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Assisted Living in Utah
Situated in the west-central region of the United States, Utah offers scenic mountain views and a mix of urban, suburban and rural environments. The state has nearly 3.3 million residents, and while seniors only make up a little over a tenth of the population, this community is projected to grow quickly over the coming years as the population ages.
Numerous factors make Utah an attractive option for those in their retirement years. It ranks 23rd overall in the 2024 Senior Living Report based on factors across multiple categories, including transportation, affordability and quality of life. The state ranks particularly high in the Affordability category, coming in fifth in the nation, which may appeal to those with budgetary considerations. It’s home to University of Utah Hospital, which is nationally ranked or high-performing in nearly two dozen specialties, procedures and conditions. It also has affordable assisted living rates that come in over 20% below the national median, at $3,500 monthly.
This guide provides more information on assisted living rates in and around Utah and highlights options for covering care costs. It also gives an overview of some nonprofit agencies and programs that serve seniors and breaks down the regulations local assisted living facilities follow.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Utah
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 Utah and its 24 cities.
The Genworth 2021 Cost of Care Survey, which outlines long-term care costs in communities across the country, shows that seniors in Utah pay $3,500 per month for assisted living. This is $1,000 lower than the national median of $4,500, indicating that it’s among the most cost-effective options in the nation for care. Local care costs are also affordable compared to rates in bordering states. In Nevada, monthly fees are a little higher at $3,750, and in Idaho, seniors pay $3,838. In Arizona, assisted living facilities charge $4,000 per month, and in Colorado, fees exceed the national average at $4,750.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Utah's Top Cities
Within Utah, the cost of assisted living varies widely by city. In Salt Lake City's capital, costs remain relatively close to the state average, with a monthly rate of $4,368. That number falls to $3,753 in Provo, then $3,100 in Logan, one of the state's most affordable cities for assisted living. South Jordan is the costliest city in the state, with an average care rate of $4,971.
Utah
$4,129
Salt Lake City
$4,368
Logan
$3,100
Provo
$3,753
South Jordan
$4,971
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Utah
In Utah, inflation had a visible impact on the cost of assisted living, slightly higher than the national change. From 2022-2023, costs rose an average of 11.9% throughout the state, compared to the U.S. average of 9.6%.
In surrounding states, the effects of inflation vary from moderate to substantial. In Nevada and Colorado, for instance, the cost of assisted living has risen by 3.6% and 5.4% in the past year. It has risen a noticeable 10.3 in Arizona, while Wyoming's average monthly rate has skyrocketed 26.8% from $3,944 in 2022 to $5,000 in 2023.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Utah | $3,690 | $4,129 | $4,200 |
| U.S. Average | $4,070 | $4,459 | $4,802 |
| Nevada | $3,586 | $3,716 | $3,957 |
| Colorado | $4,392 | $4,630 | $5,063 |
| Arizona | $4,008 | $4,420 | $4,962 |
| Wyoming | $3,944 | $5,000 | $5,325 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Throughout Utah, the cost of senior living varies by care type. Independent living is the most affordable option for seniors, with care averaging $2,581 monthly. Assisted living costs an average of $4,129, while memory care weighs in with the most expensive monthly rate of $4,425. When deciding which option to choose for long-term care, seniors should keep their level of assistance, personal preferences and on-site amenities in mind.
Assisted Living
$4,129
Memory Care
$4,425
Independent Living
$2,581
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Utah?
Utah’s Medicaid program provides comprehensive health insurance coverage to income-qualifying individuals within the state. While this program doesn’t pay for assisted living services directly, it does provide this coverage through the New Choices Waiver program. This program is primarily for those living in nursing homes who want to move back into their own home, but it can also pay for care for those who want to transition to an assisted living facility, as long as the facility can accommodate their needs.
Utah Medicaid is an entitlement program that guarantees benefits to everyone who meets eligibility guidelines. The New Choices Waiver has limited slots, most of which are for those who currently live in a nursing home but want to transition to assisted living.
What Assisted Living Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Utah?
Under the New Choices Waiver, Utah’s Medicaid program helps seniors and those with disabilities who are living in a nursing home to transition to a less intensive environment, including their home or an assisted living facility. The program pays upfront costs to help individuals transfer out of a nursing home, along with additional benefits such as assistive technology, respite care, personal emergency response systems and durable medical equipment.
