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Assisted Living in Oregon
Oregon has over 4.2 million residents, including a large senior community that makes up nearly a fifth of the population. In the 2024 Senior Living Report, Oregon ranks 28th in the nation overall and is in the top 11 states for access to health care and quality of life. The Oregon Health and Science University Hospital, a 576-bed teaching hospital, is located in Portland, and St. Charles Medical Center is a high-performing facility in Bend. The state also has numerous long-term care facilities to meet the needs of older adults who need assistance throughout the day. According to most recent data, older adults in Oregon pay $5,045 per month for Assisted Living, which is a little higher than the national median but consistent with costs in surrounding states
This comprehensive guide provides information on Assisted Living across Oregon, as well as how this type of care compares in cost to other options within the state. It highlights Medicare and Medicaid programs within the state as well as funding options for Assisted Living services. It also features a resource table with statewide agencies and programs for seniors and breaks down Assisted Living regulations in Oregon.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Oregon
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 Oregon and its 35 cities.
According to the Genworth 2021 Cost of Care Survey, seniors in Oregon pay an average $5,045 per month for Assisted Living. While this is several hundred dollars higher than the national median of $4,500, the state is moderately priced compared to other options in the Pacific Northwest. In Washington, rates are nearly $1,000 higher at $6,000, while seniors in California pay $5,250 per month. Idaho and Nevada have considerably more affordable Assisted Living rates of $3,838 and $3,750, respectively.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Oregon's Top Cities
Care costs remain relatively consistent among many Oregon cities, but seniors should consider location before selecting a long-term care community. Costs are generally higher in cities and trend lower in rural areas. In Portland, the monthly average is $5,806, roughly on par with the $5,580 state average. Rates in Oregon City run abut $5,740 every month. Salem is the most cost-effective city for Oregon seniors with an average rate of $4,883.
Oregon
$$5,580
Portland
$$5,806
Salem
$$4,883
Eugene
$$4,998
Oregon City
$$5,740
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Oregon
Inflation had a widespread effect on the cost of assisted living from 2022 to 2023. Nationwide, the cost of care has risen an estimated 9.6%. In Oregon, the effects of inflation have been more drastic. The state has seen a 19.2% rise in the cost of assisted living, from $4,681 to $5,580 monthly.
The effects of inflation are drastic in neighboring states as well. Washington has seen a 14.1% increase in care costs, while Idaho's rates have risen 13.6%. In Nevada, the average rate for assisted living has risen a more modest 3.6%, while California's rates rose 6.9%.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $4,681 | $5,580 | $5,942 |
| U.S. Average | $4,070 | $4,459 | $4,802 |
| Washington | $4,156 | $4,743 | $5,051 |
| Idaho | $3,864 | $4,388 | $5,122 |
| Nevada | $3,586 | $3,716 | $3,957 |
| California | $4,625 | $4,946 | $5,221 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
When weighing their long-term care options in Oregon, seniors will find the most affordable rates in independent living, which averages $2,731 monthly. Costs rise as more daily support is required and additional services/amenities are added, so families should always keep these considerations in mind. Assisted living costs an estimated $5,580 monthly, while memory care is the most costly option in Oregon with a monthly average rate of $7,501.
Assisted Living
$$5,580
Memory Care
$$7,501
Independent Living
$$2,731
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Oregon?
Qualifying Assisted Living residents in Oregon may pay for assisted living through the state’s Medicaid program. Assisted Living services are covered directly through the K Plan, also called the Community First Choice State Plan Option, as well as indirectly through the Aged and Physically Disabled waiver. These programs pay for Assisted Living services and home-based care to help older adults maintain their independence and avoid or delay Nursing Home care.
Medicaid, including the K Plan option, is an entitlement, and everyone who qualifies for enrollment is guaranteed coverage. Limited enrollment slots are available for the APD waiver, meaning that some people who qualify for services are placed on waitlists until a slot opens. Individuals who qualify for both programs may be enrolled in them simultaneously.
What Assisted Living Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Oregon?
Oregon’s Medicaid program covers a range of Assisted Living services. The coverage seniors receive depends on whether they’re enrolled in the K Plan or the APD waiver.
