Maryland is an attractive location for older adults who are considering in-home care. Residents can enjoy a high quality of life with easy access to beaches, historic sites, major East Coast cities and the nation’s capital. Seniors benefit from world-class medical facilities, including Johns Hopkins Hospital the University of Maryland Medical Center. Plus, health care costs are slightly lower than the national average. The state also has several licensed home care and home health agencies. The median cost of in-home care is $5,148 per month, which is slightly higher than the national average. Agencies that provide medical care and skilled therapy in addition to help with chores and personal care may charge slightly more.

If you want a location that’s well-connected and offers plenty of amenities, look no further than Maryland. The Old Line State provides everything that its almost 1 million seniors need to thrive. In this guide, you’ll find information about long-term care prices in Maryland and the state’s Medicaid benefits for home care. We’ve also included information about the latest regulations for home care providers and a directory of statewide resources to help you age in place.

The Cost of In-Home Care in Maryland

In-home chore assistance and personal care costs $5,148 per month in Maryland, according to Genworth Financial’s 2021 Cost of Care Survey. This study estimates that seniors require 44 hours of care per week. Prices in Maryland are typical for the mid-Atlantic region. Seniors in Delaware and Washington, D.C., pay several hundred dollars more at $5,339 and $5,577, respectively. West Virginia is the cheapest option at $3,527. With a median of $4,767, Virginia is $381 cheaper than Maryland. Home care prices in Pennsylvania are on par with the national average, which could save you $191 per month.

$5148

Maryland

$4957

The United States

$4957

Pennsylvania

$4767

Virginia

$5577

Washington, D.C.

$3527

West Virginia

$5339

Delaware

Home care prices in Maryland’s largest cities are all even with or lower than the state median. California is the most affordable location, with an average of $4,576. Prices rose to $4,957 in Baltimore, Cumberland and Salisbury. Prices are even with the state median in Hagerstown at $5,148.

$4957

Baltimore

$5148

Hagerstown

$4576

California

$4957

Salisbury

$4957

Cumberland

In-home care provides maximum flexibility when it comes to the level of support that you receive. You might request help a few hours a week or have someone come in every day. The median cost for 44 hours of weekly home care or home health care is $5,148. Adult day health care costs less than $2,000 per month. Programs may include meals, recreational activities and physical therapy. Assisted living costs $4,900 per month, including room, board and personal assistance. The cost for nursing home care jumps considerably to $10,342. 

$5148

In-Home Care

$5148

Home Health Care

$10342

Nursing Home Care

$4900

Assisted Living

$1928

Adult Day Health Care

Does Medicaid Cover Home Care in Maryland?

Maryland provides State Plan home health care services to certain seniors and low-income adults. The state also provides home- and community-based waiver services. These programs have higher income limits in some cases, but applicants must be disabled or require a specific level of care.

Home Care Waiver Programs in Maryland

Maryland’s Medical Assistance program provides a group of community-based waivers that are available to individuals who meet financial criteria and require help with daily activities due to a medical or functional need.

Waiver
Contact
Area Serviced
Services Provided

(844) 627-5465

Statewide

Community Personal Assistance Services provides in-home personal assistance, case management and nurse-supervised medical monitoring. This program supports low-income seniors who need help with activities of daily living. It also covers home health care, diagnostic services, medical equipment and all other Medicaid benefits. Maryland Access Point can provide more information about this program and the application process.

(844) 627-5465

Statewide

Community First Choice is an HCBS waiver available to Medicaid-eligible seniors and adults who receive SSI. Applicants must require an institutional level of care to qualify. The program covers in-home care, case management services, emergency alert systems, home modifications and meal deliveries. Beneficiaries receive full medical care and other supports.

(844) 627-5465

Statewide

The Home- and Community-Based Community Options Waiver covers an array of supportive services, including personal care, home health care, medical equipment, emergency response systems, delivered meals and long-term care transitions. Income is limited to 300% of the SSI benefit rate with $2,000 to $2,500 in assets. There's a waiting list for this program.

