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Assisted Living in Colorado
Colorado has much to offer seniors in assisted living. There are plenty of natural wonders and cultural destinations to explore, along with volunteer programs for seniors who want to help their community. Approximately 14.6% of the total Colorado population is age 65 and over, and that number is expected to rise. By 2030, it’s estimated that seniors 65 and over will comprise approximately 18.3% of the total Colorado population. Many may choose to make the move to assisted living at some point. In Colorado, the average cost for assisted living is $4,750 per month. Older adults can take advantage of the substantial tax deduction on retirement income in Colorado, which means more money to pay for assisted living care.
Seniors will be happy to know that there are highly rated hospitals in the state: The UC Health University of Colorado Hospital is ranked one of the nation’s best. In addition, Colorado is also home to SCL Health — a health care organization that provides specialized senior services. SCL Health has multiple locations, such as the senior emergency room at Lutheran Medical Center.
This guide contains and compares cost information for residential assisted living communities in Colorado. There’s information about financial assistance to help pay for assisted living and details regarding facility regulations. Also in this guide are free resources for seniors that include state offices and nonprofit organizations.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Colorado
When trying to decide how to pay for assisted living, one of the first questions that comes up is "How much does it cost?" With the impact of inflation, it's more important than ever to have up-to-date information when making a financial plan for senior living. To help shed light on real senior living prices, Caring.com has compiled proprietary cost data from its network of over 75,000 senior living providers to offer insight into the average cost of assisted living in Colorado and its 23 cities.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Colorado's Top Cities
Cities throughout Colorado offer different costs for assisted living. Denver has one of the lowest rates in the state at $3,620 per month, while Colorado Springs carries a higher rate of $5,142. Seniors in Boulder pay about $5,349, and those in Grand Junction can access care for a more affordable rate of $4,332
Colorado
$4,630
Denver
$3,620
Colorado Springs
$5,142
Boulder
$5,349
Grand Junction
$4,332
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Colorado
Assisted living prices in Colorado are continuously influenced by inflation. The state experienced a 5.4% increase from 2022 to 2023, with prices rising from $4,392 to $4,630. Meanwhile, the United States saw a higher increase of 9.5%, bringing monthly costs to $4,459. Inflation has also raised prices in neighboring states. In Wyoming, prices increased by 26.7%, while Nebraska experienced a 12.5% increase. Utah's costs rose by 11.8%, and New Mexico saw a 20.5% jump in assisted living rates
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | $4,392 | $4,630 | $5,063 |
| U.S. Average | $4,070 | $4,459 | $4,802 |
| Wyoming | $3,944 | $5,000 | $5,325 |
| Nebraska | $4,480 | $5,043 | $5,304 |
| Utah | $3,690 | $4,129 | $4,200 |
| New Mexico | $3,465 | $4,185 | $4,752 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Care type can also affect costs, depending on the level of care and amenities offered. Assisted living in Colorado is $4,630 per month, while memory care costs more at $5,958 due to its specialized services. Independent living offers a more affordable price of $2,802.
Assisted Living
$4,630
Memory Care
$5,958
Independent Living
$2,802
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Colorado?
Health First Colorado is the state’s Medicaid program, and it does cover the cost of certified assisted living communities called Alternative Care Facilities (ACFs) for seniors enrolled in the Elderly, Blind and Disabled Waiver (EBD) or the Community Mental Health Supports Waiver (CMHS). ACFs assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) in a residential setting with 24-hour supervision.
What Assisted Living Services are Covered by Medicaid in Colorado?
Colorado Medicaid covers certain costs of Alternative Care Facilities (ACFs), which provide an array of services for seniors in a supervised residential setting. Care is based on each resident’s needs and level of independence. Services include:
- Bathing and dressing assistance
- Mobility assistance
- Housekeeping
- Medication management
- Transportation
The EBD Waiver provides seniors with all Health First Colorado services. In addition, the waiver provides senior-specific services that include personal care, transition services for seniors moving from their home to an ACF, and peer mentorship. Long-term hospital and nursing facility costs are not covered. Seniors must pay their room and board costs, and they may also have to share in certain care costs and services. The CMHS Waiver covers many of the same services. Like the EBD Waiver, long-term hospital and nursing facility care are excluded from coverage.
