Is Assisted Living Free?

Date Updated: July 26, 2024

Written by:

Rachel Lustbader

Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.

Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers

Assisted living isn’t free. Assisted living residents pay an average of $4,500 per month for room and board, help with activities of daily living, meals, transportation and other services. The annual cost of assisted living is about $54,000.

Does Medicaid or Medicarepay for assisted living?

Medicare doesn’t cover assisted living, but Medicaid may pay for part of the assisted living costs in many states. To qualify for a Medicaid state waiver program, you must have limited income or a disability. Explore the specific requirements in your area to see if you or your loved one may be eligible.

What should you do if you can’t pay for assisted living?

Look into Medicaid eligibility as well as state and local resources for seniors if you need help but can’t pay for assisted living. In addition, the Aid and Attendance Program helps veterans pay for assisted living. Some seniors qualify for Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability. You can use these benefits toward assisted living costs.

The Area Agency on Aging offers information about available programs in your town or county. For example, the Supportive Housing for the Elderly program, also called Supportive Living, provides subsidized rent in supportive housing communities for older adults with limited income in some states.

Many older adults decide to age in place in their current homes. This arrangement is often more affordable than assisted living while allowing you to stay independent. A professional assistant can help you with activities, including cooking and housekeeping, as needed at an hourly or daily rate.