(844) 627-5465

Statewide

If you currently reside in a nursing home and earn too much to qualify for other Medicaid programs, you may be eligible for Increased Community Services. It covers in-home assistance, medical monitoring, meals, accessibility modifications, senior center programs, transition assistance and many other services. You must meet nursing home residency requirements, with at least 30 of 90 days covered by Medicaid. If you earn over 300% of the SSI benefit rate, these funds must be spent on your community-based care. Additional information is available through Maryland Access Point.

(410) 550-8093

Select Counties

PACE is an integrated care model that focuses on keeping seniors out of nursing homes. It provides medical care and long-term care, including community-based services and recreational programs through a single organization. Hopkins ElderPlus has provided these services in Baltimore for over 20 years. Additional programs are launching in West Baltimore, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County and rural Allegany County. PACE accepts adults aged 55 and older who are eligible for Medicaid and/or Medicare.

How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Maryland

Medicaid is an income-based program, so there are strict limits on how much income you can have and how much property you may own. Maryland caps applicants’ yearly income at $4,200 for individuals or $4,704 for couples for regular Medicaid and some Aged, Blind and Disabled programs. Other ABD programs have income limits of 200% or 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. Assets are limited to $2,500 for individuals or $3,000 for couples. 

The government offers spousal income allowances and property exemptions, in some cases. Additionally, there are medically needy qualification pathways for seniors who spend the majority of their income on medical or long-term care.

2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Maryland

Income Limits*
Asset Limits

Single Person

$4,200

$2,500

Two-Person Household

$4,704

$3,000

*Per year

To qualify for Medicaid home care, you must: 

  • Be a Maryland resident
  • Be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant
  • Be aged, disabled or in another priority group
  • Be willing to provide a Social Security number
  • Meet income and asset limits
  • Meet medical eligibility requirements (for some services)

How to Apply for Medicaid in Maryland

If you want to apply for Medicaid, you can complete the process online at MDTHink, a public benefits portal operated by the Department of Human Services. You can also apply in person or by mail. You’ll need to locate your county’s Department of Social Services or Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Individuals in Baltimore and several counties may visit the Bureau of Long Term Care for assistance. 

What Information You Will Need 

According to the state government, it takes most individuals 20 to 45 minutes to apply for Medicaid. You can save time if you have the following documents on hand. If you’re required to provide documentation, send copies as originals can’t be returned. 

  • Name and date of birth
  • Social Security number
  • Residency information
  • Any other government benefits you receive
  • Address or place of residence
  • Medical and financial needs
  • Assets sold or transferred in the past find years
  • Monthly expenses
  • Financial obligations
  • All sources of income
  • Federal Tax returns
  • Financial statements
  • Legal documents, such as power of attorney
  • Health insurance information
  • Life insurance policies

How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid

If you need help applying for benefits or accessing the services that you’re entitled to, contact the following agencies for assistance.

Contact
Area Served
Services Provided

(800) 456-8900

Statewide

If you have questions about your application or the state’s Medicaid benefits, contact the Medical Assistance hotline for help. It can also be used to check the status of your application.

See Directory

By County

For help understanding your insurance options and which financial assistance programs may be available to you, contact a local Medicaid Navigator who works at Maryland Health Connection, the state’s health insurance marketplace.

(844) 627-5465

Statewide

Senior Legal Assistance is a statewide program that provides free assistance to seniors aged 60 and older. Attorneys and law centers are available to help seniors with questions or concerns about Medicaid and other government benefits.

See Directory

By County

For in-person assistance or to speak to a local case manager, contact your county’s Department of Health Department and Mental Hygiene.

Does Medicare Cover In-Home Care in Maryland?

In general, Medicare does not cover the cost of non-medical home care. That being said, there are situations in which Medicare provides some coverage for medical home care, referred to as “Home Healthcare.” There are several eligibility restrictions for coverage, including that individuals must be homebound and have a referral from their doctor specifically for home healthcare services.

Below is an overview of some of the skilled medical professionals whose in-home services are typically covered by Medicare – for more in-depth information, refer to our Guide to Home Healthcare.

