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Assisted Living in Vermont
The 2024 Senior Living Report places Vermont in the number one spot overall for senior living in the United States, so it’s worth taking a closer look at this retirement destination. In fact, Vermont is ranked among the top 10 in health care, affordability, transportation and quality of life. There’s a higher than average number of primary care physicians in the state, and world-class hospitals like UVM Medical Center are nearby in case of emergency. The crime rate is significantly below the national average, adding to seniors’ sense of well-being.
When it comes to affordability, seniors in Vermont benefit from a cost of living lower than the national average; however, assisted living costs are on the higher side at $5,250 per month. Currently, 20% of the state’s 645,000 residents are aged 65 and older, meaning there’s a large community of seniors, as well as programs and entertainment to serve that population.
This guide provides an overview of the cost of senior living in Vermont, with a more detailed look at assisted living prices in the state. It also has information regarding Medicaid, assisted living regulations and resources available to help older Vermonters.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Vermont
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 Vermont and its 5 cities.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Vermont's Top Cities
Assisted living costs vary significantly across Vermont's top cities, a factor to consider when seeking care. In South Burlington, seniors pay about $5,013 per month, while those in Bennington pay $6,365. Prices significantly increase in Middlebury, which offers care for $8,400. However, St. Albans has one of the most affordable monthly rates in the state at $2,950.
Vermont
$6,710
South Burlington
$5,013
Bennington
$6,365
Middlebury
$8,400
St. Albans
$2,950
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Vermont
Inflation continues to raise assisted living costs in Vermont. Between 2022 and 2023, prices went from $6,004 to $6,710 per month for an increase of 11.8%. This is higher than the United States overall increase of 9.6%, bringing costs to $4,459 in 2023. Neighboring states have also been impacted by inflation. In New Hampshire, prices rose nearly 20%, while Maine saw a lower increase of 1.7%. Meanwhile, costs jumped by 14.9% in New York and 7.6% in Massachusetts.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vermont | $6,004 | $6,710 | $7,147 |
| U.S. Average | $4,070 | $4,459 | $4,802 |
| New Hampshire | $5,191 | $6,217 | $6,827 |
| Maine | $5,513 | $5,609 | $5,855 |
| New York | $4,091 | $4,699 | $5,431 |
| Massachusetts | $5,202 | $5,599 | $6,393 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Care type can also influence costs due to the varying amenities, specialized services and levels of care each option provides. For example, assisted living costs $6,710 per month, while memory care has a higher rate of $9,639. Independent living is more affordable than both at $4,950.
Assisted Living
$6,710
Memory Care
$9,639
Independent Living
$4,950
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Vermont?
In Vermont, Medicaid is known as Green Mountain Care. It’s operated under the authority of the Global Commitment to Health Waiver, which is generally just called Medicaid to avoid confusion. It provides a wide range of services to diverse beneficiaries throughout the state.
Seniors living in assisted living facilities may be able to receive financial assistance directly through Medicaid. Alternatively, there’s a waiver program that can help people pay for assisted living care. Both programs pay for care provided in a facility but don’t provide funds for room and board.
What Assisted Living Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Vermont?
There are two programs that can help seniors pay for assisted living in Vermont. The first, known as the Assistive Community Care Services (ACCS) care program, provides services directly through Medicaid. It’s available for people enrolled in the community Medicaid program who live in or are moving to a Level III assisted living facility or residential care home. It’s intended to help people who can’t live independently at home but don’t need the level of care found in nursing homes.
The ACCS is an entitlement, so services are available to everyone who qualifies for the program. These services include personal care, case management, routine nursing, medication assistance, assistive therapy and restorative nursing. In addition to being eligible for Medicaid, applicants must require ACCS services and live in a participating facility. If you aren’t already on Medicaid, you must apply to ensure you’re eligible. Otherwise, the first step in applying is to find a participating facility that meets your needs.
Assisted Living Waiver Programs in Vermont
Choices for Care
Choices for Care (CFC) is the second program that offers assisted living support. It provides long-term support services to adults in Vermont who require a nursing home level of care and is available to people aged 65 and older and those 18-64 who have a physical disability. Applicants must also meet the financial eligibility criteria for Medicaid waivers in the state.
