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Assisted Living in Texas
Famous for long hot summers, ranching and diverse attractions, Texas is a popular destination for retirees. With around 12.9% of the 29 million-plus population over the age of 65, Texas is home to more than 3.5 million seniors. The number of seniors is continually increasing, with estimates that will exceed a 20% increase by 2030. Texas boasts several high-performing hospitals for geriatric care, including UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas and Houston Methodist Hospital.
In our 2024 Senior Living Report, Texas ranks 45th in the country. The overall score is likely negatively impacted by relatively low scores in the health care and community involvement categories. However, transportation is good and there’s no state income tax, which may help seniors stretch retirement funds further. On average, assisted living care costs $3,998 per month. At more than $500 per month lower than the national average, Texas is an appealing retirement destination for low-income seniors.
This guide on assisted living in Texas includes costs of residential care and various funding options that may help seniors cover their care costs. The guide provides information about regulations for assisted living communities as well as details about local agencies that offer information, advice, advocacy and support for older citizens.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Texas
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 Texas and its 135 cities.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Texas's Top Cities
Care costs can vary greatly across Texas. While Austin's average of $3,218 is similar to the state median ($3,312) and costs in Dallas are only slightly higher ($3,389), many cities can be more expensive. In Houston, for example, assisted living costs $3,877 per month, which is $565 more than the state average. Alternatively, there are less expensive options, such as San Antonio, where average rates are $3,066.
Texas
$3,312
Dallas
$3,389
Austin
$3,218
Houston
$3,877
San Antonio
$3,066
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Texas
In Texas, inflation has affected many aspects of life, including the cost of senior care. Between 2022 and 2023, assisted living costs rose by over 5.6%, jumping from $3,134 to $3,312. However, Texans are fortunate as this is less than the 9.3% increase seen on a national level. Inflation has impacted states differently. In Oklahoma, assisted living costs have risen by 19.4%, while rates in New Mexico have seen a spike of over 20%. Arkansas, on the other hand, observed a decrease of about 3% in assisted living costs, though rates are expected to rise in 2024.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $3,134 | $3,312 | $3,481 |
| U.S. Average | $4,070 | $4,459 | $4,802 |
| New Mexico | $3,465 | $4,185 | $4,752 |
| Oklahoma | $3,173 | $3,789 | $4,035 |
| Arkansas | $3,960 | $3,840 | $4,439 |
| Louisiana | $3,473 | $3,903 | $3,913 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Costs can also vary greatly between different types of senior living. While assisted living costs $3,312 per month, memory care sees higher rates at an average of $3,763. Independent living is less expensive than both at $2,472. These variations are based on a variety of factors, including the level of assistance provided, the amenities available and if any specialized services, such as dementia care, are required. A senior's individual needs and preferences should always be considered to ensure the type of care selected is best suited to them.
Assisted Living
$3,312
Memory Care
$3,763
Independent Living
$2,472
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Texas?
While Medicaid does not directly cover assisted living care in Texas, seniors who are eligible for Medicaid may obtain assistance via the STAR+PLUS waiver. Services are provided by managed care organizations (MCO) and allows Medicaid support through an individually chosen health plan. This waiver replaced the previous Community Based Alternatives (CBA) waiver. The STAR+PLUS waiver covers a variety of long-term services, both medical and non-medical, for seniors who are classified as needing nursing home level care. The waiver allows for services to be provided in a person’s home, in adult foster care or within a residential facility, such as an assisted living community.
What Assisted Living Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Texas?
While the STAR+PLUS waiver does not cover the costs of room or board, it may allow seniors to offset costs through the provision of other services for qualifying people who reside in assisted living communities. The managed care program can include assistance with activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living, health care and assistance with medication.
Assisted Living Waiver Programs in Texas
STAR+PLUS waiver
The STAR+PLUS waiver replaced the Community Based Alternatives (CBA) waiver in 2014. The program has managed health care plans provided by managed care organizations (MCOs). Seniors can choose their plan provider from specific MCOs in each county. Some eligible individuals may be put on a waiting list to receive services.