  • Physical Therapists: Physical therapy is used to help patients recover from injuries (broken bones, knee injuries, etc.), treat ongoing conditions such as arthritis, and assist in recovery from surgeries and procedures such as a knee or hip replacement.
  • Visiting Nurses: Licensed nurses can provide a number of medical services for those who don’t need to stay in the hospital, but do need regular medical services such as wound care, changing feeding tubes, etc.
  • Occupational Therapists: Occupational therapists help seniors regain or maintain the ability to accomplish normal, daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing, eating, and other daily activities.
  • Speech Therapists: Speech therapists help seniors who are struggling to adequately communicate due to a stroke, dementia, or any other cause regain the ability to functionally communicate using a variety of means. Additionally, speech therapists help to keep seniors independent by modifying diets, teaching special techniques to swallow safely, and retraining associated muscles.

As mentioned above, in-home care is distinctly different from home healthcare. But, there can be some overlap in services between the two types of care. So, while Medicare doesn’t cover non-medical in-home care, there are in-home care services that may be covered in special circumstances when they’re provided in conjunction with home healthcare (such as an occupational therapist helping with eating or dressing)

Other Financial Assistance Options for In-Home Care in Maryland

While the above programs help many people finance in-home care, they will not cover all costs for everyone. There are other ways to pay for in-home care, including out-of-pocket arrangements with siblings, annuities, reverse mortgages, private insurance and more. Read Caring.com’s Guide to In-Home Care Costs to learn more about these alternative payment options.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Maryland

Seniors in Maryland can get help as well as free information and referrals through the following agencies and programs. Many additional resources are sponsored by the state government and local nonprofits.

Contact
Area Served
Services Provided

See Directory

Statewide

Maryland has 19 Area Agencies on Aging in Baltimore and most counties statewide. Communities on the Eastern Shore are served by one of two regional offices located on the peninsula. If you need in-home assistance or if you’re looking for ways to maintain your independence, your Area Agency on Aging can provide free information and advice, including help accessing government benefits.

(800) 243-3425

Statewide

This state agency is responsible for funding and overseeing all of Maryland’s age-related programs, including the state’s Area Agencies on Aging and its Long-Term Services and Community Supports Division. It funds nutritional programs, legal assistance hotlines, caregiver supports and the state’s long-term care ombudsman.

(410) 767-5900

Statewide

If you’re a Maryland homeowner and have a household income of less than $60,000 with no more than $200,000 in assets, you may qualify for a property tax credit through the Department of Assessments and Taxation. This program provides a tax credit that limits your property taxes to a fixed percentage of your income. Annual applications are due by April 15.

(301) 429-7409

Statewide

The Department of Housing and Community Development offers several home rehabilitation programs to help you get your property up-to-date. Accessible Homes for Seniors provides competitive financing, including grants and loans, to help seniors install ramps, step-in showers and other accessibility modifications. In most cases, loans don’t need to be repaid until the home is sold.

(855) 583-8976

Statewide

Lower energy bills could make it more affordable for you to remain in your own home if you depend on a fixed income. This program helps with the cost of energy-efficient home improvements, including insulation, lighting and heating and cooling upgrades. For a two-person household, the income limit is 60% of the state median income or $50,0921 per year.

(800) 332-6347

Statewide

The Office of Home Energy Programs operates several utility bill assistance funds if you’re struggling to pay your water or energy bills or are facing disconnection. You can apply online through the Department of Human Services, or you may request an Application for Energy Assistance by contacting the office.

(844) 627-5465

Statewide

Maryland Access Point is a statewide service network with offices serving each county. Its Senior Care Services program focuses on case management, personal needs screenings and the coordination of in-home personal care and other supports.

COVID-19 Rules for In-Home Care Providers in Maryland

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recently issued a memorandum requiring home health care workers and other medical providers to be vaccinated. This rule applies to all agencies that accept Medicaid or Medicare benefits. Maryland also has its own vaccination requirements. However, workers may opt to get tested in lieu of vaccination. Workers may also be able to request an exemption from these requirements.

For specific information, ask your home health agency about its policies for vaccinations, testing, masking and personal protective equipment. Your provider may be able to address your concerns or accommodate your requests. For updates on regulatory changes made after April 2022, contact your Area Agency on Aging.