The program is designed to delay or prevent nursing home placement, so the services provided are intended to help people remain living at home or in the community. Services include case management, personal care, assistive technology and emergency response systems. Assisted living is listed as a separate benefit and incorporates many of the program’s other benefits. Each recipient is approved for a specific suite of services based on their needs and where they reside.
To apply for the program, seniors can contact the Department of Children and Family Services benefit hotline at (800) 479-6151. Alternatively, local Area Agencies on Aging can provide information and assistance.
How To Know If You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Vermont
The primary eligibility criteria for Medicaid is financial, as the program is designed to help low-income people access health care. Applicants must meet both asset and income limits, and these can be different depending on the program you’re applying for.
People in Vermont applying for Community Medicaid, which includes the ACCS program, cannot receive more than $2,742 per month in income. Single applicants can have up to $2,000 in assets, while married applicants can have up to $3,000.
If only one spouse is applying, the limits are the same as for singles; however, the non-applicant spouse may be eligible for a Minimum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance. This allows the applicant to transfer income to their spouse to ensure their financial needs can be met. Additionally, the non-applicant can have up to $148,620 in assets.
Not all assets are counted when calculating Medicaid eligibility. Personal belongings, an automobile and irrevocable burial trusts are generally not counted. A home is not included if a person’s spouse still lives there.
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $32,904 | $2,000*** | |
| Two People | 1 | $32,904** | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two People | 2 | $65,808 | $3,000 |
*A recipient may not be able to keep income up to the listed level and may need to contribute to care costs instead.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
***The asset limit is $5,000 for single applicants who own and live in their own home.
In addition, applicants must meet certain functional and other eligibility requirements. Recipients must be:
- A Vermont resident
- A U.S. national, citizen, personal resident or legal alien
- In need of a particular level of care, which depends the program requirements
How To Apply for Medicaid in Vermont
Vermonters can apply for Medicaid online through Vermont Health Connect. You can also work with an assister to apply. Other options include applying by phone by calling the Customer Support Center at 1-855-899-9600 or completing a paper application and returning it by mail.
Information You Will Need
Medicaid needs to verify certain information to process your application. The documentation you may need to provide includes proof of:
- Identity
- Age
- Citizenship or immigration status
- Social Security Number
- Current health insurance
- Income
- Assets
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Vermont has an assisters program that provides in-person assistance to people applying for Medicaid and other health insurance. In addition, Medicaid has a comprehensive website that can answer questions and a health insurance counseling program to assist seniors.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Assister Program | Local assisters online | Vermont’s Assister Program has three types of roles: navigators, certified application counselors and brokers. Of particular interest to seniors are the navigators, who are funded by state grants and can assist anyone in the community who requires help with their health care coverage. |
| State Health Insurance Program | (800) 642-5119 | The State Health Insurance Program helps Medicare beneficiaries navigate their health insurance benefits. Counselors can assist with both private and public programs, including Medicaid. The program is run through local Area Agencies on Aging. |
| Vermont Medicaid | Online | The Vermont Medicaid website has information about the various programs offered by the state, plus the eligibility requirements and application processes. |
Does Medicare Cover Assisted Living in Vermont?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted living in Vermont. 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 Vermont.
Paying for Assisted Living Facilities in Vermont
The ACCS program works with assisted living communities and residential care homes to provide seniors with care services, including:
- Case management: This ensures seniors have access to medical, social and other required services and that they are receiving all the services that are outlined in their ACCS plan.
- Personal care assistance: Help with the activities of daily living such as eating, dressing, grooming and personal hygiene.
- Nursing assessment and routine tasks: Regular evaluations and monitoring performed by a licensed registered nurse, as well as medication monitoring and assistance.
- On-site assistive therapy: Assistance from a licensed professional to modify activities, behaviors and techniques to improve cognitive skills.
- Restorative nursing: Services designed to maintain overall function.
All of these services are provided by level III residential care homes or assisted living residences, and paid for by Medicaid. Room and board expenses are still to be paid by the resident and can be arranged privately between the resident and the care facility. The ACCS program allows seniors to retain a monthly allowance of $47.66 per month for personal needs.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a Vermont resident aged 65 or older
- Require the services provided by ACCS
- Live in a participating level III residential care home or assisted living residence.