All providers must offer basic services, with coverage dependent on specific needs. Different plans also offer a range of extra enhanced services and coverage.
Core services include:
- Assisted living services
- Speech, physical, occupational and cognitive rehabilitation therapies
- Personal assistance services
- Skilled, specialized or intermittent nursing
- Medication management
- Dental services
- Medical supplies
- Adaptive aids
- Transition assistance
- Emergency response systems
For people to be eligible for the STAR+PLUS waiver, they must be either over the age of 65 or be an adult with a disability. They must also meet financial criteria and satisfy medical requirements, in that they would otherwise require nursing home level care in the absence of assistance. An assessment is necessary to determine medical needs.
To enroll in the program, seniors must first sign up for Medicaid. This can be done online through Your Texas Benefits. Alternatively, seniors can print or request a form to complete and return or apply over the telephone. A further application pack will be posted to people who are eligible to apply for the STAR+PLUS waiver. Applicants should choose their preferred health care provider within 15 days. If no choice is made, a provider will be automatically selected. After enrollment in the STAR+PLUS program, a coordinator will visit the applicant and create a tailored service plan.
How To Know If You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Texas
Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) administers Medicaid throughout the state.
Medicaid eligibility for Texans depends on an individual’s income and assets. Income is based on yearly household income levels before taxes. For single applicants, the maximum annual income is $32,904. For couples, where both people are applying for Medicaid, the maximum household income per annum is $65,808.
Assets include bank savings, trusts, stocks, shares, bonds and additional real estate after a person’s primary home. Individuals have an asset limit of $2,000, and the limit increases to $3,000 for couples where each person claims Medicaid. For couples with only one Medicaid applicant, the non-applicant spouse has an enhanced asset limit of $148,620.
2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Texas
| 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 | $148,680*** |
| Two Person | 2 | $65,808 | $2,000 |
*Depending on the facility setting, a recipient may not be able to keep income up to this level.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
***The $148,620 number is the maximum amount a non-applicanat spouse can keep. The limit may be less depending on the total dollar amount of current assets.
In Texas, eligibility for Medicaid for long-term care is also dependent on other factors. Additional criteria include citizenship, age and disability. in Texas is also reliant on other criteria being met. These include age, citizenship and disability status. Texan Medicaid applicants must:
- Be a full-time Texas resident
- Be 65 or older, have a qualifying disability or be legally blind
- Be a U.S. citizen or U.S. national, have permanent residency status or hold legal alien status
How To Apply for Medicaid in Texas
The Your Texas Benefits website provides a quick and convenient way for people to apply for Medicaid in Texas. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the system allows applicants to save partially completed applicants and return later, upload additional documentation and check the ongoing status of existing claims.
Seniors who prefer to complete a paper application form can either download a form or request a form through the post. This can then be returned via mail or handed in at a Texas Health and Human Services benefits office or community partner. Telephone applications and inquiries are also possible through the toll-free Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership Texas Medicaid hotline on (800) 925-9126.
What Information You Will Need
Applicants must also provide supporting evidence and documents with Medicaid claims in Texas. You’ll need proof of identification, such as an ID card or driver’s license, proof of residency in Texas, such as a rental agreement or recent utility bill, and proof of all incomes, including all pensions and benefits.