K Plan Coverage
Under the K Plan, all members receive case management and have individualized service plans that determine what services are covered. These services may include:
- Adult Day Care
- Attendant Care, including personal care and Homemaker services
- Assistive technology
- Chore services
- Community transportation
- Durable medical equipment
- Environmental modifications
- Memory Care services
- Respite Transition services to help individuals move from Nursing Home care to Assisted Living
Aged and Physically Disabled Waiver
Under the APD waiver, individuals access a more limited range of services. The purpose of this waiver is to help individuals move out of a skilled nursing facility and back into their home or a community setting. Because it has more generous income and asset allowances than the regular Medicaid program, it may benefit those not eligible for full Medicaid coverage.
Assisted Living Waiver Programs in Oregon
Aged and Physically Disabled Waiver
The APD waiver is a Home and Community-Based Services waiver that helps seniors in nursing homes transition back to their home or a community setting, such as an Assisted Living facility. Covered services include:
- Case management
- Housing support services, including help with finding housing and completing applications
- Transition services to move from an institutional setting to assisted living
The APD waiver may cover transition-related expenses such as security deposits, basic furnishings and setting up utilities. However, it doesn’t cover monthly room-and-board expenses.
To be eligible for the APD waiver, applicants must be at least 65 years old or have a physical disability, and they must live in a nursing home but wish to return to their home or a community setting. They must also meet financial criteria. A single applicant can have a monthly income of up to $2,523 and up to $2,000 in assets.
To apply for the APD waiver, individuals can call the Oregon Health Plan Customer Service hotline at (800) 699-9075 and request a paper application. They can also apply online here.
How To Know If You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Oregon
To qualify for Medicaid in Oregon, you must meet financial eligibility criteria. Single applicants may have a monthly pretax income of up to $2,742. Income is calculated including Social Security Disability Insurance, Social Security Income, retirement savings and pension benefits. Married applicants may have a joint monthly income of up to $5,484. If only one spouse is applying, only the applicant’s income counts, and it may be up to $2,742 monthly.
Applicants must also meet asset limits. Single applicants may have up to $2,000 in countable assets, and married applicants may have up to $4,000. Countable assets include stocks, bonds, investments, bank accounts and owned property the individual doesn’t occupy. Applicants whose income and assets exceed these guidelines may still qualify for Medicaid through options such as spousal asset transfers, irrevocable funeral trusts and spend-down programs.
| 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 | 4,000 |
*Depending on the facility setting, a recipient may not be able to keep income up to this level.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
In addition to income and asset limits, applicants must be at least 65 years old, legal U.S. citizens or residents and permanent Oregon residents.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Oregon
Seniors can apply for Medicaid online by visiting ONE.Oregon.gov, or they must fill out and submit a paper application to:
OHP Customer Service
P.O. Box 14015
Salem OR, 97309
Individuals can call OHP Customer Service at (800) 699-9075 for help with applying for Medicaid and Medicaid waiver programs.
Information You Will Need
Before applying for Medicaid, individuals should have the following information on hand:
- Proof of age
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of state residency
- Proof of income and assets
- Social Security Number
- Policy for current health insurance coverage, including TRICARE and Medicare
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Several government and nonprofit agencies advocate and support those applying for Medicaid. Through these resources, seniors can get help with the application process, find out more about Medicaid coverage for Assisted Living and file appeals for denied services.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Health Authority Ombudsman Program | (877) 642-0450 | The Oregon Health Authority Ombudsman Program supports Medicaid beneficiaries by advocating on their behalf to ensure they have high access to health care. Individuals can contact the ombudsman if they have questions about their coverage, need help finding a provider or have a complaint regarding denied claims or canceled coverage. |
| Oregon Health Plan Customer Service | (800) 699-9075 | The OHP Customer Service hotline provides free information and assistance with applying for Medicaid. Through this service, seniors can learn more about Medicaid benefits and the application process. |
| Oregon Health PlanCare Coordination | (800) 562-4620 | Seniors can call OHP Care Coordination for nurse advice and help with finding health care providers. The website also publishes information regarding the legislation that affects benefits and fields beneficiary feedback through member satisfaction surveys. |
Does Medicare Cover Assisted Living in Oregon?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted living in Oregon. 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 Oregon.
