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Memory Care in Arizona
Arizona is home to 7,359,197 people, 18.3% of whom are seniors. The Grand Canyon state is a popular retirement destination, and its growing senior population has increased the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia statewide. Between 2016 and 2020, Alzheimer’s deaths in Arizona increased by 7.69%. Overall, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, the number of Arizonans living with Alzheimer’s is expected to reach 200,000 by 2025.
Thanks to its large senior population, Arizona has many options for memory care and support for seniors with dementia. Memory care communities are residential facilities that house seniors in the later stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia. They’re designed to be safe and secure and offer residents a compassionate environment. In many communities, enrichment opportunities such as pet and music therapies are used to improve quality of life and slow cognitive decline. This guide can be used to evaluate memory care options in Arizona, compare costs and access resources for help.
The Cost of Memory Care in Arizona
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. 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 memory care in Arizona and its 19 cities.
The Cost of Memory Care in Arizona's Top Cities
As location often plays a factor in the cost of senior care. For instance, Phoenix tends to be on the pricier side with an average monthly cost of $6,725, around $1,300 above the median cost for the state. More budget-friendly alternatives can be found in Tucson and Peoria, where monthly costs average $4,181 and $5,017, respectively. Mesa offers an even more cost-effective choice, with memory care costs averaging at $4,407 per month.
Arizona
$5,401
Phoenix
$6,725
Tucson
$4,181
Mesa
$4,407
Peoria
$5,017
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Arizona
Inflation has significantly affected the cost of senior living in Arizona. Memory care costs have risen by roughly 15% between 2022 and 2023 ($4,698 to $5,401), which is particularly significant as the U.S average has only increased by 10.4%
The impact of inflation on costs in Arizona has also been much higher than in nearby states. California's rates saw a hike of 3.5%, while rates in Nevada increased by 4.4% and New Mexico's rose by just over 5%. Utah shows a different story entirely, with costs decreasing by about 3.7% during the same period.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $4,698 | $5,401 | $6,209 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| California | $5,668 | $5,866 | $6,453 |
| Nevada | $4,284 | $4,474 | $4,712 |
| Utah | $4,595 | $4,425 | $4,997 |
| New Mexico | $4,943 | $5,214 | $5,553 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Different types of senior living typically include a range of services, amenities, programs and room options. This results in a difference in the cost of care. For instance, independent living provides low levels of personal care and assistance, so prices are the lowest at $3,009. Assisted living offers enhanced services and daily assistance, costing up to $4,420. Memory care also provides similar services, but care is even more specialized to support the unique needs of residents with dementia. As a result, average rates are $ 5,401 per month.
Assisted Living
$4,420
Memory Care
$5,401
Independent Living
$3,009
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Arizona?
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 Arizona.
Yes, some services are covered through Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), the name for Arizona’s Medicaid program. Instead of waivers, the Arizona Long-Term Care System (ALTCS) provides care and home and community-based services on a managed care model. The ALTCS is an entitlement program, which means all who meet the eligibility requirements receive assistance. Once an applicant is accepted, the individual meets with a case worker to determine the best health care plan that covers his or her individual needs.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Arizona?
AHCCCS doesn’t cover the cost of room and board. Instead, it covers the cost of personal care services, including grooming, bathing, toileting, housekeeping, meal prep, transportation, shopping and companionship. In most cases, it also covers some medical costs while in memory care, including behavioral health, dental care, care coordination assistance, home nursing and hospice care.
How to Know If You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Arizona
To meet Medicaid eligibility in Arizona, seniors must have an income no greater than 300% of the SSI Federal Benefit Rate (FBR). As of 2023, this rate is $32,904 per year or $2,742 per month with assets totaling no more than $2,000. If both spouses apply, these rates are doubled. If only one spouse applies, the spouse remaining at home may be entitled to a Minimum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance (MMMNA) from the applicant spouse under the Spousal Impoverishment Act. In addition, the asset limit for a non-applicant spouse is $148,620.
2023 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Arizona
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $32,904 | $2,000 | |
| Two Person | 1 | $32,904** | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two Person | 2 | $65,808*** | $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.
***Income is limited to $2,742 per month per spouse.
****Assets are limited to $2,000 per spouse
Other eligibility requirements include:
- Be a U.S. Citizen
- Be a resident of Arizona
- Be 65 and older or have a recognized disability
- Have a level of care required by a skilled nursing home
How to Apply for Medicaid in Arizona
To apply for Medicaid in Arizona, seniors may contact the ALTCS at (888) 621-6880 or connect virtually through the Arizona Department of Economic Security website. Seniors may create an account at Health-e-Arizona Plus and submit an application online or download and print the application and return it by fax to (202) 690-7442 or through the mail at the Arizona Department of Economic Security, Family Assistance Administration, P.O. Box 19009, Phoenix, Arizona 85005-9009. To submit the application in person, search for an assistor online for local contact information.