Assisted Living Waiver Programs in Colorado
Elderly, Blind, and Disabled Waiver (EBD)
In order to qualify for the EBD Waiver, seniors must receive Colorado Health First Benefits. Age, income, disability and citizenship status factor into eligibility. Income caps are as follows:
- Income must be less than 300% of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) limits
- Single seniors cannot have more than $2,000 in resources
- Couples cannot have more than $3,000 in resources
Through the Medicaid Buy-In Program for Working Adults with Disabilities, seniors may still qualify for the EBD Waiver.
Services covered under this waiver include but aren’t limited to:
- Transportation
- Personal care
- Medication assistance
- Housekeeping
In addition, EBD recipients receive all Health First Colorado services other than long-term nursing facility or hospital care. Some of these services include:
- Primary physician visits
- Specialist visits
- Emergency room visits
- Ambulance visits
- Dental care
To sign up for the EBD Waiver, seniors must be enrolled in Colorado Health First and contact their respective Single Entry Point (SEP) or Member Contact Center. Applications for Colorado Health First can be completed online, by mail, in person or by phone at (800) 221-3943.
Community Mental Health Supports Waiver (CMHS)
Seniors must meet eligibility and level-of-care requirements to qualify for the CMHS Waiver. Applicants must have a mental health condition that interferes with their ability to perform activities of daily living. Developmental and intellectual disorders are not applicable, nor is substance abuse disorder without an additional mental disorder present.
Applicants must require long-term care that’s comparable to nursing facility services and meet the same financial requirements as for the EBD Waiver, which are as follows:
- Income must not exceed 300% of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) limits
- Single seniors must not have resources exceeding $2,000
- Couples must not have resources exceeding $3,000
Seniors with income in excess of these amounts may still qualify for the CMHS Waiver through the Colorado Medicaid Buy-In Program.
The CMHS Waiver adds to Colorado Health First Services such as doctor visits, specialist visits, emergency room visits and dental care. In addition, the following are added:
- Adult day services
- Nutritional services
- Homemaking services
- Life skills training
- Mentorship services
- Personal care
To enroll in the CMHS Waiver, seniors must already be enrolled in Health First. If not enrolled in Health First, individuals can complete applications online, by mail, in person or by phone.
Seniors enrolled in Health First who want to also enroll in the CMHS Waiver can contact their applicable Member Contact Center or Single Entry Point (SEP) to apply.
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Colorado
Health First Colorado is the state’s Medicaid program operated under the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing. Colorado Medicaid has eligibility requirements including age, disability status, citizenship, income and resources. General requirements state the seniors must:
- Be aged 65 or older
- Be disabled and/or blind
- Not exceed income and resource limits
- Be a citizen of the United States or a legal alien
- Have a gross yearly income that does not exceed $32,904 for singles and $65,808 for couples.
- Have no more than $2,000 in resources, and $3,000 for couples.
2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Colorado
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $32,904 | $2,000 | |
| Two Person | 1 | $32,904* | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two Person | 2 | $65,808 | $3,000 |
*Income limit is for applicant only.
As noted, income requirements for additional programs, such as the EBD and CMHS Waivers, are based on SSI benefits. For both programs, household income cannot exceed 300% of 2023 Supplemental Security Income (SSI) limits for household size. For singles, that’s $10,970 and for couples, the SSI income limit is $16,453.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Colorado
Applications for Colorado Medicaid can be submitted online through the PEAK website. Seniors can also download and print a paper application, which can be mailed or submitted at an application assistance site or county Medicaid office. Applications can also be taken to these locations between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
Seniors can also apply by phone by calling state relay 711 or (800) 221-3943.
