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Assisted Living in Nevada
Known for its vast desert landscapes, snow-capped mountains and world-renowned gaming and entertainment, Nevada offers budget-conscious seniors a number of affordable retirement options. Of Nevada’s 3,143,991 residents, 16.1%, or over half a million, are seniors aged 65 and older.
The average cost of assisted living care in the state is just $3,750, but despite the low cost of long-term care, Nevada ranked 50th overall on The 2024 Senior Living Report. Nevada’s low score is based on a number of factors, including the above-average crime rate, traffic congestion in urban areas and the fact that the state has only 57 physicians per 100,000 residents, 20 fewer than the nationwide average. Fortunately, assisted living facilities have around-the-clock staff and high-tech security systems to keep residents safe, and most senior living communities are located well away from the crowded streets of Nevada’s bustling cities.
This guide provides an overview of assisted living in Nevada. There’s information on long-term care costs and a summary of financial aid programs designed to help low and moderate-income seniors who need assisted living care. Also included is a list of free resources for older adults and a plain-language guide to Nevada’s assisted living rules and regulations.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Nevada
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.
According to Genworth’s 2021 Cost of Care Survey, Nevada’s average monthly assisted living rate is $3,750, which is $750 below the nationwide average. Median rates are much higher in neighboring California, where assisted living care costs an average of $5,250 per month. Just south of Nevada in Arizona, the same type of care costs around $4,000 per month, while in Utah, the median assisted living care rate is $3,500. Northwest of Nevada, fees are significantly higher in Oregon, where assisted living residents pay an average of $5,045 per month.
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Nevada
Thankfully, inflation is not having a noticeable impact on the cost of assisted living in Nevada. It rose just 3.6% from 2022 to 2023, rising from $3,586 to $3,716. This is lower than the U.S. average, which experienced a 5% increase in 2023 when it reached an average rate of $4,459 per month.
In neighboring states, inflation's effects have been more visible. In Utah, for instance, costs rose by a drastic 11.9% from 2022 to 2023, while Oregon experienced an astounding increase of 19.2%. Care costs rose 10.2% in Arizona, and California saw a 6.9% annual increase.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nevada | $3,586 | $3,716 | $3,957 |
| U.S. Average | $4,070 | $4,459 | $4,802 |
| California | $4,625 | $4,946 | $5,221 |
| Utah | $3,690 | $4,129 | $4,200 |
| Arizona | $4,008 | $4,420 | $4,962 |
| Oregon | $4,681 | $5,580 | $5,942 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Senior living costs in Nevada vary widely by care type. Independent living is the most affordable option, with a monthly average of $2,463. Assisted living averages $3,716, and memory care is the most expensive choice, with an average rate of $4,474 every month. Numerous factors contribute to the total cost, including amenities, programming, meals and level of assistance; seniors should always consider how much support they need combined with potential costs.
Assisted Living
$3,716
Memory Care
$4,474
Independent Living
$2,463
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Nevada?
Nevada’s Medicaid program does not cover room and board costs for beneficiaries who need assisted living care, but enhanced personal support services for eligible assisted living residents are available through two Medicaid Waivers: the Assisted Living (AL) Waiver and the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver for the Frail Elderly (FE).
What Assisted Living Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Nevada?
