Memory Care in Rhode Island | MemoryCare.com

Memory Care in Rhode Island

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.

The Cost of Memory Care 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.

How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Memory Care 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.

Location2022 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 Costs in Rhode Island's Top Cities

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.

The Cost of Other Types of Senior Living

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.

Rhode Island Medicaid Programs for Memory Care

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.

  • Who Is Eligible: Aged 65+ or blind or disabled, with income and assets at or below the limits outlined below.
  • How To Apply: Visit the HealthSource RI website to apply for Medicaid or contact the closest DHS office. Help in the application process is also available from the resources noted further down in this guide.

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.

  • Who Is Eligible: Applicants for LTSS must be receiving or eligible for Medicaid and evaluated as to their need for the requested services. Services may be provided in a community-based environment, such as a memory care program, assisted living or private residence.
  • How to Apply: Visit or call a nearby DHS office or contact the statewide helpline at 1-855-697-4347. Application forms can also be downloaded and printed. Current Medicaid recipients should contact their case manager or call the DHS.

Medicaid Eligibility for Seniors in Rhode Island

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 sizeannual income limitsasset 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.

  • State residency (currently living at an address in Rhode Island)
  • U.S. citizen, national or other satisfactory immigration status
  • Level of care assessed at "high" or above (evaluation focuses on the applicant's current diagnosis, functional activity, cognitive status and any ongoing treatments)

Applicants may also be asked to provide financial records, other documents and proof as needed during the enrollment.

How To Get Help Applying for Medicaid in Rhode Island

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.

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Rhode Island Department of Human Services855-697-4347The 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 / Navigators855-840-4774As 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 Point401-462-4444Residents 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.

Can You Use Medicare To Pay for Memory Care in Rhode Island?

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.

More Ways To Pay for Memory Care in Rhode Island

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.
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Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Rhode Island

Memory Care Regulation

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:

  • F1: Facilities with residents who cannot self-preserve in the event of an emergency
  • F2: Facilities with residents who can self-evacuate in an emergency situation
  • M1: Facilities that provide central storage and administration of medications
  • M2: Facilities that only offer assistance with self-administration of medications

Assisted living facilities that provide dementia care must have an F1-M1 license. Facilities must also obtain a dementia special care unit license if:

  • One or more residents have dementia symptoms that affect their functional abilities
  • The facility advertises that it offers dementia services
  • Residents with memory impairment are housed in a separate, secured area

The CHFR inspects all licensed facilities annually to ensure compliance with state regulations and investigates complaints.

Facility Scope of Care

The care services provided in Rhode Island assisted living facilities and dementia special care units should include:

  • Administration of medications or assistance with self-administration
  • Assistance arranging support services
  • Monitoring of health and well-being
  • Housekeeping and laundry services
  • Therapeutic, recreational and social activities
  • Personal care assistance
  • Transportation services
  • Access to nursing and skilled therapy services
  • Three balanced meals each day that meet residents' medical regimens

Admissions Requirements

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:

  • Require meals, lodging, personal care and medication management assistance
  • Require no more than 45 days of therapy or skilled nursing services
  • Are receiving hospice care and are bedbound or need ambulation assistance

Residents Who May NOT Be Admitted or Must Be Discharged:

Individuals who:

  • Require skilled nursing or medical care on an ongoing basis
  • Are chronically bedbound or require help with ambulation from more than one person
  • Do not meet the facility's residency agreement criteria
  • Pose a danger to themselves or other residents

Care Plan Requirements

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.

Medication Management Requirements

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.

Facility Requirements

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.

Staffing Requirements

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.

Medicaid Policy

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.

Reporting Abuse

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.

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Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Rhode Island

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.

Area Agency on Aging

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-namephone-numberdescription
Point: My Options Rhode Island ADRC401-444-0600The 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 Aging401-462-3000The 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.

Cash Assistance Programs

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.

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Rhode Island Lifeline Program800-234-9473The LifeLine Program offers discounted telephone service, enabling participants to stay connected with their loved ones through landline or mobile phones.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living

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-namephone-numberdescription
Rhode Island Nursing Home Transition Program401-462-6393The 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.

Financial Assistance for Senior 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-namephone-numberdescription
LeadingAge Rhode Island (LARI)401-490-7612LeadingAge 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 Association401-435-8888RIALA 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.

Food Assistance Programs

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-namephone-numberdescription
Rhode Island Community Food Bank401-942-6325The 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 Wheels401-351-6700Meals 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)401-222-4700The 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)855-697-4347The 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.

Free Used Medical Equipment

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-namephone-numberdescription
Rhode Island Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan (ATEL) Program401-486-3325ATEL 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)401-871-1145ATAP 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 Program866-857-1161OSCIL 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 Center401-738-1013The Medical Equipment Distribution Center in Warwick offers complimentary pre-owned medical equipment, including wheelchairs, commodes, lift chairs, and hospital beds.

Home Repair and Modifications

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-namephone-numberdescription
Rhode Island Livable Homes Modification Grant Program401-737-1238RI 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-namephone-numberdescription
Rhode Island StateLong Term Care Ombudsman Program401-785-3340The 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.

Medicaid Resources

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.

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RIte @ Home401-462-5274The 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.

Senior Centers

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-namephone-numberdescription
Disability Rights Rhode Island800-733-5332DRRI 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.

Social Security Offices

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-namephone-numberdescription
Rhode Island Social SecuritySocial 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.

Tax Assistance

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-namephone-numberdescription
Rhode Island Property Tax Relief Program401-574-8829Rhode 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.

Transportation Assistance

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-namephone-numberdescription
Rhode Island Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Services855-330-9131Medical 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.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

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.

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Rhode Island Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)855-697-4347The 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.

Veteran's 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-namephone-numberdescription
Rhode Island VA Benefits and Health CareThe 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.

Rhode Island COVID-19 Rules for Memory Care Facilities

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.

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*Note: This information was not available for this state, contact your local area agency on aging or senior living facility for more information.

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