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Memory Care in Connecticut
The state of Connecticut is home to over 3.6 million residents, of whom 18% are seniors aged 65 and older. This demographic is at a growing risk of developing Alzheimer’s and dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that these conditions currently impact the lives of 1 in 9 seniors in America. In Connecticut, the need for dementia care is growing as rates of Alzheimer’s are on the rise. According to the CDC, the number of Alzheimer’s-related deaths in the state increased from 1,308 in 2016 to 1,450 in 2020, which is an increase of nearly 11%.
One of the many dementia resources available to seniors in Connecticut is the care offered by memory care facilities. The communities offer a safe, friendly environment where individuals with cognitive impairments have access to the care and support of specially trained, 24-hour care staff. The following guide provides information about memory care in Connecticut, including how much these service cost and where seniors can go for support, along with some of the pros and cons of senior living in the New England area.
The Cost of Memory Care in Connecticut
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 Connecticut and its 26 cities.
Note: Memory care is available in assisted living facilities, but because this type of care is specialized, it generally costs 20-30% more than standard assisted living services. No authoritative data sources provide cost information for dementia care, so the following costs are estimated by adding 25% to the assisted living rates in the Genworth 2021 Cost of Care Survey.
Seniors in Connecticut pay approximately $6,411 per month for memory care services, which is about $800 more than the national rate of $5,625. In New York, care costs tend to be a little more competitive at $5,725 per month, but in other nearby states, fees tend to be considerably costlier. Seniors in New Jersey pay $8,119 for services, and in Massachusetts, rates are comparable at $8,125. In Rhode Island, memory care rates are among the highest in the nation at $8,533.
The Cost of Memory Care in Connecticut's Top Cities
The cost of memory care varies widely based on a senior's location within the state. With a monthly average of $10,915, Norwalk has some of the highest costs. Danbury is also at the higher end of the range, averaging $8,545 monthly. Hartford and Stamford are more affordable, with monthly costs averaging $5,970 and $6,598, respectively.
Connecticut
$7,257
Danbury
$8,545
Norwalk
$10,915
Stamford
$6,598
Hartford
$5,970
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Connecticut
Senior care is just one of many services that are getting more expensive due to inflation. Although the cost of memory care in Connecticut decreased by 0.72% between 2022 and 2023, recent reports indicate that it's likely to jump 19% by the end of 2024. Based on current prices, costs in Connecticut are 35.2% higher than the U.S. average.</p><p>In nearby states, costs have increased across the board. Massachusetts residents are paying 17.9% more for memory care, while New Hampshire's costs have risen by 12.6%. Costs rose by 9.5% in Vermont and 22.9% in New York.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | $7,310 | $7,257 | $7,637 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Massachusetts | $7,570 | $7,706 | $7,782 |
| New Hampshire | $6,364 | $7,169 | $7,635 |
| New York | $5,244 | $6,449 | $6,416 |
| Vermont | $8,800 | $9,639 | $9,882 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
In Connecticut, memory care costs an average of $7,257 per month due to the specialized services provided to residents. At the opposite end of the spectrum, independent living costs an average of $3,187 per month. This type of senior care comes with fewer services and amenities, which is why it's less costly. Assisted living, which comes with meals, housekeeping services, 24/7 supervision and personal assistance, costs an average of $5,919 per month.
Assisted Living
$5,919
Memory Care
$7,257
Independent Living
$3,187
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Connecticut?
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 Connecticut.
Connecticut’s Medicaid program, called HUSKY Health, provides health insurance coverage to all state residents who meet need-based criteria. While HUSKY Health has several benefits packages to meet the needs of varying populations, all members obtain basic health care services, such as physical and occupational therapy, preventative care, hearing aids and durable medical equipment. Those aged 65 and over may qualify for HUSKY C, which has additional benefits to meet seniors’ unique needs.
HUSKY Health doesn’t cover memory care services directly, but it pays for many services under the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders. CHCPE pays for a range of home and community-based long-term care services and contains the Assisted Living Services Program. Unlike Husky Health, which is an entitlement available to everyone who qualifies, CHCPE has limited enrollment slots, and eligible individuals may have to be put on a wait list before obtaining coverage.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Connecticut?
The Assisted Living Services Program provides skilled nursing and personal care services to those living in assisted living facilities, officially called managed residential communities, including those that provide specialized dementia services. The program is comprised of four packages, each of which covers services, such as:
- Personal care attendant services
- Care transitions
- Assistive technology
- Housekeeping and linen service
- Laundry
- One meal daily
- 24-hour security
- Emergency transportation
- Wellness services
The level of coverage an individual receives through this program depends on their functional needs. There are four service packages, including:
- Occasional Personal Service: 1-3.75 hours per week of personal care, plus nursing visits as needed
- Limited Personal Service: 4-8.75 hours per week of personal care, plus nursing visits as needed
- Moderate Personal Service: 9-14.75 hours per week of personal care, plus nursing visits as needed
- Extensive Personal Services: 15-25 hours per week of personal care, plus nursing visits as needed
Depending on the individual’s income, they may be required to pay up to 9% of their care costs. They must also live in a state-funded assisted living facility that accepts payment from Medicaid. While the program covers transition costs, which may include deposits and other fees associated with moving out of a nursing home and into a memory care facility, it doesn’t cover ongoing room and board costs.