Information You Will Need
In order to apply for Colorado Health First, seniors must submit appropriate verifications. Required documents include:
- Social Security cards for citizens
- Immigration documentation for noncitizens
- Identification showing name, address and birthdate
- Contact information
- Documentation of all household income
- Health insurance policy documentation (including Medicare) for household members
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
There is help available for Colorado residents who need assistance applying for Medicaid. Seniors can contact local government offices as shown in the table below to get help with their application. In addition, local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) can provide assistance with benefit applications for Medicaid and waiver programs.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Department of Human Services | (303) 866-5700 | Through the Colorado Department of Human Services, seniors can get help applying for Colorado Medicaid. On the DHS website, there’s a clickable map that directs visitors to the appropriate county office and its contact information. |
| Colorado PEAK | (800) 221-3943 | Seniors can apply for Medicaid through the Colorado PEAK website, and there’s plenty of helpful online information. Live chat is available to assist with the application process, or applicants can receive assistance by phone during normal business hours. |
| Colorado Division of Aging and Adult Services | (303) 866-2800 | This state division can refer seniors to their local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). Through this division or their local AAA, seniors can receive help with Medicaid applications and other issues related to assisted living. |
Does Medicare Cover Assisted Living in Colorado?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted living in Colorado. Assisted living facilities are considered to be a “residential setting” and not a “clinical setting,” (think nursing homes). While Medicare doesn’t cover the cost of care received in an assisted living community, it does still cover things like approved medications, doctor visits, medical equipment, etc., just like it would if you lived at home.
For more information about when Medicare can be used to pay for senior living in a nursing home, and for Medicare-related resources, see our guide to Nursing Homes in Colorado.
Paying for Assisted Living Facilities in Colorado
The Old Age Pension Program delivers financial aid to low-income seniors who are 60 years of age or older to help them attain a minimum monthly income. The cash benefit that this program pays out varies based on a senior's current income and what the minimum level of accepted income is for a given year. This program may also provide dental and health care benefits to seniors who don't qualify for Medicaid.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be at least 60 years of age
- A citizen or legal alien of the United States and a resident of Colorado.
- Have up to $2,000 in countable resources and a monthly income of up to 788.
The length of the applicant's state residency is not a factor; even those who have recently moved to Colorado may be eligible for this program.
To learn more about eligibility requirements, seniors can visit their local Social Security office.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Assisted Living in Colorado
Seniors who are not eligible (due to location, financial situation, or other factors) for other types of financial assistance, do still have some options. See the table below for an overview of some of the most common ways to make Assisted Living affordable.
| Name | HowToApply | HowItWorks |
|---|---|---|
| Aid and Attendance | Learn more and apply online at va.gov. | Veterans who receive a VA pension may also be eligible for the Aid and Attendance benefit, a monthly cash allowance that veterans receive in addition to their standard pension amount. The benefit is intended for veterans in need of long-term care services and may be used towards paying for Assisted Living. |
| Reverse Mortgages | Learn more about your options and how to apply at ftc.gov | If you own a home, you may be able to use a reverse mortgage to help pay for Assisted Living. Reverse mortgages are loans that one can take out against the value of their home, essentially converting some of the home's equity into cash. Reverse mortgage loans do need to be repaid with interest, typically within 12 months of receiving the loan. |
| Long-Term Care (LTC) Insurance | Learn more about Long-Term Care Insurance and how to apply for a policy at acl.gov. | Seniors who already have long-term care insurance may be able to use it to pay for Assisted Living. Most policies cover at least a portion of the cost, but it depends on the specific policy terms. Note that older adults who are already in need of Assisted Living will not typically be eligible to sign up for a LTC insurance policy. |
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Colorado
There are many resources in Colorado that assist seniors in their retirement. Caring.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs and agencies and categorized them into care types for easy reference.