In-Home Care Laws and Regulations in Maryland

Residential service agencies that provide nonmedical in-home care to seniors are licensed through the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Office of Health Care Quality. The OHCQ is also responsible for conducting scheduled and unannounced inspections of RSAs to ensure compliance with state regulations, and investigating complaints made against agencies. The following table offers an overview of the regulations under which Maryland RSAs operate.

In-Home Care Laws and Regulations in Maryland
Scope of Care
RSAs may provide a number of nonmedical in-home services to clients, including assistance with daily living activities and personal care. Noncertified staff may also provide medication reminders, perform light housekeeping duties, prepare meals, shop for groceries and accompany clients on errands and appointments.
Care Plan Requirements
An RN must assess the care needs of each client, and then help agency staff formulate a personalized care plan and assign appropriate personnel. This plan must detail a client's needs and short- and long-term care goals, the specific services the agency will provide and their frequency.
Medication Management Requirements
Noncertified RSA staff members who provide nonmedical in-home care may assist clients with self-administration of prescribed medications. Only licensed or certified staff may administer medications.
Staff Screening Requirements
Direct care workers must pass a criminal background check, TB screening and skills assessment.
Staff Training Requirements
Staff providing in-home care must receive training in personal care, how to identify changes in clients' physical condition, record keeping, infection control, CPR and abuse and neglect prevention.
Medicaid Coverage
Maryland Medicaid pays some or all in-home care costs for eligible seniors through its Community Personal Assistant Services and Community First Choice entitlement programs. Medicaid also covers home care services through the Increased Community Services and Community Options waivers.
Reporting Abuse
Suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation of a vulnerable Maryland senior may be reported anonymously by calling the state's Adult Protective Services abuse hotline at 800-917-7383.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Programs to Cover Home Modifications in Maryland?

Interest-free, 30-year deferred loans are available through the Maryland Accessible Homes for Seniors program to help address necessary modifications. Various Medicaid programs and waivers that cover in-home care also pay for essential accessibility and safety upgrades.

How Much Does In-Home Care Cost in Maryland?

According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey 2019, seniors in Maryland pay an average of $4,481 per month for in-home care. This is about $100 less than the monthly average for home health services, which include nursing care, and almost $200 above the national median.

Are There Transportation Assistance Programs in Maryland?

Maryland seniors can access various transportation assistance options depending on their location. To learn what’s available in their area, seniors should contact their local Area Agency on Aging or county transportation program.

What Are Activities of Daily Living ?

Activities of daily living are the actions related to self-care that an individual completes on a day-to-day basis. These routine activities include personal hygiene and grooming, bowel and bladder functions, dressing and undressing, eating and mobility.

What Types of Services Does a Home Care Aide Provide?

In Maryland, home care aides may provide various nonmedical services, including helping with personal care tasks, such as bathing or showering, dressing, grooming and eating. They may also offer medication reminders, prepare meals, perform light housekeeping chores and accompany seniors on errands and appointments.

Does Maryland Pay For In-home Care?

Maryland does pay for in-home care through the Community Personal Assistance Services program. This program provides care to individuals who are in need of assistance with tasks that are considered ‘activities of daily living.’ Other programs exist as well including the Community First Choice program, the Community Options Waiver and the Home and Community Based Services Waiver, each providing an opportunity for an individual to receive in-home care. Read More

Can Family Members Get Paid for Caregiving in Maryland?

Family members can’t get paid for caregiving in Maryland. However, the state offers several options for financial assistance for adult family members who provide in-home care for their parents, grandparents, or adults living with disabilities. While the eligibility requirements vary, there are some programs and waivers that offer support to family caregivers who live in Maryland. Read More

How to Find an In-Home Care Provider in Maryland

Whether you are looking for yourself or a loved one, finding a quality home care provider can be a stressful process. When you hire an in-home care aide you’re placing a lot of trust in the hands of the person by inviting them into your home, so you’ll want to be diligent in your search. At Caring.com, we’re here to help – we’ve created a helpful checklist below that can help guide you through the process of both determining your needs and finding a home care agency that will provide the best care possible.

Finding a Home Care Provider Checklist

Find Home Care Agencies Near You

To find quality home care providers near you, simply input the zip code or city where you would like to start your search. We have an extensive directory of home care agencies all across the nation that includes in-depth information about each provider and hundreds of thousands of reviews from seniors and their loved ones.