Assisted Living Waiver Programs in Utah
New Choices Waiver
The New Choices Waiver pays for services and supports for those who require nursing home level care but want to live in an assisted living facility. It includes a range of benefits and services to reduce individuals’ out-of-pocket long-term care expenses. This includes:
- Adult day health care
- Assisted living
- Attendant care
- Case management
- Chore services
- Emergency response systems
- Financial management services
- Medication assistance services
- Homemaker services
- Non-emergency medical transportation
- Personal budget assistance
- Respite care
- Specialized medical equipment
To be eligible for this waiver, applicants must be at least 65 years old, legal U.S. citizens or residents and permanent residents of Utah. They must also meet financial limits. Seniors may have up to $2,523 in monthly income and up to $2,000 in countable assets. If spouses are applying, these limits are doubled. If only one spouse is applying, only their income is considered. They may have up to $2,000 in countable assets, and the nonapplicant can have up to $137,400.
Seniors must also have lived in a nursing home for at least 90 days prior to applying for the waiver or at least 365 days in an assisted living facility. The majority of available waiver slots are reserved for those in nursing homes. Only those in this setting can apply for the waiver at any time. Non-reserved slots are open to those in assisted living. There are certain application periods throughout the year. These include:
- March 1-March 14
- July 1-July 14
- November 1-November 14
The individual’s application has to be received within five business days of the end of the application period or it will be denied, even if the date stamped on the application is within the open application period.
Because slots are limited, priority is given to those who’ve been in nursing homes for the longest period of time. Even if someone meets the program’s criteria for financial limits, medical requirements and length of stay, they may still be placed on a waitlist. For those currently in assisted living, the ranking cutoff point is historically considerably longer than 365 days.
Application materials aren’t available online, but seniors can request a paper application by calling (800) 662-9651 and selecting option 6. Seniors in nursing homes request an application for reserved slots, and those in assisted living request an application for non-reserved slots. They can send completed applications to the UDOH Bureau of Long Term Services and Supports by faxing them to (801) 323-1586. Alternately, they can mail them to:
UDOH Bureau of Long Term Services & Supports
P.O. Box 143112
288 North 1460 West
Salt Lake City, UT 84114
How To Know If You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Utah
To be eligible for Utah’s regular Medicaid program, individuals must meet financial requirements. For the Aging Waiver, single applicants can have up to $1,215 in monthly income. Married couples where just one spouse is applying can earn $1,133 per month and $1,215 each if both are applying. For the New Choices Waiver, annual income limits are $32,904 for each applicant. This includes income from all sources, including pension payments, veterans’ benefits, Social Security benefits, IRA withdrawals and stock dividends.
Each applicant for both programs may also have up to $2,000 in countable assets. This includes stocks, bonds, bank accounts, cash and real estate the applicant doesn’t live in. Spousal impoverishment rules let the applicant transfer income and assets to their spouse under certain circumstances. Seniors whose income and assets exceed these limits may still qualify for services by spending down income and assets or through Medicaid planning.
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | Aging Waiver: $14,580 | $2,000 | |
| Two People | 1 | Aging Waiver: $13,596** | $2,000 | $128,640 |
| Two People | 2 | Aging Waiver: $29,160** | $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 meeting financial guidelines, individuals must be legal U.S. citizens or residents and permanent residents of Utah.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Utah
To obtain Medicaid, seniors submit applications to the Department of Workforce Services online, in person or over the phone. Once they submit an application, the department contacts them by mail or phone. To apply online, seniors visit the MyCase platform. Alternately, they may download a paper application and fax it to (888) 522-9505 or mail it to:
Department of Workforce Services
PO Box 143245
Salt Lake City, UT 84114
Seniors can also visit their local DWS office and fill out a paper application in person.
