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Memory Care in Alaska
More than 730,000 people call Alaska home and of those who live there, an estimated 12.5% are seniors aged 65 and older. Many of the state’s seniors live with memory and cognitive issues, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 8,500 Alaskan seniors were living with Alzheimer’s as of 2020 and by 2025, that number is expected to increase 29.4% to 11,000. Unfortunately, 128 seniors died of Alzheimer’s disease in 2019, resulting in a 172.3% increase in deaths since 2000.
Seniors who prefer to stay out of the heat can appreciate the mild summers and chilly winters in Alaska. The state’s average summer high is just 64 degrees, while a January low of 3 degrees and 74 inches of snow are the norm in the state. Alaska has an above-average number of physicians, as well as above-average water and air quality indexes. When it comes to the cost of living in Alaska, seniors can expect to pay a little more than in the average U.S. state. The overall cost of living is more than 25% above the U.S. average. Memory care in Alaska costs an average of $8,538 per month.
Memory care can either be offered on its own in a community designed especially for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s, or more often, it’s provided as a service in a separate wing of an assisted living facility. Memory care programs are designed specifically for those with memory impairment, and the facilities often coordinate social activities and schedules specifically for the needs of those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
In this guide, readers can find a comprehensive overview of the average cost of memory care in Alaska and throughout other U.S. states. Additionally, this guide compares the cost of memory care with those of other types of care throughout the state and provides information about financial help, state regulations and local resources for seniors who are living with memory loss.
The Cost of Memory Care in Alaska
When trying to decide how to pay for memory care, 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.
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Alaska
Inflation has seen memory care costs in Alaska rise 4% from $7,803 to $8149 per month from 2022 to 2023. This is a smaller impact than the national average, which increased 10% to $5,369 in the same time. Most other states that border the pacific have had much larger price increases. Hawaii, the only other non-contiguous state, has seen costs rise by 33%. In Oregon, the increase is slightly lower at 31% and in Washington prices rose by 10%. California’s price difference is similar to Alaska’s with prices increasing by 3%.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $7,803 | $8,149 | $8,583 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Washington | $6,277 | $6,893 | $7,981 |
| Oregon | $5,734 | $7,501 | $7,944 |
| Hawaii | $5,453 | $7,271 | $7,215 |
| California | $5,688 | $5,866 | $6,453 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
There are other senior living options in Alaska for older adults with different requirements. At $8,149 per month, memory care is the most expensive. Seniors in assisted living pay an average of $6,768 and independent living is the most affordable at $4,485. The differing costs reflect the range of amenities provided and the level of care offered to residents.
Assisted Living
$6,768
Memory Care
$8,149
Independent Living
$4,485
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Alaska?
Note: For the purposes of this guide, when we say “Memory Care” we are referring to memory care provided in a “social setting,” such as an Assisted Living Facility. This is the most common way to receive Memory Care and is the best fit for all but the frailest seniors. Sometimes the actual service of memory care can be provided in a Nursing Home (“medical setting”), so the financial assistance options will be very different. To learn more about the financial assistance options available for memory care provided in a nursing home, read our guide to Nursing Home Care in Alaska.
Alaska’s Medicaid program doesn’t provide direct coverage for memory care. However, some services may be paid for under Home and Community-Based Services waivers (HCBS).
The Alaskans Living Independently Waiver covers all age groups from 21 years and older, but the services delivered vary based on need (such as disability). For adults aged 65+ it can pay for care services in an assisted living facility providing memory care services, but it can’t pay room and board costs. The Personal Care Services Program provides two options for care. The first is handing care services directly to an agency, which handles all aspects, and the second is allowing the senior and their family to self-direct care, which means they hire, fire and direct their personally chosen care providers.
What Memory Care Services are Covered by Medicaid in Alaska
Alaskans Living Independently Waiver
This HCBS waiver is open to seniors aged 65 and older, as well as those aged 21 through 64 who are living with a physical disability. It provides coordination of care services, as well as respite care, specialized medical equipment and personal care. While the program is designed to help seniors live independently, the services this waiver provides can be provided to those who reside in long-term care facilities.
To qualify for this program, seniors must meet age requirements and they must require a nursing level of care. Additionally, there are asset and income requirements that seniors must meet to be eligible for this program. As of 2022, seniors must have no more than $2,000 in assets, excluding the value of their home and other non-countable effects, and their income can’t exceed $2,382 per month.
To apply, seniors can contact the Division of Senior & Disabilities Services at (800) 478-9996.