Directory of Home Care Services in Baltimore, MD

2022, 2024

Right at Home Forest Hill, MD

350 Granary Rd, Ste 1, Forest Hill, MD, 21050

The provider has helped me the most with being present when I needed help. I like the dependability.
The provider has helped me the most with being present when I needed help. I like the dependability.

TheKey – Bethesda

8757 Georgia Ave , #600, Silver Spring, MD, 20910

Using for home health aides. Incredibly responsive. Warm, caring aides. Very, very happy w agency
Using for home health aides. Incredibly responsive. Warm, caring aides. Very, very happy w agency

HomeCare.com

7925 Jones Branch Dr., Suite LL 140, Mclean, VA, 22102

We ended up choosing HomeCare.com and it worked well for me. They were cooking my meals, making my bed, doing some laundry, driving me to visit my husband in the hospital, and doing a little grocery s … (read more)
We ended up choosing HomeCare.com and it worked well for me. They were cooking my meals, making my bed, doing some laundry, driving me to visit my husband in the hospital, and doing a little grocery s … (read more)

2018, 2019

Home Instead – Pasadena

1511 Ritchie Hwy, Suite 301, Pasadena, MD, 21122

Have absolutely no expectations for quality of care. Do not trust Home Instead nor what is happening in your loved ones’ home. Get a camera because Home Instead has no method of accountability. Ho … (read more)
Have absolutely no expectations for quality of care. Do not trust Home Instead nor what is happening in your loved ones’ home. Get a camera because Home Instead has no method of accountability. Ho … (read more)

Home Instead – Howard County

3691 Park Ave, Suite 202, Ellicott City, MD, 21043

My wife has Alzheimer’s disease and she needs someone to be with her at all times. I am her sole 24/7 caregiver. For my health, I need to get respite from time to time. It is particularly important … (read more)
My wife has Alzheimer’s disease and she needs someone to be with her at all times. I am her sole 24/7 caregiver. For my health, I need to get respite from time to time. It is particularly important … (read more)

Right at Home Baltimore County, MD

3455 Wilkens Ave Suite 200, Baltimore, MD, 21229

I appreciate the excellent service that you all provided to me during my illness. Your company attention to detail great communication skills awesome smiles made the experience even better than I trul … (read more)
I appreciate the excellent service that you all provided to me during my illness. Your company attention to detail great communication skills awesome smiles made the experience even better than I trul … (read more)

Blessed Angels Home Healthcare Services

9470 Annapolis Rd, Suite 208, Mitchellville, MD, 20721

The care that Blessed Angels Home Healthcare Services provides for my mother is excellent. We have one caregiver who comes 7 days a week for 6-7 hours, and she has been wonderful. She helps prepare my … (read more)
The care that Blessed Angels Home Healthcare Services provides for my mother is excellent. We have one caregiver who comes 7 days a week for 6-7 hours, and she has been wonderful. She helps prepare my … (read more)

Home Instead – Towson, MD

8601 Lasalle Rd, Suite 100, Towson, MD, 21286

Home Instead provides companion care 3 days each week. The staff is consistently prompt and arrives on time- never been a problem. My interactions with the caregiver is one of mutual interest in the … (read more)
Home Instead provides companion care 3 days each week. The staff is consistently prompt and arrives on time- never been a problem. My interactions with the caregiver is one of mutual interest in the … (read more)

Interim HealthCare of Annapolis

1819 Bay Ridge Ave, Annapolis, MD, 21403

From short-term assistance after a hospital stay to long-term help with everyday tasks, and from highly specialized medical care to daily companionship, Interim HealthCare of Annapolis is here to help … (read more)
From short-term assistance after a hospital stay to long-term help with everyday tasks, and from highly specialized medical care to daily companionship, Interim HealthCare of Annapolis is here to help … (read more)

Capital City Nurses – Columbia, MD

10440 Little Patuxent Parkway Suite 300 , Columbia, MD, 21044

THE SMART CHOICE FOR HOME CARE For over 45 years, Capital City Nurses has been serving clients across DC, Maryland and Virginia by providing exceptional levels of care and support in the home. We hav … (read more)
THE SMART CHOICE FOR HOME CARE For over 45 years, Capital City Nurses has been serving clients across DC, Maryland and Virginia by providing exceptional levels of care and support in the home. We hav … (read more)

