Statistics from the Alzheimer's Association reveal that Alzheimer's disease presently affects 24,000 Rhode Island residents aged 65 and older, and the prevalence of dementia is expected to increase by 12.5% over the next five years. Dementia disorders are the fourth-leading cause of death in the state, and these devastating illnesses are responsible for one-third of all senior deaths in the U.S. each year. By 2060, the CDC predicts that 14 million Americans will be living with Alzheimer's and related forms of dementia, which is almost triple the current number of individuals affected nationwide.
Memory care facilities provide those living with Alzheimer's and dementia with care that is tailored to their unique needs. Memory care can take place in its own facility, or as part of a designated wing of another residential care community. Staff members of memory care units or facilities undergo specialized training in caring for those with memory impairment, and the facilities often coordinate social activities and schedules specifically for the needs of those living with Alzheimer's or dementia.
This guide will cover the cost of memory care in Rhode Island, financial assistance options for paying for memory care, free memory care resources in the state, and a directory of memory care facilities in Rhode Island.
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 Rhode Island and 5 other cities in Rhode Island.
Inflation has significantly affected the cost of memory care in Rhode Island, causing prices to hit $7,307 in 2023. While the U.S. average is a much lower $5,369, most surrounding states sit in a similar range to Rhode Island. However, inflation has affected each location differently. Connecticut's prices fell 0.73%, while costs rose 1.8% in Massachusetts. New York is cheaper than Rhode Island at $6,449, but this price is substantially higher than in 2022 and will likely remain stable into 2024, based on trends. Costs in New Hampshire jumped to $7,169 but may rise by a further 6.5% in 2024.
Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
---|---|---|---|
Rhode Island | $6,008 | $7,307 | $7,782 |
U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
Massachusetts | $7,570 | $7,706 | $7,782 |
Connecticut | $7,310 | $7,257 | $7,637 |
New York | $5,244 | $6,449 | $6,416 |
New Hampshire | $6,364 | $7,169 | $7,635 |
Memory care is available at several prices, depending on where seniors are in Rhode Island. Smithfield is one of the cheapest cities overall, averaging just $4,600, Cumberland and Warwick are also both highly affordable at $6,200 and $6,250. There's a significant jump in expenses for seniors living in East Providence, where costs average $9,471, which might prompt some seniors to move elsewhere to save money.
When comparing different types of care, assisted living is generally more expensive than independent living due to high staff-to-resident ratios and additional amenities. However, at an average of $4,997, assisted living costs only slightly more than independent living, averaging $4,250 in Rhode Island. Memory care, on the other hand, costs $7,307, typically because the staffing requirements are even stricter, and many communities hire additional professionals, such as registered nurses and social workers.
Low-income seniors and others in Rhode Island may qualify for memory care via Medicaid, but the state doesn't provide coverage for this or assisted living services by default. Medicaid coverage for these services — collectively referred to as Long-term Services and Supports (LTSS) — may be provided based on additional program criteria. As this guide focuses on the elderly and people with disabilities who need memory care services, the Medicaid requirements detailed throughout this guide are for the Aged, Blind or Disabled (ABD) category of eligibility.
Medicaid Long-term Services and Supports (LTSS)
In Rhode Island, the Medicaid LTSS program opens up a wide range of options for Medicaid recipients to get the care they need. Much of the program focuses on seniors and people with disabilities who live independently in the community, such as meal delivery, transport, and social opportunities. Memory care services in residential care communities may also be covered for eligible residents.
Income and asset limits for Medicaid are determined by the applicant's living arrangements, source(s) of income, medical needs and expected costs. In Rhode Island, aged, blind and/or disabled (ABD) residents are eligible with income up to 300% of the federal benefit rate (FBR). This sets a maximum annual income of $30,276 for a single applicant as of 2022 and is subject to change alongside the FBR. The maximum value of countable assets is $4,000.
For two-person households, income and asset limits are significantly different and wide-ranging due to spousal impoverishment rules. These rules allow a non-applicant spouse living in the community to retain a higher value of assets.
2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Rhode Island
family size | annual income limits | asset limits |
---|---|---|
Single Person | $30,276 | $4,000 |
Two-Person Household (Single Applicant) | $30,276 | $4,000 (spousal impoverishment rules may increase limit to $137,400) |
Two-Person Household (Dual Applicants) | $60,552 | $8,000 |
In addition to the financial criteria, people who need memory care service coverage must meet the following requirements.