Applicants must also provide:
- Social Security number
- Proof of citizenship or residency status
- Up-to-date bank statements for all accounts
- Information about all active insurance plans
- Details of any assets, including shocks, shares and bonds
- Information about housing status, such as proof of homeownership, mortgage agreements or rental agreements
- Details of any loans or gifts
- Papers related to military service (where applicable)
- Proof of recent medical bills and expenses
How To Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Texas seniors who need help filling in Medicaid forms and making claims have various options for assistance. Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership and Texas Health and Human Services have professional advisors who can offer assistance and information. Seniors can get online information from Your Texas Benefits. Statewide, Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) have trained staff who can provide advice and assistance related to Medicaid, and local senior centers may hold benefits workshops.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership | (800) 925-9126 | Trained advisers assist over the telephone with Medicaid applications between 7 am and 7 pm on weekdays |
| Texas Health Information Counseling and Advocacy Program | (800) 252-3439 | Staff members assist with understanding health benefits and comparing health insurance policies |
| Texas Health and Human Services | (855) 937-2372 | Professional advisers offer diverse advice, including benefit entitlements and application assistance |
| Your Texas Benefits | Online | The website contains in-depth information about all benefits, including Medicaid, and individuals can easily check eligibility with the prescreening tool |
Does Medicare Cover Assisted Living in Texas?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted living in Texas. 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 Texas.
Paying for Assisted Living Facilities in Texas
The STAR+PLUS waiver is a statewide Texas program that offers a variety of assistance services to keep seniors in their homes or assisted living communities. Financial assistance is provided to lower the cost to Medicaid by reducing the use of nursing homes. STAR+PLUS services are provided through managed care organizations (MCO), and waivers are limited, so there is the possibility of being wait-listed.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be 65 years or older
- Require a nursing facility level of care
- Fall below the monthly income limit of $2,250 and asset limit of $2,000 for individuals.
To learn more about eligibility requirements, applications for the STAR+PLUS waiver must be submitted online.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Assisted Living in Texas
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 Texas
There are many resources in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Area Agencies on Aging | In Texas, seniors aged 60 and older can access a variety of supportive services through the state's 28 Area Agencies on Aging. These agencies can help with issues including benefits counseling, caregiver education and support and legal counseling, and they can connect seniors to their local Ombudsman program. AAAs can also assist seniors with more practical care concerns, connecting them with local resources, such as meal and nutrition programs, transportation services and respite and in-home care services. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Lifeline Program | 512-936-7000 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
| Texas Fleetwood Memorial Foundation | 817-877-0702 | If you're a retired Texas police officer or firefighter who was injured in the line of duty, you can get a grant to cover the costs of mobility equipment. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Health and Human Services | 855-937-2372 | Texas HHS provides a range of services to older Texans who require long-term assistance. HHS staff can connect seniors with personal care, medical assistance, transportation and other services. Some programs are available to anyone 60 and older, while others have eligibility requirements based on income or need. |
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 Texas seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Meals on Wheels | Texas Meals on Wheels is part of the national network of Meals on Wheels providers. MOW is not a direct provider of food but can help Texas seniors find free food pantries through its online search database. Many pantries and food distribution points that partner with Meals on Wheels offer delivery services for homebound seniors; these services often include a welfare check. Congregate meal sites are usually available for seniors interested in a social dining experience. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Ramp Project | 214-558-0339 | Your primary care provider or social worker can apply for medical equipment from the Texas Ramp Project on your behalf. The team builds a free wheelchair ramp so you can leave and reenter your property at your leisure |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas BenefitsCheckUp | 800-252-3439 | Texas BenefitsCheckUp allows seniors in the state to find benefits available within their zip code, including forms of assistance that cover medications, nutrition, home energy and disability services. Seniors using the service can gain information about long-term care, social security income and taxes, helping them plan their retirement and budget for future expenses. The website may also provide contact information for elder abuse or crisis hotlines operating in the designated area. |