Area Agency on Aging
Retirees can find support and advice on various senior-related issues from their local Area Agency on Aging. The agency provides advice on topics such as financial assistance programs, in-home care and long-term care planning. It also connects seniors and caregivers with community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Area Agencies on Aging | The Area Agencies on Aging in Colorado provide information on local resources and programs for older adults throughout the state. The aim of the agencies is to help seniors remain as independent as possible while receiving the assistance they need to live purposeful lives. Services provided by the AAAs include case management, transportation and health screenings. AAAs offer multiple programs depending on the specific needs of individuals, including adult day programs and congregate and home-delivered meals. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Colorado provide financial support to help low-income retirees remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Seniors and caregivers can apply for tax rebates and reductions, discounts on vital services and help covering the cost of heating and cooling their home.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Lifeline Program | 800-234-9473 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
| Colorado Old Age Pension | The Old Age Pension is a financial assistance program that pays beneficiaries up to $771 per month. You can use these funds to pay for any senior living or senior care services you may need. If you qualify for the Old Age Pension, you may also be eligible for the Health Care Program, which provides medical coverage for some seniors who do not qualify for Medicaid. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Colorado seniors can find financial assistance from numerous local resources. These organizations help residents cover some of the costs associated with in-home or long-term care and connect them with other helpful community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Program of All-Inclusive Care For the Elderly (PACE) | The Program of All-Inclusive Care For the Elderly is a managed Medicaid program that provides health care at designated facilities, but it also covers some care services seniors can get at home. These include skilled nursing, personal care, transportation and physical and occupational therapies. A PACE home care coordinator can arrange for the delivery of support services you need. The program pays for all services that are covered under Medicare and Colorado's Medicaid plan. |
Food Assistance Programs
Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help Colorado seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Meals on Wheels | Colorado Meals on Wheels provides home-delivered meals to homebound seniors aged 60 and older throughout the state. The organization doesn't charge for the meals but asks seniors to contribute what they can afford when possible. Volunteers deliver hot, nutritious meals low in cholesterol and fat to promote a healthy lifestyle, and they visit briefly to ensure the individual is safe. The program also offers nutrition education services for interested seniors, helping them learn about a well-balanced diet. | |
| Colorado Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 855-855-4626 | Colorado Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides funds for seniors to use to buy food. SNAP provides electronic benefit transfer cards that receive monthly funds that low-income seniors can use to purchase food. To apply, seniors need proof of their income status and family size. Colorado SNAP serves the entire state. |
| Colorado Volunteers of America Meals on Wheels | 720-501-3367 | Meals on Wheels is a national organization that's delivered thousands of meals to seniors in Colorado who are unable to prepare or obtain their own food. In addition to serving the nutritional needs of countless older adults in the state, volunteers provide a valuable service by checking in on the health and well-being of isolated seniors. |
| Colorado Works (TANF) | 855-855-4626 | Colorado Works operates as the state's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. It helps low-income seniors with energy bills and heating and cooling repairs. It also includes the Old Age Pension program, which provides financial assistance and help with health care costs. Income and residency requirements apply. Benefits can last up to 60 months. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Colorado collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Hospital Equipment Lending Program | 720-598-6126 | The Assistance League of Denver loans wheelchairs, bath benches, walkers and other medical equipment to those in need at no cost to the borrower. You are expected to return all equipment once you're finished using it. |
| Colorado South Metro Medical Equipment Closet | 720-443-2013 | This equipment closet provides short-term loans of medical equipment to adults recovering from an injury, injury or illness. The max term of a loan is 3 months. |
| Colorado Summit County Senior Services - DME Loan Closet | 970-668-2952 | The program loans out walkers, crutches, wheelchairs commodes and other durable medical equipment on a short-term basis. The loan closet is located within the Community & Senior Center. |