Applicants may also be asked to provide financial records, other documents and proof as needed during the enrollment.
Due to the complex nature of eligibility requirements and Medicaid coverage in general, help is freely available from various sources throughout Rhode Island. In-person and telephone assistance for all Medicaid-related concerns is provided by the DHS. Other sources of help include the Office of Healthy Aging and certified application counselors.
resource | contact | description |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island Department of Human Services | 855-697-4347 | The state DHS is responsible for Medicaid and several other programs. Residents who have questions about Medicaid and LTSS eligibility or need help making an application can contact this statewide call center or visit the website for local offices. |
HealthSource RI Application Counselors / Navigators | 855-840-4774 | As the official health coverage marketplace for the state, HealthSource RI employs specialist staff — Navigators and Application Counselors — to help residents determine eligibility and apply for Medicaid and health insurance at the same time. Applications can also be submitted online and help is available during business hours by telephone and live chat. |
Official Access Point | 401-462-4444 | Residents aged 55+ and people with disabilities can contact The Point by phone or in person for help understanding and applying for Medicaid and other potential sources of funding. Regional offices are listed on the website. |
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:
Rhode Island assisted living facilities are licensed and regulated by the state's Department of Health, Center for Health Facility Regulation. The type of license a facility requires is based on the following fire code and medication administration classifications:
Assisted living facilities that provide dementia care must have an F1-M1 license. Facilities must also obtain a dementia special care unit license if:
The CHFR inspects all licensed facilities annually to ensure compliance with state regulations and investigates complaints.
The care services provided in Rhode Island assisted living facilities and dementia special care units should include:
Rhode Island assisted living facilities and dementia special care units may admit adults and seniors with various care requirements and conditions, including Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. The following table provides an overview of the criteria that affects admittance to an assisted living facility, according to state regulations:
Residents Who May Be Admitted and Retained By ALFs and Dementia Special Care Units
Seniors and adults who:
Residents Who May NOT Be Admitted or Must Be Discharged:
Individuals who:
Each new resident admitted to assisted living facilities and dementia special care units must be evaluated by a registered nurse to determine the individual's health, social, physical, cognitive and functional needs. The written evaluation must be completed using the DOH's Assisted Living Resident Assessment form and signed by the RN conducting the evaluation. A care plan must be developed for each resident based on their assessment within a reasonable period after admission.
In M1 facilities that provide memory care, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and registered medication aides may administer topical and oral medications and monitor related health indicators. Unlicensed staff members must complete four hours of RN-administered training and pass an exam to be registered as medication aides. Schedule II medications may only be administered by licensed staff.
Assisted living facilities that offer memory care and dementia special care units must have security features to ensure resident safety and quality of life, such as locking mechanisms and secured perimeters. Facilities may offer single rooms and shared rooms that accommodate no more than two residents. Single rooms must be at least 100 square feet in size, and shared rooms must provide at least 160 square feet of usable space. Rooms must have lockable storage areas for the safekeeping of residents' personal possessions. Facilities are required to have at least one toilet for every eight beds and a shower or tub for every 10 beds, at a minimum.
Licensed facilities must employ a DOH-certified administrator who is responsible for its proper and safe operation. There are no mandated staff ratios, but facilities are required to have sufficient staff on duty to provide the necessary care and ensure the physical and mental well-being of residents. Dementia special care units must have trained and experienced registered nurses on staff to manage residents' dementia-related health and behavioral issues.
Direct care staff members who work with residents with dementia must receive four hours of initial training on relevant topics and two hours of ongoing training annually. New staff in dementia care units must complete 12-hours of orientation and training that covers understanding the various types of dementia, effective communication and behavior management.
The Rhode Island Medicaid program does not cover memory care or assisted living services as entitlements. However, it does offer the Global Consumer Choice Compact Waiver, which may provide financial aid for eligible seniors who receive memory care in an assisted living facility.
Concerned parties can report suspected resident neglect or abuse in an assisted living facility or dementia special care unit by contacting the Department of Elderly Affairs Protective Services Unit at 401-462-0555.
In Rhode Island, 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.