Personal Care Services Program
The Personal Care Services Program pays for support to aid the senior’s activities of daily living (ADL), which typically means assistance with bathing, dressing, toileting and general personal care. There are two options open to successful applicants. They can choose to have a professional agency handle every aspect of their care, or take on the role themselves with support and guidance from the Senior and Disabilities Services Division of the Alaska Department of Health.
To qualify for the program, the applicant must have a recognized disability. Although memory loss doesn’t fall within this category, seniors experiencing cognitive decline who also have a recognized disability may be eligible.
Private agencies handle the application process. To get more information and get the contact details of a local agency, call (907) 269-3453.
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Alaska
The monthly income limit is $2,742 for a single applicant (or $32,904 annually), whose assets don’t exceed $2,000. For one or both persons applying from a two-person household, it’s $65,808 and $3,000. However, if one spouse remains at home and the other receives residential care, the remaining spouse can retain assets of up to $148,620.
| 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 |
*Depending on the facility setting, a recipient may not be able to keep income up to this level.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
***Income is limited to $2,742 per month per spouse.
In addition to satisfying income and asset limits, applicants must also pass certain other criteria. They include being:
- A U.S. citizen or legal resident
- A resident of Alaska
- Aged 65 and older
- In need of nursing home levels of care
How to Apply for Medicaid in Alaska
To apply for Medicaid in Alaska, residents can contact their local office of the Seniors and Disabilities Services Division of the Alaska Department of Health. Alternatively, they can contact their local Aging and Disability Resource Center or sign in at MyAlaska, click on “ARIES – Public Assistance” under the “Services for Individuals” heading.
What Information You Will Need
You will be asked for certain key pieces of information and evidence, so it’s prudent to have these ready before you start your application to avoid potential delays. They include:
- Birth certificate
- Social Security number
- Proof of income
- Proof of your Alaskan address
- Proof of legal U.S. residency (such as a passport or permanent residency documents)
- Previous 60 months of bank statements
- Insurance policies for all members of the household
- Title deeds of properties owned
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
As with many other bureaucratic processes, applying for Medicaid can be a challenging process for anyone. Here are some resources that provide information and direct support for free.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Commission on Aging | (907) 465-4793 | With offices statewide staffed by trained counselors, the commission can help seniors apply for Medicaid and keep track of their applications. |
| Healthcare.gov | (800) 318-2596 | Alaskans can apply online directly through Healthcare.gov. It’s a step-by-step application process with helpful online guides and phone support. The Alaskan Department of Health recommends this route as it’s often the speediest. |
| Benefits.gov | (800) 770-5650 | This is the federal government website for all national benefits. It’s an extensive source of information about Medicaid for seniors and families who prefer to do their own research before contacting local sources, such as Healthcare.gov. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Alaska?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Alaska. As was mentioned above, this doesn’t apply to Memory Care received in a Nursing Home. Since it is the most common to receive memory care in a “social setting” (such as an assisted living facility), Medicare won’t be a viable financial assistance option for most seniors who need Memory Care. However, Medicare will 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 Memory Care in a nursing home, and for Medicare-related resources, see our guide to Nursing Homes in Alaska.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Alaska
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 Memory Care 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 Memory Care. |
| 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 Memory Care. 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 Memory Care. 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 Memory Care will not typically be eligible to sign up for a LTC insurance policy. |
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Alaska
There are many resources in Alaska 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.