| Colorado Tri-Lakes Care Loan Closet | 719-481-4864 | The Tri-Lakes Care Neighborhood Nurse Center loans out walkers, canes, non-powered wheelchairs, crutches and toilet seat risers at no cost to the borrower. All loaned equipment is donated by members of the community. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Colorado seniors who meet certain income criteria can apply to local resources to help them pay for prescription drugs. Eligible residents can also receive assistance through health insurance and other programs to access free or discounted medical services.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Old Age Pension Health and Medical Care Program | 800-221-3943 | The Medical Care Program provides limited health care services for older adults who do not qualify for a Health First Colorado plan. It includes inpatient and outpatient hospital services, home health care, surgical dental services, durable medical equipment and medical transportation. The Old Age Pension also pays for limited pharmaceuticals. This program is known by a few different names: Modified Medical Plan, State Medical Program and the OAP State Only Program. |
Home Repair and Modifications
Seniors and those with disabilities can access a variety of local resources to help them pay for home repairs and modifications. Programs in Colorado have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Brothers Redevelopment | 303-202-6340 | This non-profit organization assists seniors by helping them to apply federal and social benefits. They can also help with financial planning, reverse mortgages and creating living wills. Additionally, members of the group volunteer to help seniors with housework, yard work, home repairs and running errands. All of these services are aimed at helping seniors to successfully age in place. There is no charge for the services. |
| Colorado Weatherization Assistance Program | Your local weatherization provider can help you save money on your heating and cooling bills by providing free energy conservation solutions. Experts will perform an energy audit at your property and then recommend services at no cost, including infiltration sealing, furnace repair, LED light installation, solar energy and air source heat pumps. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Colorado seniors. Older adults can access advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills and power of attorney. Some firms also act as long-term care ombudsmen, advocating for the rights of seniors in senior living communities.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Legal Assistance for Older Adults | Seniors can receive legal services through this department, which protects seniors' rights and ensures they understand those rights. Advocacy and access to representation is also available. | |
| Colorado Legal Services | Colorado Legal Services (CLS) offers free legal assistance to seniors aged 60 and older if they meet certain income, asset and legal problem requirements. CLS may take on cases that align with the firm's priorities regardless of income, if the financial and staffing resources are available. Example cases include family law, consumer debt, tax litigation and problems with SSI disbursement or other government benefits. Online, phone and walk-in applications are welcome. | |
| Colorado Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | 719-471-2096 | The Colorado Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program assists seniors living in long-term care communities such as assisted living facilities. They serve as advocates who regularly visit residents and investigate any complaints and claims of abuse, neglect or inadequate care. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Colorado bring together residents through recreational activities and events. Many also offer advice and support on senior issues, run wellness and nutrition programs, and connect older adults with other resources in the local area.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado 2-1-1 | 866-760-6489 | Call 2-1-1 to access many senior services. Long-term care services and information are available through this service, along with many other disability and aging resources. The website can also help direct seniors and caregivers to the right resources for their needs. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Colorado help older adults remain active and ensure they contribute to the community. Resources include wellness programs, volunteer opportunities, support groups and organizations that help residents connect with the community to live fulfilling lives.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Association Colorado Chapter | The Alzheimer's Association advocates for memory care recipients and their families. In addition, this association raises funds for research and raises awareness of Alzheimer's disease. Through the Colorado chapter, seniors can receive local services, resources and referrals. | |
| Colorado Benefits in Action | 888-496-4252 | Benefits in Action is a nonprofit organization designed to provide health insurance navigation. A counselor from the program will spend time with seniors and their caregivers, explaining the various state health care insurance plans and helping seniors to find the best option for their particular situation. Counselors can assist seniors in applying for health care insurance and any benefits they're eligible for. Additionally, the counselors can explain financial assistance options available for seniors needing to make the move to nursing home care. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Colorado help seniors and disabled people access the benefits they're entitled to. Older adults can contact their local office for information about receiving retirement benefits, disability allowance and Supplemental Security Income.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Social Security | Social Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working. |