The Area Agency on Aging in 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.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Point: My Options Rhode Island ADRC | 401-444-0600 | The Point ADRC in Rhode Island offers a range of services for older adults and individuals with disabilities. Trained counselors provide 24/7 phone support, with interpreters available in over 100 languages. Referrals are available for family members concerned about memory or cognitive symptoms. Additional services include Medicare assistance, caregiver support, long-term care help, and nutrition, energy, and healthcare assistance. |
Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging | 401-462-3000 | The Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging supports the well-being of Rhode Islanders as they age. They offer a variety of services for seniors aged 55 and older, such as housing assistance, at-home care, meal delivery, transportation, and respite care. They also provide legal aid, prescription drug cost assistance, chronic disease management, and free health insurance counseling. |
Financial assistance initiatives exist in Rhode Island 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.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island Lifeline Program | 800-234-9473 | The LifeLine Program offers discounted telephone service, enabling participants to stay connected with their loved ones through landline or mobile phones. |
Elderly individuals in Rhode Island, 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.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island Nursing Home Transition Program | 401-462-6393 | The NHTP, a program under the Health and Human Services Department, assists nursing home residents in transitioning to their homes or community-based settings such as memory care programs and assisted living. |
In Rhode Island, local initiatives offer financial support to seniors with low income residing in community living spaces. These resources are crucial in assisting elderly individuals to manage the costs of long-term care services.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
LeadingAge Rhode Island (LARI) | 401-490-7612 | LeadingAge Rhode Island is a non-profit organization that brings together aging services providers, including nursing homes, day health service providers, and senior housing providers. Our goal is to connect seniors with the right service providers and offer information and advocacy services to improve their quality of life as they age. |
Rhode Island Assisted Living Association | 401-435-8888 | RIALA is a nonprofit membership organization that caters to professionals in the assisted living sector. The website acts as a valuable resource for individuals seeking information on assisted living, including its operations, payment options, and facilities that accept public funding. It also serves as a useful platform for those interested in acquiring knowledge about assisted living. |
In Rhode Island, 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.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island Community Food Bank | 401-942-6325 | The Rhode Island Community Food Bank partners with over 140 agencies, supporting around 80,000 residents each month. They help individuals experiencing food insecurity, including seniors, by connecting them with nearby food distribution centers, assisting with SNAP benefit applications, and providing access to the federal Commodity Supplemental Food Program. They also offer a spice box program to ensure participants have a range of flavoring options in their pantries. |
Rhode Island Meals on Wheels | 401-351-6700 | Meals on Wheels in Rhode Island delivers nutritious meals to participants statewide, providing one-third of the recommended daily dietary intake. With daily weekday deliveries, the program also offers a well-being check and aims to reduce isolation. Additional services include cafe programs and pet food delivery. |
Rhode Island Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) | 401-222-4700 | The Rhode Island Farmers Market Nutrition Program is a USDA initiative that helps seniors access fresh fruits and vegetables. Eligible adults over 60 receive food parcels twice a year, including locally sourced produce, honey, and herbs. Low-income seniors meeting specific income criteria can sign up at various locations or online. Pickup locations are conveniently located throughout Rhode Island, with more information available online. |
Rhode Island Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 855-697-4347 | The Rhode Island Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps low-income seniors and families access healthy food. Eligibility is determined by income, expenses, and resources. Recipients receive electronic benefits transfer cards, similar to debit cards. These cards are accepted at supermarkets, grocery stores, farmers markets, and select online retailers. They cannot be used for alcohol, tobacco, or prepared food items. |
In Rhode Island, 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.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan (ATEL) Program | 401-486-3325 | ATEL provides specialized home telephone and wireless services designed for individuals facing challenges with regular telephones due to hearing impairments, speech disabilities, or neuromuscular conditions. Our adaptive solutions cater to the unique needs of these individuals, ensuring they can communicate effectively and stay connected with their loved ones. Experience the freedom and convenience of our services, tailored to enhance communication for all. |
Rhode Island Assistive Technology Access Partnership (ATAP) | 401-871-1145 | ATAP is a statewide organization that facilitates the distribution of assistive technology to residents. Its device reuse program enables individuals to acquire durable medical equipment. |
Rhode Island Assistive Technology, Equipment & Home Modifications Program | 866-857-1161 | OSCIL is a valuable resource that helps individuals find assistive technology to enhance their daily lives. It also provides access to appropriate devices through loan and reutilization programs. |
Rhode Island Robert J. Allen Medical Equipment Distribution Center | 401-738-1013 | The Medical Equipment Distribution Center in Warwick offers complimentary pre-owned medical equipment, including wheelchairs, commodes, lift chairs, and hospital beds. |