Information You Will Need
- Proof of citizenship
- Government issued ID
- Alien registration cards
- Social Security numbers
- Copy of birth certificate
- Address verification
- Income verification for the past 60 days
- Proof of medical insurance
- Proof of asset ownership
- Bank statements for the past 60 days
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Several organizations offer assistance to seniors signing up for Medicaid benefits. These free or low-cost services help seniors navigate their choices and make it easier to sign up for a plan that best suits their needs.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Medicaid Planning Services (AMPS) | (602) 787-9646 | AMPS provides trained counselors who offer unbiased recommendations on Medicaid and the available options. They also help locate lesser known options, including the Aid and Attendance Housing Benefit for veterans and other public benefits. |
| Senior Planning | (888) 891-1516 | Senior Planning is a free service that answers questions about the Medicaid application process and helps seniors locate the care services they need. |
| Cover Arizona | (800) 344-3536 | Cover Arizona is a network of over 900 members that work to ensure eligible Arizona residents have health care coverage. The network has counselors who can answer questions regarding Medicaid, Medicare and supplemental insurance options, including prescription coverage. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Arizona?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Arizona. 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 Arizona.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Arizona
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 Arizona
There are many resources in Arizona 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.
| Resource | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Alzheimer’s Consortium | (602) 839-6525 | The Alzheimer’s Consortium is the number one resource on Alzheimer’s research. The group encourages early detection and research to help stop or slow the disease. Annual conferences are held to create public awareness and to increase donations. |
| Banner Alzheimer’s Institute | (602) 747-4483 | The Banner Alzheimer’s Institute works to end Alzheimer’s through research, chemical trials and education. The institute also offers patient care and provides support information to seniors with cognitive impairments. |
| Area Agencies on Aging | (877) 600-2722 | Arizona has seven Area Agencies on Aging. These agencies offer programs and services that enhance the lives of seniors in their regions. Services include nutrition counseling, meals, caregiver support, case management, information and referrals, insurance counseling and transportation. |
| Arizona Long-Term Care Ombudsman | (602) 542-6454 | The long-term care ombudsman is a program that advocates for seniors who are in long-term care facilities. The ombudsman listens to complaints against facilities and works to resolve the issue. They also make annual visits to communities to ensure they are abiding by the laws and regulations set by the state government. |
| Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter | (800) 272-3900 | The Alzheimer’s Association provides education and support to seniors, family members and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The association also serves as an advocate toward the advancement of research, early detection and better care. |
| Legal Services Assistance | (877) 600-2722 | Arizona’s legal services program offers advice, information and assistance to seniors aged 60 and older. The program is for those with low incomes to receive the legal help they otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford with creation of wills, designating powers of attorney, appointing guardianships and fighting for elder rights. |
| Arizona Senior Centers | (602) 534-7436 | Arizona senior centers provide a safe, secure place for seniors to socialize and take part in a variety of activities. Services include congregate meals, transportation, health screenings, arts and crafts, fitness and group activities. |
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Area Agencies on Aging | Arizona's Area Agencies on Aging provide support and advocacy for older residents, empowering them to remain in their homes where desirable. Accessible remotely and at a selection of statewide locations, they connect senior Arizonans, along with families and caregivers, to a range of support services. These include home-delivered meals and assistance with self-managing chronic health conditions. A 24-hour accessible senior helpline is also available at (888)-783-7500. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Arizona 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona 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, Arizona 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) | The Arizona Long Term Care System covers a comprehensive array of supportive services for individuals who are aged or disabled. This program pays for nursing home care and community-based alternatives that can help you remain in your own home or in a residential setting of your choice. It covers in-home care, personal care attendants, assisted living, adult day health care and other 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 Arizona seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Commodity Senior Food Program (CSFP) | Arizona's Commodity Senior Food Program serves the needs of low-income seniors in the state through monthly deliveries or pickups of nutritious foods. Packages available through the CSFP include canned meats, fruits and vegetables as well as milk, cereal, rice and pasta. The food for the program is purchased by Arizona from the USDA. Seniors must meet income qualifications to participate. | |
| Arizona Coordinated Hunger Relief Program | The Arizona Department of Economic Security Coordinated Hunger Relief Program coordinates food assistance from various federal, state and local organizations to maximize resources and ensure that the nutritional needs of poor and vulnerable seniors are met. The program also administers The Emergency Food Assistance Program that distributes food from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to low-income residents, including seniors. To qualify, a senior's gross household income should not exceed $25,142 per year for one person or $33,874 for two. | |
| Arizona Meals on Wheels | Arizona seniors can access nutritious meals through the Arizona Meals on Wheels program. Those unable to travel can have pre-prepared meals delivered to their door. While making deliveries, Meals on Wheels volunteers also provide much-needed companionship and safety checks. Meals are generally provided on a sliding fee scale depending on individual circumstances. Older residents who are mobile can attend congregate meals held in senior centers, cafes and other venues throughout the state, where seniors gather together for socialization. | |
| Arizona Senior Farmers Markets Nutrition Program (SFMNP) | The Arizona Senior Farmers Markets Nutrition Program provides vouchers for seniors to use to buy fresh food at their local farmer's market. Seniors qualify for this program based on income, and they must be age 60 or older to apply. Some locations that participate in SFMNP offer Community Supported Agriculture boxes of produce, which removes the need to travel to and shop at the farmer's market. | |