Paying for Assisted Living Facilities in Oregon
While many families use their own funds or personal assets to pay for assisted living, there are plenty of additional options to cover these costs. Our How to Pay for Assisted Living page includes more information.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Assisted Living in Oregon
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 | How To Apply | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Oregon
There are many resources in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Area Agencies on Aging | Area Agencies on Aging in Oregon provide services for older adults that help them stay independent. With 16 agencies supporting older adults, seniors have access to assistance for community-based, home-based and caregiver support. These services include short-term nursing, personal care, such as help with personal grooming needs, home meal delivery and nonemergency medical transportation. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Lifeline | 800-848-4442 | 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 Oregon seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Meals on Wheels | Oregon Meals on Wheels operates independently-run food assistance programs throughout the state. To be eligible, seniors must be aged 60 or over or unable to shop for and prepare their own meals. These nutritious and balanced food choices are served in a congregate setting or delivered to seniors' doors with safety checks to monitor their well-being. Meals are available on a sliding-fee scale and may be free, depending on individual circumstances. Some locations offer meals that meet ethnic and cultural preferences. | |
| Oregon Food Bank | 800-777-7427 | For those facing hunger, Oregon Food Bank aims to provide access to food across the state by creating food banks and helping to eliminate the root causes of food shortages. The organization lists food banks throughout Oregon, where seniors can pick up food essentials on a regular basis. In addition, it runs a Meals on Wheels service for seniors who are unable to leave their homes or prepare meals for themselves. |
| Oregon Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 503-945-5600 | Oregon's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, operated by the Department of Human Services, offers a monthly benefit to help reduce the cost of healthy food. Seniors in the program receive Electronic Benefits Transfer cards that are reloaded with funds each month. SNAP participants can use their EBT cards at grocery stores and farmers' markets to buy food. Eligibility is restricted to Oregon residents with incomes below $29,160 for individuals. This figure increases for larger households. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Prescription Drug Program | 800-913-4284 | The Oregon Prescription Drug Program transitioned to the ArrayRx Discount Card Program on January 1, 2022. Anyone previously enrolled must re-enroll with ArrayRx.However, it's still state-sponsored and authorized by the Oregon Health Authority. The program can save participants up to 80% on generic drugs and 20% on name-brand prescriptions at most pharmacies. |
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 Oregon have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Section 504 Home Repair Program | 866-923-5626 | Seniors may apply for a home repair grant yearly through their local RD office. If they qualify, they receive a grant that they must use to make home repairs to remove health and safety hazards. Applicants may only receive a total of $10,000 in housing repair grants during their lifetime. |
| OregonCommunity Builders Program | 503-501-5719 | REACH Community Development is dedicated to helping older adults and disabled individuals age safely in their homes by providing free home repairs. A licensed, bonded and insured general contractor handles home repair projects of qualifying applicants. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Law Center (OLC) | Oregon Law Center is a statewide organization that can provide legal advice and information to seniors and low-income residents in all 36 counties in the state. OLC's volunteer attorneys assist with civil cases involving landlord-tenant disputes, government housing, financial exploitation and Social Security benefits, among others. | |
| Oregon Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | 800-522-2602 | Oregon's Long-Term Care Ombudsman program is dedicated to ensuring that seniors in assisted living facilities receive quality care. Residents or their family members can contact the program's office with concerns about the care being received in a facility. The ombudsman then investigates the issue and works as an advocate for the resident to get it resolved. Seniors and their caregivers can also contact the ombudsman to schedule a free consultation about their long-term care options in the McMinnville area. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Catholic Charities | 503-231-4866 | This nonprofit provides a variety of specialized senior services, including case management and care placement. Mental health counseling services and financial wellness education is available here, as are opportunities for volunteering and community engagement. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Alzheimer's Disease and Aging | 503-494-7772 | The center consists of a significant number of researchers whose aim is to seek new ways to prevent, cure or improve care for cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer's. People with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia can benefit from the expert knowledge of experienced neurologists working at the OSHU Brain Institute, including the renowned doctor and scientist Doctor Jeffrey Kaye, M.D. A team of specialists meets daily to assess cases, and patients with Alzheimer's and dementia may be eligible to participate in clinical trials that are conducted occasionally. In addition, there's also a wide range of support services for patients and families. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon 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 Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Senior and Disabled Property Tax Deferral Program | 800-356-4222 | Senior and disabled homeowners can borrow from the State of Oregon to pay their county property taxes through the Oregon Property Tax Deferral for Disabled and Senior Citizens program. If qualified, the Oregon Department of Revenue pays the homeowner's taxes on November 15 each year and places a lien on the home. |