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 Texas have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Section 504 Home Repair Program | 254-742-9700 | Seniors in rural Texas can access combined funding of $50,000 in grants and loans from the USDA Single Family Housing Repair fund. You can use loans to modernize, repair or improve your home or remove hazards to health and safety, while grants are exclusively for removing health and safety hazards. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman - Alvin, TX | 800-252-2412 | The Long Term Care Ombudsman office represents the interests and care of those in long-term care communities. Agents of this organization can help seniors and their families find the right fit for senior living, helping them determine what level of service fits best and making recommendations for different communities based on the amenities of each. Other services the Ombudsman Office include investigating complaints filed by residents of these communities, or by family members of residents who cannot advocate for themselves. |
| Texas Legal Services Center | 512-477-6000 | Low-income citizens, including seniors with limited means, can obtain free legal advice from Texas Legal Services Center. Areas of law include elder, consumer, pensions and benefits. |
| Legal Hotline for Texans | 800-622-2520 | The Legal Hotline for Texans is operated by the Texas Legal Services Center. It operates statewide, providing free civil legal information and assistance to seniors who are at least 60. Topics include long-term care, public benefits, Medicare, consumer rights, guardianship, powers of attorney and advance directives. The hotline is staffed during business hours on weekdays. |
| Texas Legal Services Center | 800-443-2528 | The Texas Legal Services Center is a nonprofit organization that serves those aged 60 and over throughout the state. Seniors can contact the center to get assistance with applying for public benefits or veterans' benefits or for help with pension recovery and end-of-life or loss-of-health planning. |
| Texas Office of the Independent Ombudsman for State Supported Living Centers | 877-323-6466 | The Office of the Independent Ombudsman for State Supported Living Centers protects the rights of long-term care residents across the state, including individuals who need memory care. Staff advocate for residents and their families, investigate complaints, monitor compliance and provide free information about quality and regulations related to long-term care. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Association Texas Chapter | 800-272-3900 | The Alzheimer's Association is a nationwide organization that helps fund Alzheimer's research and provides services and supports to those affected by the disease. It operates six chapters in Texas, including the Capital of Texas Chapter, the Dallas and Northeast Texas Chapter, the Houston and Southeast Texas Chapter, the North Central Texas Chapter, the San Antonio and South Texas Chapter and the West Texas Chapter. Through their local chapter, individuals can participate in support groups, become involved in community awareness and education programs, receive care consultations and access online tools to help find support groups and health care services. For information regarding eligibility for various programs, individuals should contact their local chapter or call 800-272-3900. |
| Texas 2-1-1 | Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 2-1-1 Texas operates a free hotline and website to easily connect Texans, including seniors, with a range of services and provide accurate information from local and statewide health and human services departments and programs. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Texas 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 Texas | 800-367-2132 | Alzheimer's Texas is a nonprofit organization that provides referrals, information and support programs for Texans with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Its services include consultations, educational classes, early-stage support, caregiver support groups and community respite development. Its community-based respite care program provides three to four hours of free care per week for participants, and its early-stage engagement program enables seniors to enjoy fun activities and social events. To learn about eligibility requirements, individuals should contact the 24/7 helpline at (512) 241-0420 or (800) 367-2132. |
| Texas Alzheimer's Disease Program | 888-963-7111 | The Alzheimer's Disease Program is a state-funded initiative that provides information and resources to those living with the disease and their family, friends and caregivers. Through this program, individuals can learn more about Alzheimer's disease, including warning signs and the next steps to take if a loved one has symptoms. It also provides a way for individuals to connect to the MedicAlert + Alzheimer's Association Safe Return emergency response service, which can help locate those who wander away or have a medical emergency, along with a variety of resources for caregivers. All resources are available in English and Spanish and are available to everyone. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas 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 Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Property Tax Exemptions | 888-334-4112 | The Homestead exemption, School District Property Tax Freeze and Senior Property Tax Deferral are available. Homestead reduces property value by at least $25,000, with an additional $13,000 deduction for seniors. SDP tax freeze prevents tax increases after age 65. Property taxes can be deferred until your estate is settled after death. |