Nevada Medicaid beneficiaries may be eligible for Medicaid-funded services that are delivered in an assisted living facility. These services are assigned on an as-needed basis, and may include:
- Professional case management
- Adult day care
- A medical alert system
- Augmented personal care delivered within an assisted living facility
Assisted Living Waiver Programs in Nevada
Assisted Living (AL) Waiver
The Assisted Living (AL) Waiver is a nursing home diversion program designed to help eligible seniors remain as independent as possible while avoiding placement in an institutional setting such as a skilled nursing facility. Services that may be funded through this program include:
- Case management through a state-licensed social worker
- Enhanced personal care services, including help with bathing, toileting, feeding, ambulating and grooming
Home and Community Based Services Waiver for the Frail Elderly
Nevada seniors who are at risk of institutionalization and who can be supported in an assisted living facility with enhanced supports may be eligible for enrollment in the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver for the Frail Elderly (FE). This Waiver program covers a number of services that are assigned on an individual basis, such as:
- Professional case management
- Placement in an adult day care program for at least 4 hours daily, one or more times per week
- Non-medical care, supervision and socialization on a one-on-one basis
- A wearable medical alert device
- Augmented personal care provided within an assisted living facility
To qualify for either AL Waiver or the HCBS FE Waivers, applicants must be at least 65 years old, be at risk of placement in a nursing home and meet current income limits.
To apply for AL Waiver or HCBS FE Waiver services, seniors or their representative must:
- Contact the nearest Aging and Disability Services Division (ADSD) office at (702) 486-6930 (Las Vegas/Clark County) or (888) 729-0571 (all other areas) to make a referral.
- Meet with a social worker to review eligibility and complete a comprehensive needs assessment.
- Once the individual is approved for enrolment in either waiver, they’ll remain in contact with the social worker to monitor service delivery.
How To Know If You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Nevada
Eligibility for Medicaid is determined either through the Social Security Administration or the Nevada Division of Health Care Financing and Policy. Seniors who qualify for Supplemental Security Income benefits automatically qualify for Medicaid enrolment.
Medicaid applicants need to be:
- Aged 65 or older, or
- Be blind or have a qualifying permanent disability, and
- Meet income and asset limits
As of 2023, the gross income limit for single applicants is $32,904 and $,65,808 for couples where both are applying. The asset limit for an individual is $2,000, and it’s $3,000 for couples. In the case of a one spouse applying for coverage, the non-applicant spouse has a much higher asset limit of $148,620 as stipulated in the Spousal Impoverishment Act.
| 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 People | 1 | $32,904** | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two People | 2 | $65,808*** | $3,000 |
*Depending on the facility setting, a recipient may not be able to keep income up to this level.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
***Income is limited to $2,742 per month per spouse.
How To Apply for Medicaid in Nevada
Seniors can apply for Medicaid through the Access Nevada website or by calling 1-800-992-0900.
Information You Will Need
Before applying for Medicaid, individuals need to have the following documentation on hand:
- Proof of age
- Proof of citizenship and permanent residency in Nevada
- Verification of all income, including wages, investment dividends, state and federal benefits and rental income
- Verification of all assets held either solely by or jointly with one or more other individuals
- Social Security number
- The cash value of any insurance policies held by the applicant
- Copies of any burial or prepaid funeral contracts held by the applicant
How To Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Nevada seniors who need help applying for Medicaid can take advantage of numerous services; some are described below.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Access Nevada | (800) 992-0900 | Access Nevada is the state portal for all public benefits, including Medicaid. Seniors can call Access Nevada for information on Medicaid eligibility, coverage and assistance with the application process. |
| Nevada 211 | 2-1-1 or (866) 535-5654 | Operated by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services, Nevada 211 is a statewide program that helps residents connect with local health, human and social service agencies and programs. Seniors can call 2-1-1 from anywhere in Nevada to learn about local health insurance counseling services. |
| Nevada Legal Services | (702) 386-0404 or (866) 432-0404 | Nevada Legal Services is a statewide nonprofit legal services organization that offers free information and support to low and moderate-income seniors. Staff at NLS can help seniors apply for Medicaid and assist those who require guardianship services. |
Does Medicare Cover Assisted Living in Nevada?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted living in Nevada. 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 Nevada.