Information You Will Need
When DWS contacts an applicant, the representative provides a comprehensive list of supporting documents applicants must provide. These may include:
- Birth certificate
- Social Security number
- Proof of income and assets
- Policy numbers for current health insurance coverage
- Proof of state residency
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Seniors in Utah can get answers to questions regarding Medicaid coverage and the application process from several helplines and nonprofit organizations. The following table features contact information for resources that provide free information, eligibility screenings and advice on the appeals process.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid Customer Service | (801) 538-6155 (within Salt Lake City) (800) 662-9651 (outside Salt Lake City) | The Medicaid Customer Service line is available on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday) and is staffed with specialists who answer questions about applying for coverage, understanding benefits and submitting supporting documents. |
| Medicaid Member Feedback | (801) 538-6417 (within Salt Lake City) (877) 291-5583 (outside Salt Lake City) | The Medicaid Member Feedback helpline fields calls from older veterans who have questions about their Medicaid benefits as well as those with concerns or complaints regarding their policies. |
| American Council on Aging | Online Only | The American Council on Aging provides information on Utah Medicaid, including financial eligibility limits, available waivers and qualifying when over the limits. The council can also connect seniors with Medicaid planners who can help them meet eligibility requirements to get coverage. |
| Hearings Unit | Online Only | The Utah Medicaid Hearings Unit investigates appeals regarding denied or canceled coverage. Seniors can contact this department for impartial assistance if Medicaid denies coverage for medical procedures or in-home or assisted living services they’re entitled to. |
Does Medicare Cover Assisted Living in Utah?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted living in Utah. 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 Utah.
Paying for Assisted Living Facilities in Utah
The New Choices Waiver Program offers Medicaid support to eligible seniors who are currently living in an ALF, nursing home or other care facilities. The program has only a designated number of slots, most of which are reserved for those wishing to move from a skilled nursing facility into a new community or those who have been receiving services in another waiver program and are ready for immediate admission to a new facility. The program covers a full range of services for seniors or disabled adults who require access to care in their home or in a specialized facility.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be over 65 years of age
- Be receiving social security disability benefits or supplemental security income
- Meet length-of-stay criteria
- Be an active resident of an approved facility.
To learn more about eligibility requirements, contact the New Choices Waiver program
office at (800) 662-9651, option 6, to apply.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Assisted Living in Utah
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 Utah
There are many resources in Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Area Agencies on Aging | The Utah Department of Health and Human Services Area Agencies on Aging offer services and programs to seniors in the state while also looking out for their well-being. Services range from legal guidance to healthy meals and nutrition programs. Caregivers can also access beneficial support, such as counseling, dementia education and respite care. Seniors can learn how to protect themselves against Medicare fraud and financial exploitation, receive Medicare assistance with insurance counseling and find in-home services to remain independent. | |
| Utah Division of Aging and Adult Services | 800-541-7735 | The Utah Division of Aging and Adult Services offers multiple resources for Utah seniors. Meal programs include food and nutrition education, Meals on Wheels deliveries and community lunches at senior centers throughout the state. The organization also offers seniors 60 years and older without reliable transportation rides to medical offices, dental checkups and personal care appointments. In-home services are also available for low-income seniors and include assistance with the activities of daily living and short-term respite care. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah 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 Utah seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Meals on Wheels | Utah Meals on Wheels operates independently run programs statewide that provide seniors with nutritious meals for free or low cost. Eligibility is open to adults age 60 and over. Seniors can enjoy their meals in a communal setting, such as the local senior center, or have fresh meals delivered directly to their door. The included safety checks help prevent falls, accidents or emergencies. Additional support services are available and may include pet meal delivery and emergency meal delivery during bad weather. | |
| Utah Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is a national nutrition program with an office in Salt Lake City, UT, offering eligible applicants help with purchasing food. Benefits are typically disbursed monthly onto an electronic benefits (EBT) card. Benefits may be used to buy all types of unprepared food, including meats, fruits and vegetables, breads and dairy products. Elderly households must meet income requirements. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Aging Waiver | 801-538-3910 | The Utah Aging Waiver Program provides supportive services to seniors aged 65 and older, helping them live as independently as possible in their homes or in community-based settings. Supervised by the Division of Aging and Adult Services, the program may cover case management, community living services, homemaker assistance, nonmedical transportation and other services based on individual assessments. Seniors who require care levels offered by a nursing facility and meet financial eligibility requirements for Medicaid can qualify for this program. |