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. Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) | 877-399-8939 | The CEAP program provides financial assistance for low-income Texans to help them cover the costs of heating and cooling their homes. You can use the program to cover a maximum of eight utility bills per year. |
Veteran's Services
Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas VA Benefits and Health Care | Texas' VA Benefits and Health Care services are available at facilities throughout the state, including medical centers in Bonham, Dallas, Houston, Kerrville and Waco and outpatient locations in several outlying areas. In addition, community-based sites and Regional Benefits Offices are available to provide social services for qualified senior veterans ages 65 and older or those with service-related disabilities. Programs available include Aid and Attendance, an increase in monthly pensions to assist with daily living activities or skilled nursing costs. | |
| TexVet | 800-273-8255 | Funded by Texas Health and Human Services, TexVet is a valuable resource for anyone who served in the U.S. military. Seniors can obtain advice and resources related to areas including veteran benefits, housing, mental health and transportation. |
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Texas
Assisted living communities in Texas must adhere to strict regulations and rules set by Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HSSC). These regulations set out minimum requirements regarding staffing, care and amenities to ensure high standards of senior care.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Licensing Types | There are two licensing types in Texas for assisted living communities: A and B. The license types are largely based on a resident’s physical and mental ability to evacuate the premises in an emergency situation. Residents must be appropriate for the license type when admitted. If a resident’s situation later changes and is not in accordance with the license, the community is not obliged to retain them |
| Assisted Living Admission Requirements | Every assisted living community is required to assess each resident within 14 days of admission and fill-out an individualized service plan (ISP). The assessment must be performed by qualified staff, and the findings recorded. Each resident's ISP should outline care requirements, likes and dislikes, and strengths, to help the resident maintain a healthy degree of function. A community cannot admit anyone whose physical and mental needs cannot be met by the facility. |
| Assisted Living Facility Requirements | Assisted living facilities in Texas are not required to offer private rooms. No more than 50 percent of all beds in a facility can be in two-people rooms. Rooms can house up to four residents. One toilet and one sink must be available for every six residents, with one shower or bathtub available for up to 10 residents. |
| Assisted Living Medicaid Policy | Texas’s Medicaid program covers assisted living services under the STAR+PLUS waiver. Assisted living facilities must have a contract with a resident’s managed care organization (MCO). If an assisted living community offers services that could be covered by Medicare, it's the community's responsibility to inform the residents. Families may supplement for additional amenities which are not included in the room and board rate. |
| Assisted Living Scope of Care | Assisted living facilities provide housing, meals, and supervision of the physical and mental wellbeing of residents. Facilities should provide either medication administration, personal care, including activities of daily living, or both. Communities must offer at least one activity or social program per week. A facility may offer temporary skilled nursing services for no longer than 30 days. |
| Background Checks for Assisted Living | Assisted living facilities in Texas require background checks for prospective employees. A person is ineligible for hire if they have a disqualifying conviction. |
| Medication Management Regulations | Only licensed members of staff can administer medication to residents. For residents who can administer their own medications, monthly checks are required to ensure they are still able to self-administer. Staff members can supervise self-administration of medication, including providing reminders that medication is due, opening and closing containers, measuring the correct amount of medication according to a prescription, and returning medications to safe storage. |
| Requirements for Reporting Abuse | Under Texas law, everybody has a responsibility to report suspected or actual elder abuse or neglect. Reports concerning abuse in assisted living facilities can be made to the Texas Department of State Health Services by calling (800) 458-9858. Alternatively, anyone can call the 24/7 Texas Abuse Hotline at (800) 252-5400. |
| Staff Training Requirements | All staff must complete training and continuing education. All managers need to complete a 24-hour course on assisted living management within their first year, and complete a minimum of 12 hours of ongoing education annually. All staff must receive four hours of orientation training. Full-time attendants must be 18 years old or hold a high school diploma, and must complete 16 hours of hands-on training and supervision. Yearly education and training are mandatory. |
| Staffing Requirements | Each facility must have a manager and enough staff on every shift to meet the needs of residents as outlined in their individual service plans. In Type A facilities, small communities must have night shift staff available in case of an emergency. Large communities must have awake and directly accessible night shift staff. All Type B communities need awake and directly available staff at nighttime. Communities must post monthly staffing patterns. |
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