Paying for Assisted Living Facilities in Nevada
The Home and Community Based Waiver, or HCBW, is a program from the Nevada Aging and Disability Services Division that offers non-medical assistance to elderly Nevadans hoping to retain their independence. Their services can be used to augment personal care in a licensed residential community and include help with chores, daily living activities and medication oversight.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a minimum of 65 years of age
- At risk of being placed in a nursing home
- Meet certain financial criteria
To learn more about eligibility requirements, eligible seniors or their caregivers must contact the nearest regional office of the Aging and Disability Services Division. A social worker then evaluates the applicant's needs, determines eligibility and makes a recommendation regarding benefits.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Assisted Living in Nevada
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 Nevada
There are many resources in Nevada 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Nevada Area Agencies on Aging | The Department of Health and Human Services Aging and Disability Services Division is based in Carson City and assists seniors throughout Nevada. Adult Protective Services falls under this division, as does the Nevada State Long Term Care Ombudsman program. The Office of Community Living offers waivers to seniors for in-home services, such as personal care assistance, a homemaker, an adult companion, transportation and personal emergency response systems. Caregivers can also find relief with respite care and adult day care centers. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Nevada 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Nevada 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. |
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 Nevada seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Nevada Meals on Wheels | Nevada Meals on Wheels is an umbrella organization that partners with food pantries to deliver hot, healthy meals to homebound seniors throughout the state. While Nevada MOW is not a direct provider of food, it maintains a national database that helps seniors find the program closest to them. Many MOW partners also provide congregate meal sites where seniors can enjoy a meal while socializing with their peers. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Nevada 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Nevada Assistive Technology Resource Center (NATRC) | 800-216-7988 | The NATRC offers low and high-tech assistive technology to Nevada seniors in need. It loans the devices at no cost for two weeks, although participants can use multiple loans to extend this time if the device is not needed elsewhere. |
| Nevada CARE Chest | Care Chest provides medical equipment and supplies to northern Nevada residents who demonstrate financial need. It loans devices for as long as participants need them and can sometimes deliver them to the participant's home. The program also has a walk-in facility that can provide equipment on the spot with proof of identity, residence and income. |
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 Nevada have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Nevada Home Modifications – RAMP | 702-648-3425 | Nevada Senior Services runs the RAMP program, which provides subsidized home modifications necessary for seniors to maintain the accessibility needed for independent living. The program seeks funding to help cover the costs for selected modifications. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Nevada 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Nevada 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 Nevada 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Nevada Blind Exemption | Seniors who are legally blind can apply for the Blind Exemption. The assessed value for this exemption starts at $4,380 but goes as high as $7,300 if combined with the Veteran's Exemption or the Surviving Spouse Exemption. This exemption requires a new application every year. | |
| Nevada Surviving Spouse Exemption | Widowed seniors may qualify for the Surviving Spouse Exemption, which offers an assessed value of $1,460. They must file an exemption each year to apply. | |
| Nevada Veteran's Exemption | Seniors who have served in the military could qualify for the Veteran's Exemption and receive a property tax reduction based on their home's assessed value. The assessed value reduction starts at $2,920 but can increase to $29,200 if there are additional factors such as disability and blindness. They must submit a new application each year. |
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
Low-income seniors who are struggling to meet the costs of maintaining their homes can find support from organizations that offer assistance with utility and energy bills. Nevada retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Nevada Energy Assistance Program | The Nevada Energy Assistance Program assists eligible state seniors with financial help for energy costs. Its calendar year runs from July 1 to June 30, but interested individuals can apply anytime. Only one payment is permitted for each qualifying household during a calendar year, and seniors must fall within a specific income range to be eligible. Applicants are required to submit requested details and supporting documentation, including proof of residency and the amount of cash assistance needed. |