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. Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP) | 800-453-5111 | OEAP is a low-income electric bill payment assistance program for low-income customers of Pacific Power and Portland General Electric. The goal is to reduce service disconnections for vulnerable customers. The program prioritizes customers in danger of having their service disconnected. |
Veteran's Services
Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon VA Benefits and Health Care | Oregon VA Benefits and Health Care connects qualified senior veterans to the services they earned through their time in the military. This may include health care coverage, income and long-term care help, depending on the veteran's unique needs and time spent in the service. The VA Medical Center is located in Portland, and the VA has clinics and satellite offices throughout the state. |
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Oregon
Assisted Living facilities (ALFs) in Oregon comply with regulations set by the Department of Human Services. These regulations set a minimum standard of care to ensure a high quality of life for Assisted Living residents statewide.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Assisted Living Service Plan Requirements | To determine a resident’s service plan, the facility must conduct an evaluation within the first 30 days of residency. This evaluation includes: interests, hobbies and leisure activities, current health assessment and medications, mental health condition, amount of substance use, and sensory preferences. The service plan must outline the services provided and by whom, where, and how often. It must be reviewed quarterly or whenever the resident’s needs change. |
| Assisted Living Admission Requirements | Before a new resident moves in, the facility must ensure that it can adequately meet their needs. It must conduct an initial screening to determine their service needs, preferences, strengths and relationships. AL facilities can impose an involuntary discharge for putting others at risk, urgent medical or psychiatric needs, use of illegal substances, and/or inability to evacuate in an emergency. |
| Assisted Living Scope of Care | At a minimum, assisted living facilities in Oregon provide three nutritious meals daily, and snacks. There should be laundry service, Social and recreational programming, assistance with daily living activities, and nursing services. Facilities must also arrange for transportation services for medical and recreational outings, and it must contract with third parties for ancillary services such as barber and beauty services, therapy and hospice. |
| Assisted Living Medicaid Policy | The state of Oregon does not provide funding for assisted living facilities. Medicaid waivers are available to help low-income individuals pay for medical costs and case management but room and board is not a covered item. Oregon’s Medicaid program covers some Assisted Living services under the K Plan, which pays for attendant care in any setting, including Adult Foster Care, Independent Living or Assisted Living communities. |
| Assisted Living Facility Requirements | Assisted Living facilities have to comply with local building regulations. All indoor pathways and floors must be in good repair and supportive for wheelchairs and mobility aids. Resident units may be limited to a bedroom with up to two residents, and there must be a minimum of 80 square feet per resident. Centralized bathrooms are permitted. If bathroom facilities are shared, there must be one available for every 10 residents with at least one accessible tub or shower. |
| Medication Management Regulations | ALFs must have safe medication and treatment administration systems approved by a licensed nurse, pharmacist, or physician. Facilities must maintain medication records for each resident. Residents who self-administer must be evaluated upon move-in and quarterly after. Direct-care staff members may administer medication if observed and evaluated. Only a physician or other legally recognized practitioner can make changes to residents' medication regimens. |
| Staffing Requirements | Facilities must have full-time administrators, as well as caregivers and universal workers. Additional duties, like housekeeping and laundry, are completed by universal workers. Each assisted living community must have a licensed nurse on staff or available as a consultant. There are no minimum staff-to-resident ratios set but the community must have enough staff to ensure there are enough qualified employees to maintain awake schedules 24 hours a day. |
| Staff Training Requirements | All employees must complete orientation within 30 days of their hire date. This must cover residents’ rights, reporting abuse, infection control, food safety, and emergency procedures. Caregivers must complete 12 hours of on-the-job training. All staff members must be certified first aiders, and CPR certification is recommended. Administrators must complete 20 hours of continuing education every year. |
| Background Checks for Assisted Living | All staff members are subject to criminal background checks, which must be conducted every two years and submitted to the Department of Human Services and Aging. Disqualifying crimes include criminally negligent homicide, assault, human trafficking, sexual misconduct, theft or burglary, animal abuse and illicit drug possession. |
| Requirements for Reporting Abuse | All employees are required to immediately report abuse to the local department office, the local Area Agency on Aging and to the facility administrator. If the abuse is believed to be a crime, local law enforcement must be contacted first. Residents, visitors and family members can report abuse to the Department of Human Services by calling the toll-free number at (855) 503-7233. |
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