In Rhode Island, 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.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island Livable Homes Modification Grant Program | 401-737-1238 | RI Livable grants provide reimbursement for home modifications, such as ramps, widened doorways, home monitoring systems, and backup electric generators for life-sustaining equipment. The grants aim to improve accessibility and safety in current residences. |
Rhode Island Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | WAP offers homeowners cost-saving solutions to enhance energy efficiency. Our services include insulation installation, draft reduction, and ventilation improvement. We also provide smoke and carbon monoxide detector installation for added safety. |
In Rhode Island, 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.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island StateLong Term Care Ombudsman Program | 401-785-3340 | The Rhode Island Alliance for Better Long Term Care Ombudsman Program provides seniors in shared living environments, such as memory care facilities, assisted living communities, and nursing homes, with support. Ombudsmen serve as advocates, helping seniors prevent or address elder abuse and ensuring they receive proper care. They also represent senior interests to government agencies and raise awareness about important senior issues. |
Grasping Medicaid complexities, particularly for the elderly, can be daunting. A wealth of resources in Rhode Island provide insights into Medicaid options, waiver programs, and qualification criteria, aiding seniors in obtaining suitable health care benefits.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
RIte @ Home | 401-462-5274 | The RIte@Home program provides shared living for seniors in need of assistance. Participants are paired with a caregiver, who can be someone they know, like a relative or neighbor. Caregivers receive training, support, and a stipend for offering personal care, meals, transportation, and homemaker services. The program covers the caregiver's stipend, but room and board expenses are not included. Depending on income, recipients may be responsible for a portion of the cost. |
In Rhode Island, elderly individuals find a community hub in senior centers, offering a range of recreational pursuits, events, and essential resources. These centers also provide health programs, dietary advice, and support for issues related to senior living.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Disability Rights Rhode Island | 800-733-5332 | DRRI is an advocacy group that supports disabled individuals in the state by providing representation. Although it does not directly provide durable medical equipment, it helps in finding funding from public sources. Moreover, DRRI offers assistance to those who encounter denials or delays in obtaining equipment from Medicare and Medicaid. |
In Rhode Island, 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.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island Social Security | Social Security offers financial support to retirees and those unable to work due to disability. It is funded through payroll taxes paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Monthly payments during retirement are based on past earnings. |
In Rhode Island, 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.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island Property Tax Relief Program | 401-574-8829 | Rhode Island provides property tax relief to senior citizens through a tax credit on personal income tax. The credit amount is based on a percentage of the household income. |
For Rhode Island seniors facing challenges with private transport, assistance is readily available. Community resources are on hand to support the elderly and disabled with their in-city mobility, making tasks and city appointments more manageable.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Services | 855-330-9131 | Medical Transportation Management, Inc. provides Rhode Island Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Services, catering to seniors aged 60 and above who lack transportation options. Complimentary transportation is available for non-emergency medical appointments. To ensure a smooth experience, trips must be scheduled at least 48 hours in advance. Urgent medical needs? Same-day trips are available. Contact our MTM office on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to request transportation. |
In Rhode Island, 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.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | 855-697-4347 | The Rhode Island Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program supports seniors by providing financial aid for heating bills. Eligibility is determined by income, with seniors needing to earn no more than 60% of the state's median income. The program offers direct payments to energy and utility companies and can assist seniors in heating emergencies. Applications are accepted from September to May. |
Rhode Island Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) | LIHWAP helps low-income households maintain access to drinking water and wastewater services by making one-time payments to utility companies for overdue bills. This assistance prevents service termination and ensures that individuals can continue to have essential water services. |
In Rhode Island, 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.
program-name | phone-number | description |
---|---|---|
Rhode Island VA Benefits and Health Care | The Rhode Island VA Benefits and Health Care program provides a range of support to senior veterans, including long-term assistance, routine and specialized care at VA medical centers, and income support like service-connected disability payments and retirement pensions. Veterans can access these services at offices and clinics located in Providence, Warwick, and Middletown. |
Note: The following information was compiled and most recently updated on 2/13/2022. 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.
question | answer |
---|
*Note: This information was not available for this state, contact your local area agency on aging or senior living facility for more information.