| Arizona C.R.I.T. Food Distribution Program | 928-669-1283 | The C.R.I.T. Food Distribution Program in Parker, AZ, serves low-income seniors and others in the Colorado River Indian Tribes Reservation area, including Riverside and San Bernardino counties in California and La Paz County in Arizona. The nutrition assistance program provides USDA-approved foods and fresh-grown produce to supplement groceries for the month. Eligible elderly and disabled residents may qualify for home meal delivery. Recipients must complete an application, and food distribution is available on weekdays by appointment. |
| Arizona The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) | The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a federally supported program that provides free emergency food packages to low-income individuals and seniors in times of need. In each monthly food box, seniors receive shelf-stable foods, including canned or dried fruits, vegetables, pasta, bread and bottled juices. Seniors must have a total household income of less than 185% of the federal poverty line to be eligible for emergency food assistance, and they can find many participating distributors across Arizona. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Arizona 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Loans for Assistive Technology (AZLAT) | 800-477-9921 | Operated by Northern Arizona University, this assistive technology program stocks approximately 4,000 AT and AT-related products, including items that help with hearing and vision loss and functional needs. |
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 Arizona have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Emergency Repairs and Housing Rehabilitation | The Arizona Department of Housing provides community block grants to help fund emergency repairs in designated areas. | |
| Arizona Weatherization Assistance Program | The Weatherization Assistance Program covers the cost of energy-efficient upgrades and home improvements. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Arizona 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Community Legal Services | 602-258-3434 | Seniors and low-income adults can access advice and representation for legal issues here. On a pro-bono basis, attorneys with this agency can help seniors resolve tax issues with the IRS and access health care and public benefits. This organization also runs a resource center with self-help information and forms. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Arizona 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Complete Health Avondale Resource Center | 623-333-2741 | Avondale residents aged 60 and older enjoy several fun activities and events at this community center. Participants can sign up for fitness classes, bingo, raffles and more. Transportation service is available to and from the campus. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Arizona 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona 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 Arizona 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Senior Property Tax Freeze | The Arizona Department of Revenue allows seniors to request a property valuation protection option on their primary residence. This program will freeze the assessed value of a senior's home for three years. Tax rates may fluctuate based on local regulations. Applications are processed by your County Assessor. |
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. Arizona 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | 866-494-1981 | LIHEAP provides one payment per 12-month period to income-eligible families. Funds can help with unpaid energy bills, deposits and some energy-efficient energy bills, deposits and some energy-efficient |
Veteran's Services
startCase(Arizona)} 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona VA Benefits and Health Care | Arizona VA Benefits and Health Care is a support network offering extensive services to senior veterans. It provides comprehensive health care solutions, including mental health and PTSD support. The program assists with disability compensation, pensions and home loans to help seniors have the financial support they need. It also assists with burials and memorials, demonstrating its commitment to the veteran community. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Arizona
In Arizona, memory support services are generally provided in assisted living facilities that have added security measures. These facilities are governed by the Division of Public Health Licensing Services. The division enforces specific laws and regulations to ensure a safe, enriching environment for residents, including care plan requirements, staff training and Medicaid coverage.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Memory care communities provide supervision, personal care services, behavioral health services and ancillary care. Along with care service, facilities provide three meals and snacks daily that meet each resident’s dietary needs. When applying for licensing, facilities must provide a detailed outline of the services they provide. |
| Care Plans | Within 14 days of a resident’s admission, the facility’s manager must complete a care plan that outlines things like the resident’s medical or health problems; the level of service the resident expects to receive; the amount, type and frequency of services; necessary nursing or medication administration services; and planned strategies and actions for managing psychosocial behaviors. The care plan must be reviewed and updated within 14 days of a significant change in the resident’s physical, cognitive or functional condition. At a minimum, plans must be reviewed every 12 months for those receiving supervisory care services, every six months for those receiving personal care services and every three months for those receiving directed care services. |
| Medication Management | Memory care facilities that provide medication administration must ensure that medication is properly stored; reviewed and approved by a medical practitioner, nurse or pharmacist and administered to the resident only as prescribed. If a resident refuses medication, the refusal must be documented in their medical record. Under the direction of a medical practitioner, residents are permitted to self-administer their medication. |
| Staffing | Memory care communities are required to have managers, caregivers and assistant caregivers on staff. All staff members must be capable of providing assisted living services, behavioral care and ancillary services as needed. No staff minimum ratios are enforced, but sufficient staff must be present at all times to provide the level of care needed for residents. At least one manager or caregiver must be awake at all times. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, the state’s Medicaid program, covers memory care services directly through its ALTCS program. This long-term care program has in-network healthcare providers, hospitals, nursing homes and assisted living facilities that program participants must receive care from to have costs covered. |
| Reporting Abuse | Arizona’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman fields claims regarding substandard care or treatment of assisted living and memory care residents. Complaints and concerns can be made by residents, family members, facility visitors and staff members. To report abuse, neglect or exploitation, Arizona residents should call the state office at 602-542-6454. |
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