| Utah Housing Liaison Program | 385-468-3200 | The Utah Housing Liaison Program helps older adults find suitable housing or make emergency rent payments to remain in their existing homes. In addition to providing many informational resources for the state's seniors, the Utah Housing Liaison works directly with individuals, providing counseling based on their unique circumstances and referrals to other organizations that might prove helpful. The program also assists with housing applications, helping seniors secure accommodations that meet their needs. |
| Utah Physical Disabilities Waiver | 801-538-4200 | The Physical Disabilities Waiver in Utah helps seniors with physical disabilities live independently in their own homes or communities. The waiver provides supportive services, including personal assistance, access to specialized medical equipment and a personal emergency response system. Applicants must have physical impairments arising from the functional loss of two or more limbs, need 14 hours per week of assistance and meet Medicaid eligibility requirements. This waiver has limited funding and successful applicants will be placed on a waiting list. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah AT4All | 800-524-5152 | AT4All is the partner site of the UATP where Utah residents can purchase and borrow used medical equipment. The site lists equipment across a range of categories, including environmental modifications, shower benches and mobility devices such as electric scooters and wheelchairs. |
| Utah Ability 1st | 801-373-5044 | Ability 1st Utah loans out medical equipment for up to 90 days and can extend loan periods when another patron hasn't requested the borrowed equipment. Its varied inventory includes scooters, wheelchairs and walkers, as well as shower benches and other helpful equipment. |
| Utah Assistive Technology | 801-466-5565 | At the Utah Independent Living Center, seniors who only need medical equipment for a short duration can borrow what they need from its loan bank, while those who need assistive devices long-term may qualify to use community funding to purchase what would normally be out of reach financially. Shower seats, scooters, walkers and bedside tables are some of the most common borrowed items. The maximum loan period is three months, but the program can extend it. |
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 Utah have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Section 504 Home Repair Program | 801-524-4264 | The Section 504 Home Repair Program awards grants of up to $10,000 to low-income seniors who need to perform repairs on their homes to remove health and safety hazards. |
| Utah Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | The WAP helps seniors perform home upgrades and repairs to increase their energy efficiency, resulting in lower energy bills. Contractors with the program typically perform repairs such as installing insulation in the attics and floors and replacing broken windows. Homeowners don't have to pay to participate, but if you rent your home, your landlord may need to pay a share of the costs. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Legal Services | 801-328-8891 | Older adults who live in Salt Lake County can turn to Utah Legal Services' Senior Citizen Law Center for free legal advice. ULS' volunteer lawyers can help seniors navigate legal concerns regarding public benefits, housing, health and family issues. The organization's Senior Law Project focuses on assistance involving estate and probate law, drafting wills, sharing bank accounts and establishing powers of attorney. |
| Utah Long Term Care Ombudsman | During a conflict at a nursing home, the Long Term Care Ombudsman is available to help seniors find solutions that serve their best interests. Complaints can be filed by long-term care facility residents or their family members. From a resident's right to privacy and confidentiality to their right to complain and make independent choices, workers in the Ombudsman program are knowledgeable about the freedoms granted to seniors living in nursing homes. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Health Care Association | 801-486-6100 | Utah Health Care Association (UHCA) is an industry organization for long-term care facilities, including nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It also provides resources and assistance to seniors and their families who are making decisions about their long-term care. UHCA produces a number of consumer guides for people exploring long-term care, including A Consumer's Guide to Nursing Facilities, and has a search program to help people find the right senior living facility. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Utah 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 of Utah Chapter | 801-265-1944 | Trained and knowledgeable representatives with the Alzheimer's Association Utah Chapter assist seniors living with the disease through a variety of channels. Their support services include referrals to local programs and services, such as identifying available memory care facilities. Staff also offers educational opportunities that highlight what to expect as the disease progresses. |
| Utah Easterseals-Goodwill Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) | 435-986-3576 | The SCSEP administered by Easterseals-Goodwill provides paid job training for low-income job seekers 55 and older, helping them gain experience and updated skills that may lead to regular employment. Participants receive an average of 20 hours of training per week in their assigned host agencies which are nonprofit and community service organizations. These assignments vary in duration, usually from 6 to 12 months. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah 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 Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Circuit Breaker Homeowner Low-Income Abatement | Seniors who qualify for the Homeowner Low-Income Abatement can lower their annual property taxes by up to $1,110. They can also add a 20% credit of their home's market value. | |
