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Independent Living in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is known for its rich Colonial history and charming seaside towns, where seniors can walk miles of beaches and enjoy spectacular ocean views. The state may be small, but it’s packed with things to do. Retirees can tour the historic mansions of Newport, take in arts and culture festivals at WaterFire Providence and see favorite animals up close at the Roger Williams Park Zoo. Winters in Rhode Island can be cold and snowy, but summer weather is generally pleasant, making it easy for residents to enjoy activities outdoors. Seniors have access to excellent health care at Miriam Hospital and Rhode Island Hospital. U.S. News rated these as the top two hospitals in the state, ranking them as high-performing in specialties such as cardiology and geriatric care.
Independent living is ideal for seniors who don’t need help with their activities of daily living, but no longer want the responsibility of maintaining their own home. The average cost of independent living in Rhode Island is $3,218 per month, but prices vary depending on the facility and amenities offered.
This guide includes a price comparison of independent living in nearby states, ways to pay for care and free resources for seniors across Rhode Island.
The Cost of Independent Living in Rhode Island
When trying to decide how to pay for independent 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 independent living in Rhode Island and its 4 cities.
Note: Assisted Living generally costs 30% to 40% more than Independent Living in most markets. Since no source authoritatively documents specific Independent Living costs, we’ve estimated such costs in this guide by subtracting 35% from the Assisted Living cost data in the 2021 Genworth Financial Cost of Care Survey.
Rhode Island’s prices for long-term care are significantly higher than those of its New England neighbors. In this state, seniors pay roughly $4,437 per month for Independent Living. That’s over $1,000 more than seniors pay in nearby Connecticut or Vermont ($3,334 and $3,413, respectively) and about $500 more than seniors pay in New Hampshire at $3,934. At $4,225, Massachusetts’ Independent Living costs are the closest in the immediate region to Rhode Island’s.
The Cost of Independent Living in Rhode Island's Top Cities
The numbers for independent living costs in Rhode Island's top cities travel a fairly smooth path. Providence and Warwick form the lower and upper bookends of the range at $2,207 and $3,039. Johnston is just above Providence at $2,971 and Barrington falls just short of the top spot with its $3,027. They all come in below the state average, which means other cities are more expensive, so thorough research is important.
Rhode Island
$$4,250
Providence
$$2,207
Warwick
$$3,039
Barrington
$$3,027
Johnston
$$2,971
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Independent Living in Rhode Island
Although inflation has hit a lot of areas, the New England region of the U.S. hasn't been impacted as much. In fact, most of the states there saw a decrease in their independent living costs in the past year. Rhode Island went down by 6.8% compared to the 5.2% increase across the nation. Connecticut had a staggering drop of 30.4% and Massachusetts was a bit more modest with a 17.7% decrease. New Hampshire also lowered its costs by 18.9%. Vermont had the only increase, and it was a mere 1.1%. Costs are predicted to increase again, so being financially prepared is critical.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $4,560 | $4,250 | $4,526 |
| U.S. Average | $2,810 | $2,955 | $3,162 |
| Connecticut | $4,577 | $3,187 | $3,394 |
| Massachusetts | $4,258 | $3,506 | $3,733 |
| Vermont | $4,895 | $4,950 | $5,272 |
| New Hampshire | $4,777 | $3,874 | $4,313 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
When exploring senior living costs in Rhode Island, different options suit various needs. Assisted living appears more budget-friendly at $4,997 compared to memory care at $7,307, but independent living is the most affordable at $4,250. These cost variations result from factors such as specialized services and available amenities. Consider unique needs and preferences when weighing the costs. Finding the right balance ensures a happy and fulfilling senior living experience within the budget.
Assisted Living
$$4,997
Memory Care
$$7,307
Independent Living
$$4,250
Can You Use Medicare or Medicaid to Pay for Independent Living in Rhode Island?
Unfortunately, you cannot use Medicaid and Medicare to help pay the monthly fee for residing in an Independent Living community. For seniors who need help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), there may be financial assistance programs available to help cover the cost of care in Independent Living. For more information about financial assistance for those who need a higher level of care, read our guide to Assisted Living in Rhode Island.
Read on for more information about using alternative means to make Independent Living more affordable, such as retirement funds, the sale of a home, etc.
Paying for Independent Living in Rhode Island
Rhode Island has a Medicaid program that pays for certain long-term services and supports, but it’s typically limited to people who need a high level of care. Additionally, seniors must have limited income and assets to qualify. Many seniors use Social Security benefits and personal funds to pay for independent living. Other ways to pay include long-term care insurance or a reverse mortgage, which is a cash loan that’s taken against the equity in a senior’s primary home. This can be a good option if other family members want to remain in the home after a senior moves to independent living.