- Meet the income requirements of the Medicaid ACCS program, which is $1,125 in Chittenden County and $1,041 for those living outside the county.
To learn more about eligibility requirements:
- Find a participating assisted living residence or level III residential care home that has both space and ability to meet the seniors
- If the senior isn't already on Medicaid, an application needs to be submitted to a local Department for Children and Families Services office. This office is responsible for determining ACCS
- Once the Department for Children and Family Services has determined eligibility, the senior or caregiver must complete a Verification of Eligibility form with the assisted living residence or residential care home.
- Those who aren't currently receiving supplemental security income need to contact a Social Security Administration office to determine whether or not they're eligible for supplemental security income in an assisted living residence or level III residential care home.
- When moving into the chosen community, or upon completion of all the above steps, an agreement must be signed between the senior and the residence.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Assisted Living in Vermont
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 an LTC insurance policy. |
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Vermont
There are many resources in Vermont 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont Area Agencies on Aging | Vermont's Area Agencies on Aging are a vital resource for older adults to remain independent. Services available include pickup and home delivery of hot and healthy meals, access to free online classes to socialize and learn new skills, caregiver support and home medication help. Older adults in Vermont can also get help through various AAA programs, such as tai chi for fall prevention classes and phone services for keeping housebound seniors connected. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Vermont 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont 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 Vermont seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont Meals on Wheels | Vermont Meals on Wheels is part of a nationwide network of food assistance programs. Seniors must be 60 years of age or older to start the application process. Nutritious meals, a watchful eye and companionship are important components of the program. Well-balanced meals are served in congregate settings such as senior centers for those mobile enough to attend, and they're delivered daily to the homes of immobile seniors. Additional services may include pet meal delivery, emergency meals and transportation to doctor appointments. | |
| Vermont Foodbank | 800-585-2265 | The Vermont Foodbank works with partner agencies throughout the state to connect seniors and low-income residents with emergency food providers in their local areas. Its late-summer Apple Days program provides 2,000 free pecks of apples to Vermont residents every year. The organization also plans fundraisers, such as the annual Point to Point bicycle ride, that support local food bank operations. |
| Vermont 3SquaresVT | 800-479-6151 | Vermont's 3SquaresVT program helps seniors and low-income state residents purchase healthy, nutritious food at grocery stores, convenience stores and farmers' markets. Single adults of 65 years of age or older receive their monthly benefits as direct deposits to bank accounts, while individuals under 65 receive electronic benefit transfer cards. To qualify, seniors should have a gross household income that's under 185% of the federal poverty level, though in some cases seniors with limited resources may still qualify. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Vermont 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont Assistive Technology Program | 800-750-6355 | The Vermont Assistive Technology Program offers seniors the opportunity to borrow assistive technology to try it out. If the device is acceptable, the program provides vendor information or seniors can search for the product on the exchange site. |
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 Vermont have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont Home Access Program | 802-224-1827 | Low-income Vermont seniors who need home modifications to improve accessibility in their homes may be eligible for assistance from the Home Access Program. The Vermont Center for Independent Living offers this program which provides modifications to bathrooms and home entrances. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Vermont 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont Legal Aid Senior Law Project | The Vermont Legal Aid Senior Law Program provides legal advice on civil matters to low-income seniors aged 60 and older in the state. The program provides advice on subjects including consumer issues and housing. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Vermont 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont 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 Vermont 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont Property Tax Credit for Disabled Veterans | 802-828-3379 | Seniors who classify as disabled veterans may be eligible for a property tax exemption. If they meet qualifying criteria, the program grants an assessment reduction of $10,000 to $40,000. Surviving spouses of previously qualified veterans may also be eligible if they have not remarried. |
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. Vermont 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont Fuel Assistance | 800-479-6151 | Seniors who meet income guidelines may qualify for assistance with their home heating bills, whether they are homeowners or renters. Application approval also automatically qualifies the participant for free weatherization services |