| Utah Indigent Abatement | 800-662-4335 | The Indigent Abatement is a tax relief program for older homeowners. It allows them to reduce their property tax burden by up to half the current year's tax or $1,110, whichever is less. Approval for the program is at the discretion of your county's tax office. |
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. Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Home Energy Assistance Target Program | 866-205-4357 | The Utah Home Energy Assistance Target Program offers year-round energy and water bill assistance for eligible low-income seniors in Utah. Households with people aged 60 and older are prioritized and can apply for aid a month early. Households must have a total income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. To qualify, applicants must provide a copy of their bills along with proof of income, medical expenses, alimony and applicable disability as well as any other requested documentation. |
Veteran's Services
Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah VA Benefits and Health Care | Utah VA Benefits and Health Care services include specialized programs for qualified veterans ages 65 and older. The state has a central VA facility in Salt Lake City as well as outpatient clinics in Moab, North Logan and St. George. The Regional Benefit Office is also in Salt Lake City. In addition to medical care, disabled veterans can access supplemental benefits, such as funds to cover long-term assistance at VA memory care or skilled nursing units or in-home care options. | |
| Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs | 801-326-2372 | The Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs administers benefits and services to qualifying veterans in the state. This department provides health care benefits, which can reduce out-of-pocket medical costs, along with life insurance, burial benefits and VA benefits claims assistance. |
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Utah
In Utah, the Department of Health’s Bureau of Health Facility Licensing and Certification monitors assisted living facilities and ensures a high standard of care by enforcing regulations. The following table features some key regulations that impact residents’ comfort and quality of life.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Assisted Living Service Plan Requirements | Residents in assisted living facilities have personalized care plans that reflect their cognitive, medical, physical and social needs. It highlights what services are provided, who provides the services and the frequency. This care plan must be developed within seven days of admission and updated periodically as needed. Any changes must also be recorded in the care plans, along with the reasons for changes. |
| Assisted Living Admission Requirements | Admission requirements depend on whether a facility is a Type I or Type II facility. Type I facilities accept residents who are ambulatory and could evacuate independently in an emergency. Type II facilities admit those who could evacuate with help from one person, require total assistance with more than three daily living activities, and are physically disabled but can direct their own care. |
| Assisted Living Scope of Care | Assisted living facilities provide housing, three meals and snacks daily, personal care, housekeeping and laundry services, building maintenance, arrangements for medical and dental services and social and recreational programs. They may also employ or contract with registered nurses who provide medication administration, nursing services and supervision of care staff. |
| Assisted Living Medicaid Policy | Medicaid covers assisted living services under the New Choices Waiver. This waiver is primarily for those transitioning from nursing home care to assisted living, but limited slots are open for current assisted living residents. The New Choices waiver also covers seniors the age of 65 who have been previously covered by another Medicaid waiver program Utah does not provide a Supplemental Security Income payment to residents. |
| Assisted Living Facility Requirements | Private units have to be at least 120 square feet, and double-occupancy units must be at least 200 square feet. No more than two residents can share a unit and only when both residents submit requests to share in writing. If units don’t have private bathrooms, there must be at least one toilet per six residents and a shower or bathtub for every 10 residents. All facilities are inspected regularly to ensure compliance with emergency preparedness codes. |
| Medication Management Regulations | Unlicensed caregivers can help with self-administration, and licensed staff can provide administration. Residents are permitted to self-administer their medications. Alternately, home health agency staff can administer the medication. Residents who rely on insulin can self-administer injections if their doctor determines they are able to do so. |
| Staffing Requirements | Assisted living facilities employ an administrator and a 24-hour direct care staff to meet residents’ needs as outlined in their care plans. There are no minimum staffing ratios. In a Type I ALF, a registered nurse must be available to oversee the as-needed administration of medications for residents who are unable to self-administer. Type II assisted living facilities must employ certified nurse aids, one of whom must be on duty 24 hours per day. |
| Staff Training Requirements | All staff must complete orientation, which must include topics such as their job description, residents’ rights, emergency preparedness, responsibilities for reporting abuse and ethics. They must also complete on-the-job training. Role-specific training may include medication management, food safety, accident prevention, and first-aid. |
| Background Checks for Assisted Living | All prospective assisted living facility staff are required to undergo criminal background checks before they’re eligible for hire. |
| Requirements for Reporting Abuse | State law requires that anyone who suspects elder abuse notify Adult Protective Services or their local law enforcement agency. Staff, residents, visitors and family members can report concerns regarding abuse, neglect or exploitation to the Department of Human Services Aging and Adult Services Division by calling (800) 371-7897. Or file a report online at any time. |
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