced-based dementia training within 90 days of employment in addition to eight hours of such training annually. Staff who have regular contact with residents must obtain a minimum of four hours of dementia training within 90 days of employment as well as two hours of dementia training annually.

Medicaid Policy

Medicaid reimburses assisted living facilities for services rendered to seniors covered by Medicaid waivers or enrolled and receiving personal care coverage. These individuals must be eligible for institutional level of care. The reimbursement includes coverage of assistance with ADLs.

Reporting Abuse

The Elderly Protective Services in the Governor's Office of Elderly Affairs investigates and intervenes appropriately in cases of abuse, neglect and exploitation involving Louisiana residents aged 60 years and older. The office can be reached at 1-833-577-6532 or by mail at: Governor's Office of Elderly Affairs, P.O. Box 61, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-0661.

Louisiana's Health Standards Section provides a complaint form for filing grievances against any health care facility licensed by the Department of Health. Once completed, the form should be mailed to: Health Standards Section, P.O. Box 3767, Baton Rouge, LA 70821. The HHS can be reached at 225-342-0138.

In Louisiana, there is an abundance of resources designed to assist seniors throughout their retirement. MemoryCare.com has compiled information on a range of local organizations, programs, and agencies, categorizing them based on the care services they offer for easy browsing.

Area Agency on Aging

The Area Agency on Aging in Louisiana is a crucial asset for retired individuals, providing advice on financial assistance, home-based care, and planning for extended care. It also connects seniors and their caregivers with local resources.

Cash Assistance Programs

Financial assistance initiatives exist in Louisiana to help seniors with low income sustain their home living. These initiatives provide tax reductions, discounts on crucial services, and aid for home temperature regulation costs.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living

Elderly individuals in Louisiana, living independently or in elderly care homes, can avail of numerous local financial support opportunities. These aid options help reduce in-home or long-term care costs and connect them to valuable community resources.

Food Assistance Programs

In Louisiana, numerous community programs focus on enhancing the health of seniors via proper diet. These initiatives provide meal delivery, shared meals, and food bank services, guaranteeing that older citizens can obtain reasonably priced, healthy food.

Free Used Medical Equipment

In Louisiana, several organizations are tackling the high cost of new medical devices. They collect lightly used equipment such as wheelchairs, ramps, and walkers, distributing them to local elderly and those requiring assistance.

Home Repair and Modifications

In Louisiana, a variety of programs exist to support seniors and those with disabilities in funding home improvements and repairs. These initiatives, providing grants or loans, feature different eligibility criteria tailored for retired individuals.

Legal Resources

In Louisiana, there are several organizations offering cost-effective or free legal aid to senior citizens. They provide advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills, and power of attorney. Some also champion the rights of the elderly in long-term care establishments.

Senior Engagement

In Louisiana, numerous initiatives are in place to keep seniors involved and energetic. These encompass health programs, opportunities for volunteer work, and supportive communities, all designed to promote social participation and improve the quality of life.

Social Security Offices

In Louisiana, Social Security offices are crucial resources for the elderly and those with disabilities. They provide advice on retirement perks, disability benefits, and additional security income.

Tax Assistance

In Louisiana, a variety of tax assistance options exist for seniors and people with disabilities. These encompass possible medical cost exemptions, property tax cuts, and other tax alleviation measures.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

In Louisiana, there are establishments ready to assist seniors with limited income facing challenges with home upkeep expenses, such as energy and utility bills. Emergency financial support might be available for individuals threatened with utility disconnection due to outstanding payments.

Veteran's Services

In Louisiana, retired military personnel can find essential support through local veteran services. These organizations help veterans access their deserved benefits and offer advice on a variety of issues.

Note: The following information was compiled and most recently updated on 2/8/2022. Since COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving crisis, be sure to contact your Memory Care Facility or local Area Agency on Aging for the most up-to-date information.