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Alaska 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska 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. |
| Alaska Senior Benefits Program | 800-478-7778 | The Senior Benefits Program offers qualified seniors monthly cash payments of $76 to $250 to assist with living costs such as utility bills and household expenses. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Alaska 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Adults with Physical & Developmental Disabilities Waiver (APDD) | 855-565-2017 | Alaska offers the APDD waiver to adults over the age of 21 who display a disability caused physical impairment and require a nursing home level of care. Eligible seniors can receive assistance with home modifications and several care services to remain at home or in assisted living. |
| Alaskans Living Independently Waiver (ALI) | 855-565-2017 | The ALI waiver is available to seniors over the age of 65 or those with disabilities requiring a nursing home level of care. The waiver covers care services to assist seniors with remaining in their homes or an assisted living facility, including home modifications, durable medical equipment and meal services. |
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 Alaska seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Meals on Wheels | Alaskans over the age of 60 may qualify for the Meals on Wheels program. Those eligible can receive weekly deliveries that often include a hot meal and the option of frozen meals to sustain them throughout the week. Each location sets its own delivery dates, the maximum number of meals allowed and the maximum delivery period. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Alaska 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Access Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Loan Closet | 800-770-4488 | Access Alaska provides adaptive equipment and assistive technology to disabled Alaskan seniors through the organization's Durable Medical Equipment Loan Closet. The program covers all parts of the state, including those who live in rural areas. |
| Alaska Assistive Technology Acquisition Assistance Program | 800-723-2852 | The ATLA has several programs to provide free medical devices and technology to aging Alaskans. The ReUse Program cleans and refurbishes donated assistive technology devices. It then passes this equipment along to any Alaskans in need. The TechAbility Program offers lifetime equipment loans to disabled Alaskans who are Alaska Mental Health Trust beneficiaries. Seniors experiencing hearing and vision loss can take advantage of the Alaska Can Connect program that offers a variety of applications, software and hardware to assist with communication. |
| Alaska Center for Children and Adults (ACCA) | 907-456-4003 | The ACCA offers adaptive mobility equipment for free or at a reduced cost to seniors in need. It requires participants to put down a deposit based on the type of equipment borrowed. The program returns the deposit if the participant returns the equipment within three months. |
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 Alaska have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska AHFC Senior Access Program (SAP) | 907-330-8275 | Seniors eligible for the AHFC Alaska Senior Access Program can receive financial assistance for necessary home modifications to improve accessibility for those with disabilities or age-associated restrictions. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Alaska 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Mat-Su Senior Services | 907-745-5454 | Mat-Su is a non-profit organization that provides a range of services to help seniors to live independently in their own homes. To be eligible for the services, seniors need to be aged 60 or older and meet certain income requirements. Some of the services offered by volunteers include transport, adult day services, meals, chore assistance, respite services and family caregiver support. The majority of the services are offered for free but donations are always appreciated. The services that carry a fee are eligible for financial assistance if required. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Alaska 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska 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 Alaska 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Senior Tax Exemption | Qualifying seniors can reduce their property tax burdens by applying for the Senior Tax Exemption. If approved, the program designates up to $150,000 of their home's value as non-taxable. |
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. Alaska 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Heating Assistance Program (HAP) | 907-269-5777 | HAP offers Alaska residents a one-time annual payment to offset heating costs. The program pays the heating vendor directly and applies it to the applicant's account as a credit. Participants can also apply the subsidy toward any deposits needed to establish service in subsidized rentals that include heat in rental costs but do not include cooking gas or electric. |
Veteran's Services
Alaska 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska VA Benefits and Healthcare | Alaska's Veterans Services helps senior veterans access the essential benefits and support services designed to help them thrive in their elder years. Those who meet residency and service criteria can turn to the various vet centers and outpatient clinics or access the VA health care system to meet their medical needs. Veterans Services can also help vets gain access to their specialized disability benefits, navigate their pensions or locate customized housing options. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Alaska
Residential memory care services in Alaska are largely delivered in assisted living facilities, which are required to comply with a number of rules and regulations around staff screening, medication delivery and safety. These facilities are licensed by the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Health Care Services.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Facilities provide assistance with activities of daily living, recreational and social activities, accommodations and meals. If the facility has a licensed nurse on staff, limited nursing tasks may be performed under the supervision of the licensee. Facilities may not admit residents who require skilled nursing care for 45 days or more, or who have a mental illness that requires treatment in a specialized facility. |
| Care Plan Requirements | A comprehensive care plan must be prepared within 30 days of admission, and approved by the resident and/or their legal representative. Care plans must be reviewed at least once per year, or more frequently if the resident presents major behavioral and/or health changes. |
| Medication Management Requirements | Residents may self-administer medications with the assistance of staff. Only licensed nursing staff may administer medications in accordance with rules established by the state Board of Nursing. |
| Staff Screening Requirements | Prior to providing direct care services, staff must successfully pass a criminal background check and a tuberculosis test. |
| Staff Training Requirements | Caregivers must complete at least 12 hours of continuing education related to dementia care annually, and at least one staff with current first aid and CPR certification must be on duty at all times. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Alaskans Living Independently is a Medicaid home and community-based services waiver that funds memory care services for eligible Medicaid beneficiaries. |
| Reporting Abuse | Anyone who suspects or witnesses the abuse of an elder in Alaska should file a report with Alaska’s Adult Protective Services or contact local law enforcement. Concerns regarding the quality of care in an assisted living facility should be reported to the State of Alaska, Long Term Care Ombudsman Office. |
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