Veteran's Services
Nevada 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Nevada VA Benefits and Health Care | Seniors who are qualified veterans can receive services from the Nevada VA Benefits and Health Care office. This state-wide program provides a wide range of benefits to veterans, including medical care services, supplemental income and the potential for long-term care services. Nevada's VA Medical Centers are in Reno and Las Vegas. |
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Nevada
Assisted living facilities in Nevada are licensed by the Department of Health and Human Services in accordance with state laws and regulations. These regulations help to ensure facilities are safe for vulnerable seniors and that care is provided in a way that meets or exceeds residents’ needs.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| A Written Service Plan | Upon acceptance into an ALF, new residents must be assessed and assigned either a Care Category 1 (ambulatory) or Care Category 2 (non-ambulatory) designation. Communities admitting non-ambulatory residents must adhere to an additional set of fire and life safety guidelines. The administrator is in charge of scheduling and maintaining accurate health assessments. All services are arranged to complement a resident's abilities and provide extra care when needed. |
| Assisted Living Admission Requirements | ALFs either accept only Care Category 1 residents (ambulatory) or Care Category 1 and 2 (non-ambulatory) residents. Residents cannot require 24/7 medical supervision unless in hospice or if granted an exemption. They also cannot have unmanageable incontinence or need complex care such as catheterization or supplemental oxygen unless it's self-controlled or they have ongoing supervision. ALFs can retain those with short-term conditions expected to recover within 14 days. |
| Assisted Living Scope of Care | ALFs provide snacks and three daily meals served in communal dining rooms that follow national guidelines and accommodate religious beliefs, medical needs, and personal tastes. Meals cannot be served privately more than 14 days in a row. ALFs with more than 10 residents must consult with a registered dietician quarterly. Personal and medical care, 10 hours of weekly activities, and laundry facilities are required. An administrator must oversee and update policies as needed. |
| Assisted Living Medicaid Policy | Nevada’s Medicaid program Assisted Living Waiver covers supportive services in an ALF. State subsidized waiver programs also include a mandatory personal needs allowance that ensures communities leave Medicaid-eligible residents enough money for basic needs after room and board charges. There is an additional supplement for residents who are blind or aged and reside in a community that services less than 16 residents. |
| Assisted Living Facility Requirements | Assisted living facilities must provide three meals daily. Accommodations may consist of either private or shared rooms, and no more than two residents can be housed in a single room. All rooms must include ensuite toilet facilities. |
| Medication Management Regulations | Residents can self-administer prescription and over-the-counter medications. Unlicensed staff and administrators can administer oral medications upon passing a 16-hour medication course with an approved instructor followed by 8 hours of annual continuing education. Injections can be self-administered or administered by a medical professional or trained LPN, but not by a nurse. Insulin can be self-injected or given by a nurse with a pre-filled pen or syringe only. |
| Staffing Requirements | There are no minimum staffing ratios but staff must provide sufficient care so that residents can function independently. Facilities with 20 or more residents must have at least one caregiver on duty and awake at all times and a second must be available within 10 minutes, ALFs need a licensed administrator and a activity coordinator and this must be a full-time emloyee in facilities with 50 or more residents. Volunteers may be used to supplement, but not replace, paid staff. |
| Staff Training Requirements | ALFs must be managed by an administrator licensed by the Nevada State Board of Examiners. Within 30 days of employment, administrators and caregivers need to complete a first aid and CPR course with certification kept on file on-site. Some RNs and LPNs may not have to complete first-aid training. Within 60 days of hiring, caregivers must complete at least 4 hours of inservice training related to resident care, followed by at least 8 hours of continuing education annually. |
| Background Checks for Assisted Living | Assisted living employees must successfully pass a criminal background check with fingerprints conducted in-state by the Department of Public Safety or the FBI within 10 days of hire. Anyone found to have prior convictions related to the abuse, neglect, care or exploitation of vulnerable persons is excluded from employment in an assisted living facility. |
| Requirements for Reporting Abuse | Anyone who believes a senior is being abused or exploited is obligated to report their concerns by calling Adult Protective Services. In Las Vegas and Clark County, the local reporting number is (702) 486-6930. Callers from all other areas of the state may call (888) 729-0571. In addition, complaints against specific assisted living residences may be filed online through the APS Online Intake Report. |
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