Independent Living Resources in Rhode Island
There are many resources in Rhode Island 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging | 401-462-3000 | The Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging is the state's designated unit on aging. Its vision is to ensure all Rhode Islanders age strongly and have the information and resources they need. Seniors aged 55 and older can receive help obtaining housing, at-home companionship and care, home-delivered meals, transportation and respite care. They can also get legal assistance and referrals and assistance with the cost of prescription drugs, chronic disease management and free health care insurance counseling. |
| Point: My Options RI ADRC | 401-444-0600 | This free resource provides a range of services for older adults in Rhode Island. People ages 55 and older as well as those living with disabilities can access 24/7 phone support from trained professional counselors. Interpreters at the Point ADRC provide assistance in more than 100 different languages. Family members can seek referrals if a loved one has memory or cognitive symptoms. Other services include help with Medicare, caregiver support, long-term care help and assistance with nutrition, energy and health care. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Rhode Island 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island 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. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Rhode Island 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Nursing Home Transition Program | 401-462-6393 | The NHTP is an initiative of the Health and Human Services Department that helps current nursing home residents who are moving back to their homes or other community-based settings, such as memory care programs and assisted living. |
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 Rhode Island seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 855-697-4347 | The Rhode Island Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps low-income seniors and families obtain healthy food to meet their nutritional needs. To be eligible, households must meet specific income, expenses and resources guidelines. Electronic benefits transfer cards are given to recipients, who can use them like debit cards to purchase qualifying food and beverage items at supermarkets, grocery stores and farmers markets statewide as well as at participating online retailers. It can't be used for alcohol, tobacco or prepared food items. |
| Rhode Island Community Food Bank | 401-942-6325 | The Rhode Island Community Food Bank works with over 140 member agencies to serve roughly 80,000 state residents per month. Seniors and other Rhode Island residents experiencing food insecurity can contact the RICFB for help finding local food distribution points, applying for SNAP benefits and receiving the federal-level Commodity Supplemental Food Program. The organization also maintains a spice box program that helps participants keep their kitchen pantries stocked with flavoring elements. |
| Rhode Island Meals on Wheels | 401-351-6700 | In Rhode Island, a single organization provides Meals on Wheels throughout the state. Meals are delivered each weekday and provide one-third of the participant's recommended daily dietary intake. The program also provides a daily well-being check and helps to lessen isolation. Other programs offered include cafe programs and pet food delivery. |
| Rhode Island Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) | 401-222-4700 | The Rhode Island Farmers Market Nutrition Program is a USDA-run and locally officiated initiative aimed at bolstering senior nutrition with seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables. It provides eligible Rhode Island adults over 60 with twice-yearly food parcels consisting of fresh produce, honey and herbs sourced from local farmers. Low-income seniors who meet certain household income thresholds can sign up at various locations or online. Pickup locations are situated across Rhode Island, with details also accessible online. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Living
Low-income elderly individuals in senior living communities can access financial assistance through local-run programs. These Rhode Island resources offer advice, guidance and support to help older adults pay for the services offered by long-term care providers.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| LeadingAge Rhode Island (LARI) | 401-490-7612 | LeadingAge Rhode Island is a not-for-profit organization made up of a group of aging services providers, including nursing homes, day health service providers, senior housing providers and other organizations. It connects seniors to service providers and offers information and advocacy services to help people maintain a high quality of life as they age. |
| Rhode Island Assisted Living Association | 401-435-8888 | RIALA is a nonprofit membership organization comprised mostly of professionals in the assisted living sector. The website can be a great source of information for anyone else interested in learning more about assisted living, such as how it works, how it's paid for and which particular facilities accept public funding sources. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Rhode Island collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.
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 Rhode Island have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | WAP reduces heating bills by making homes more energy-efficient. Services include installing insulation, reducing drafts and providing proper ventilation. It can also install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. | |
| Rhode Island Livable Homes Modification Grant Program | 401-737-1238 | RI Livable grants can reimburse part of the cost of modifying an existing residence. Modifications can include adding ramps, widening doorways, adding home monitoring systems or installing a back-up electric generator for life-sustaining equipment such as respirators. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Rhode Island 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Disability Rights Rhode Island | 800-733-5332 | DRRI is an advocacy group that provides representation to disabled people throughout the state. Although it doesn't provide durable medical equipment directly, it can help people find funding from public sources and may also represent people who have been denied or who are incurring delays in acquiring equipment from Medicare and Medicaid. |
| Rhode Island Alliance for Better Long Term Care Ombudsman Program | 401-785-3340 | The Rhode Island Alliance for Better Long Term Care Ombudsman Program provides dedicated advocates for seniors residing in shared living situations such as memory care facilities, assisted living communities and nursing homes. Ombudsmen help seniors avoid or fight back against elder abuse and ensure that they're receiving an adequate quality of care. They're also tasked with representing senior interests to local, state and federal government agencies and helping educate the public about issues important to seniors. |
Medicaid Resources
Navigating the Medicaid system is often difficult and confusing. Several Rhode Island resources help older adults by providing advice on Medicaid options, waiver programs and eligibility criteria to help seniors receive the right health care benefits.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| RIte @ Home | 401-462-5274 | The RIte@Home program is a shared living option available to seniors who can't live independently. Those on the program are matched with a caregiver whom they live with. Their caregiver can be someone they already know, such as a relative or neighbor. The caregiver receives training, support and a stipend for providing services, including personal care, meals, transportation and homemaker services. While the program pays for the caregiver's stipend, funds for room and board are not provided. Some recipients may need to pay a share of the cost, depending on their income. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Rhode Island 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Property Tax Relief Program | 401-574-8829 | Rhode Island provides property tax relief to seniors through a tax credit on personal income tax. A percentage of income is allowable as credit, based on the household income. |
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. Rhode Island 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) | LIHWAP helps low-income households maintain access to drinking water and wastewater. One-time payments can be made directly to utility companies for people who have past-due bills and are at risk of having services terminated. | |
| Rhode Island Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | 855-697-4347 | Rhode Island's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps state seniors stay warm during the winter months by providing financial support for heating bills. In addition to making direct payments to energy and utility companies on behalf of program participants, the LIHEAP can assist seniors experiencing heating emergencies due to shutoff notices or malfunctioning equipment. To qualify, seniors must make no more than 60% of the Rhode Island median income level. The application period is from September to May. |
Veteran's Services
Rhode Island 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island VA Benefits and Health Care | Seniors who served in the military can receive a wide range of assistance through the Rhode Island VA Benefits and Health Care program. These benefits include long-term support, routine and specialized care at VA medical centers and income support, including service-connected disability payments and retirement pensions. Veterans can access services at offices and clinics in Providence, Warwick and Middletown. |
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