| Vermont Green Mountain Power Energy Assistance Program (EAP) | 800-775-0516 | Seniors who qualify for the Green Mountain Power Energy Assistance Program will receive a 25% discount off the cost of their first 600 used kilowatt hours each month. If the account is already in arrears, the program also offers a one-time forgiveness of the outstanding charges. |
Veteran's Services
Vermont 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont VA Benefits and Health Care | One of the benefits of serving in the military is access to health care and financial benefits from Veterans Affairs, which Vermont residents can access through the Vermont VA Benefits and Health Care offices spread throughout the state. To be eligible for these programs, seniors need to be qualified veterans. The primary benefits center and VA medical center are located in White River Junction, and satellite locations are spread throughout Vermont. |
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Vermont
Assisted living facilities in Vermont are licensed and regulated by the Department of Disability, Aging and Independent Living, Division of Licensing and Protection. The division makes sure that facilities comply with the rules and regulations that protect the welfare and rights of residents and ensure that people receive quality care. Assisted living communities are governed by both assisted living and residential care home regulations.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Assisted Living Service Plan Requirements | Residents must be assessed within 14 days of admission to a facility. The facility and the resident or their authorized representative work together to develop a care plan that describes the needs and choices of the residents and how the facility will meet these needs. The plan must be reviewed at least annually or whenever a change in the resident’s condition or circumstances warrant a review. |
| Assisted Living Admission Requirements | Facilities can’t admit anyone who needs medical, surgical, or nursing care from a hospital. People who require specific types of treatment or equipment also can’t be admitted. This includes those who need a ventilator, respirator, or people who need two-person assistance to walk or transfer from bed. If at any time the patient becomes a danger to themselves or others, or if the assisted living residence is no longer able to meet their needs, then the resident may be discharged. |
| Assisted Living Scope of Care | In Vermont, assisted living communities provide seniors with housing and meals, as well as assistance with ADLs. These communities do not provide skilled nursing care and do not generally assist residents with dressing and wound care, injections, catheters or IVs. Residents of assisted living who require temporary skilled nursing care may be able to receive assistance from home health care agencies. |
| Assisted Living Medicaid Policy | Vermont has various Medicaid programs that can fund care in assisted living facilities, including Choices for Care and Assistive Community Care Services. Facilities that participate in these programs must be licensed to do so and may have additional requirements that must be met. Not all facilities can receive Medicaid funding; confirm the payment options available to you before finalizing your choice of facility. |
| Assisted Living Facility Requirements | In Vermont, all apartments must have private occupancy unless the resident voluntarily chooses to share. These apartments must contain a private bedroom, bath, living space, kitchen capacity and lockable door. The apartment must be at least 225 square feet, excluding the bathroom and closets. Residents must also have adequate storage space. All doors must be accessible or adapted for wheelchair use. Facilities must provide common areas and access to outdoor recreation areas. |
| Medication Management Regulations | Staff in assisted living facilities can’t assist with or administer medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter, unless there’s a written, signed order by a physician. Not all facilities offer medication management. For those that do, medication must be administered under the direction of a licensed nurse. Unlicensed staff may administer medication if an RN has assessed the resident’s needs and delegated the task. Any medication that’s administered must be documented. |
| Staffing Requirements | Facilities must have enough staff to provide necessary care and maintain a safe and healthy environment. In Vermont, every assisted living residence and residential care home needs a manager who works a total of 32 hours/week. There must also be an RN responsible for staff training and overseeing the care of all residents. The RN evaluates the health of residents and makes appropriate recommendations if the facility is no longer able to provide care for the resident. |
| Staff Training Requirements | Staff must be adequately trained to perform the required services. People providing direct care must receive at least 12 hours of continuing training each year. In addition, facilities must provide new staff with an orientation that includes training in the philosophy and principles of assisted living. Orientation should cover resident rights, emergency procedures, infection control, and abuse reporting. |
| Background Checks for Assisted Living | All staff who provide personal and healthcare services are subject to a background check through the abuse registry and the Vermont Criminal Information Center. |
| Requirements for Reporting Abuse | Any incidents of abuse or suspected abuse must be reported to Adult Protective Services or the Commissioner of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living within 48 hours of the facility becoming aware of it. In addition, a written report must be filed with the licensing agency. In the event that the report cannot be made to the Commissioner of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living, the report should be made directly to the Secretary of Human Services. |
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