Tax Assistance
Seniors can apply for tax assistance from several Colorado resources. Elderly residents and those with disabilities could be eligible for tax exemptions on medical expenses, reductions on property tax and other tax assistance programs.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Senior Property Tax Exemption | 303-660-7450 | This tax savings program exempts up to $100,000 of your home's value from your exemption will be %50 or property taxes. |
Veteran's Services
Colorado retirees who have served in the U.S. military can find support from local veteran services. These offices and organizations help vets access the benefits they're eligible for and provide advice and information on a variety of issues.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado VA Benefits and Health Care | Colorado's VA Benefits and Health Care ensures seniors who've served in the nation's military have access to the essential programs and services they are entitled to. Veterans who qualify receive health care, counseling, education, job opportunities and housing placement. The agency also helps seniors obtain compensation and benefits and offers access to military records. Families of veterans may receive assistance with burial and survivor benefits. |
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Colorado
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment regulates all assisted living facilities in the state. All assisted living residences must comply with the regulations set forth by this department to remain in operation. Both scheduled and unscheduled checks are performed to verify facility compliance.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Assisted Living Service Plan Requirements | Prior to resident admission, Colorado assisted living residences must perform a stringent evaluation of every potential resident’s care needs. This includes their level of independence and types of care needed. Evaluations also factor in the social, cultural and religious needs of each resident before admission. This evaluation helps determine whether the facility in question can meet the potential resident’s care needs. |
| Assisted Living Admission Requirements | Certain admission requirements must be met, including a signed resident agreement. Residents must not require 24-hour medical care or have unmanageable illnesses, incontinence, stage 3 or 4 pressure sores or any of the other excluding criteria in section 11 of the Code of Colorado Regulations document. |
| Assisted Living Scope of Care | Assisted living residences help residents with activities of daily living (ADLs). Toileting, bathing and dressing are three examples; housekeeping and transportation are two more types of care provided. |
| Assisted Living Medicaid Policy | Colorado’s Health First program covers costs associated with certified assisted living communities. Activities of daily living are covered, but seniors must cover room and board and may have to contribute to other costs. Waivers such as the Elderly, Blind and Disabled Waiver can be implemented to assist with assisted living costs not covered by Health First. |
| Assisted Living Facility Requirements | There are a number of facility requirements Colorado assisted living residences must meet. Exterior areas must be well-maintained and stairs lit after dark. There can be no more than two residents per room for facilities licensed after July 1, 1986. Facilities must have a minimum of one full bathroom per six residents. Full bathrooms must contain a toilet, sink, shower, mirror and toiletry storage area. Tubs and showers must be equipped with grab bars. |
| Medication Management Regulations | Assisted living residences can only allow authorized nurses, practitioners, certified nurse medication aides (CNA-Meds) or a qualified medication administration person (QMAP) to administer resident medications. Residents must be capable of consenting and taking medication in order for CNA-Meds or QMAP professionals to provide medication assistance. |
| Staffing Requirements | Colorado assisted living facilities must have at least one staff member on-site at all times who is currently CPR-certified. Between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., staff must conduct a resident safety check. Staffing levels must be sufficient enough to respond to routine and emergency resident needs. |
| Staff Training Requirements | Colorado ALRs are required to have a policy and procedure for all staff. Information on responding to altercations and missing residents must be included. Staff training includes information on the facility, where residents are allowed and restricted, the mobility ability of each resident, the location of the storage area and its contents. Security devices and override procedures are also covered through staff training. Each staff member is trained on care provisions for each resident, and staff training must be recorded. |
| Background Checks for Assisted Living | Assisted living residences must conduct a criminal background check if it is determined or indicated that a staff member, administrator or volunteer could risk the well-being, safety and/or health of facility residents. Pre-employment background checks are not legally required but can be performed as part of the hiring process if desired by the facility administrator. |
| Requirements for Reporting Abuse | If resident abuse is suspected or confirmed, it must be reported to the facility administrator and the local Department of Social Services within 24 hours of the allegation. |
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