Safe Hands LLC

5850 Waterloo Rd, Columbia, MD, 21045

Life is in constant motion. And a satisfying life is a full one. However, sometimes things can take a turn that slows us down or even stops us in our tracks. That’s where SAFE Hands comes in. To car … (read more)
Life is in constant motion. And a satisfying life is a full one. However, sometimes things can take a turn that slows us down or even stops us in our tracks. That’s where SAFE Hands comes in. To car … (read more)

Home Helpers Home Care of NE Baltimore

101 N. Haven St., Suite 301, Office I , Baltimore, MD, 21224

Home Helpers® Home Care of NE Baltimore is a in-home care service that provides top quality in-home care. Our Cared-4℠ program is a holistic approach to meet the four primary areas of need, helping … (read more)
Home Helpers® Home Care of NE Baltimore is a in-home care service that provides top quality in-home care. Our Cared-4℠ program is a holistic approach to meet the four primary areas of need, helping … (read more)

Always Best Care of Parkville

8606 Harford Rd , Baltimore, MD, 21234

Since 1996, the compassionate caregivers from Always Best Care have helped thousands of families with non-medical in-home care needs. We provide free consultations and are dedicated to exceeding your … (read more)
Since 1996, the compassionate caregivers from Always Best Care have helped thousands of families with non-medical in-home care needs. We provide free consultations and are dedicated to exceeding your … (read more)

Reliable Assisted Living and Training, LLC

3703 Kings Point Rd , Baltimore, MD, 21133

We strive to provide care that is cost efficient and most importantly reliable!
We strive to provide care that is cost efficient and most importantly reliable!

Avila Home Care – Towson, Maryland

1122 Kenilworth Drive, Suite 217, Towson, MD, 21204

We could not have done it without them. One thing I liked about the agency is it was easy to work with everyone.
We could not have done it without them. One thing I liked about the agency is it was easy to work with everyone.

2022, 2023, 2024

Home Helpers Home Care of Northwest Baltimore

145 West Ostend Street, Suite #600, Baltimore, MD, 21230

They help my father with his needs. They do what they’re supposed to do, they show up.
They help my father with his needs. They do what they’re supposed to do, they show up.
Get Pricing See Details
2022, 2023, 2024

2018, 2019, 2020, 2021

2nd Family

1532 Liberty Road, Ste 105, Eldersburg, MD, 21784

Very nice caregivers. Easy to add and change shifts on family portal. Backups if someone cancels.
Very nice caregivers. Easy to add and change shifts on family portal. Backups if someone cancels.
Get Pricing See Details
2018, 2019, 2020, 2021

2024

Maryland Nursing Care

8115 Maple Lawn Blvd, Suite 350, Fulton, MD, 20759

Maryland Nursing Care has been wonderful to work with over the last few years. The care coordinator, Lola, is kind, caring, and very responsive. She always brightens the room with her wonderful smil … (read more)
Maryland Nursing Care has been wonderful to work with over the last few years. The care coordinator, Lola, is kind, caring, and very responsive. She always brightens the room with her wonderful smil … (read more)

Compassionate Healthcare Nursing Services

5411 Old Frederick Rd , Suite 6, Baltimore, MD, 21229

The provider has helped the most financially. The agency has done everything that was told to us that would be done. They have more or less done that with minimal intrusion and no follow ups needed … (read more)
The provider has helped the most financially. The agency has done everything that was told to us that would be done. They have more or less done that with minimal intrusion and no follow ups needed … (read more)

Caring Connection, Inc.

304 Vale Road,, Bel Air, MD, 21014

I used Caring Connection for my wife. They were too expensive and they were not dependable because when people didn’t show up, they didn’t have backups. As for their caregivers, some were good and som … (read more)
I used Caring Connection for my wife. They were too expensive and they were not dependable because when people didn’t show up, they didn’t have backups. As for their caregivers, some were good and som … (read more)

Home Care Services in Maryland (326)