Memory Care Waiver Programs in Connecticut
Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders
The CHCPE Assisted Living Services Program is designed to help older adults with extensive care needs reside in a memory care facility as an alternative to nursing home care. It pays for a range of services to support the individual’s comfort, safety and quality of life, including assistive technology, preventative services and attendant care.
To qualify for this coverage, applicants must be at least 65 years old, and they must be referred to or eligible for this program by meeting functional and financial requirements. Single applicants can have a gross monthly income of up to $2,523, and they may have up to $1,600 in countable assets. If the applicant is married, their spouse’s income and assets don’t count towards these limits. Applicants must also require assistance with essential daily activities, such as bathing, personal grooming, toileting and taking medications.
Seniors can apply for the Assisted Living Services program by enrolling online at the ConneCT website. Alternately, they can obtain a paper application by downloading and printing one online or calling the Department of Social Services Client Information Line and Benefits Center at (855) 626-6632 and asking for a mailed application. Once they’ve filled out the application, they can deliver it in person or mail it to their nearest Department of Social Services field office. On average, the approval process takes 45 days.
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Connecticut
To be eligible for Medicaid in Connecticut, individuals must meet income and asset guidelines. Income guidelines are $2,742 per month for individuals and $5,584 for couples. In addition to these limits, single applicants can have up to $409 in unearned income, and married applicants can have up to $818. Unearned income may include pensions, VA benefits, Social Security benefits and interest from investments.
There are also requirements regarding assets. Individuals are allowed up to $1,600 in assets and $3,200 for couples. Non-applicant spouses may retain up to $148,620 in assets.
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $32,904 | $1,600 | |
| Two People | 1 | $32,904** | $1,600 | $148,620 |
| Two People | 2 | $65,808 | $3,200*** |
*Depending on the facility setting, a recipient may not be able to keep income up to this level.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
***Assets are limited to $1,600 per spouse.
Along with meeting financial guidelines, applicants must be at least 65 years old, legal U.S. citizens or residents and permanent residents of Connecticut.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Connecticut
Seniors have several options for applying for Medicaid. They can submit an application online through the ConneCT website. Seniors may also print out a paper application or request one over the phone by calling the Department of Social Services Client Information Line and Benefits Center at (855) 626-6632. Once they’ve completed the application, they can deliver it in person or mail it to their nearest Department of Social Services field office.
Information You Will Need
Before applying for Medicaid, seniors must be able to provide documentation to prove they qualify for services. These include:
- Proof of age
- Social Security number
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency
- Proof of Connecticut residency
- Verification of assets, including bank account statements, life insurance policies and prepaid funeral contracts
- Marital status
- Verification of deductions, such as medical premiums
- Verification of spouse’s income, assets and shelter costs
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Seniors in Connecticut have access to several resources to help them determine whether they qualify for Medicaid coverage, get the most from their benefits and resolve problems with their coverage. The following resources provide comprehensive information on eligibility and enrollment, finding qualified providers and disputing denied coverage.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| DSS Client Information Line and Benefits Center | (855) 626-6632 | The DSS Client Information Line and Benefits Center serves as a single point of contact for accessing comprehensive information on HUSKY Health and CHCPE. It has an interactive voice-response telephone system that provides prompt benefits information, as well as a Benefits Center that’s staffed during normal business hours with representatives who provide personalized assistance. |
| Connecticut Medical Assistance Program | Online Only | The Connecticut Medical Assistance Program provides comprehensive information on HUSKY Health and the Assisted Living Services Program, including how to qualify for services, program benefits and how to appeal denied claims. The website also publishes current information on public policies that affect Medicaid coverage. |
| Connecticut State Department of Aging and Disability Services | (860) 424-5055 | The Connecticut State Department of Aging and Disability Services houses the Aging and Disabilities Resource Centers, which feature a No Wrong Door system to help older adults get the services they qualify for. Through this department, seniors access benefits screenings, options counseling and information and assistance with accessing dementia services in the community. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Connecticut?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Connecticut. 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 Connecticut.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Connecticut
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 Connecticut
There are many resources in Connecticut 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut Area Agencies on Aging | Connecticut's network of Area Agencies on Aging provides a wide range of free services and programs to enhance the quality of life for seniors. Practical support includes assistance applying for public benefits, information about long-term care options, medical transportation, health insurance counseling and caregiver support. Home-delivered meal programs and congregate meal sites ensure older adults have access to nutritious food. Various initiatives, including exercise classes, fall prevention workshops, preventative health screenings and respite care, foster senior well-being and independence. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Connecticut 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut 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, Connecticut 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) | 800-445-5394 | Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) offers aid to qualifying older adults who live at home, in adult foster care or an assisted living facility. It aims to help you age in place rather than moving into a nursing home by providing 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 Connecticut seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut 211 - Food Pantry | 800-203-1234 | Connecticut 211 is a state information line that connects people in need of groceries with agencies and assistance programs that offer short-term assistance with food. Food banks throughout the state have their own eligibility requirements, which usually include income limits and proof of residency. Home delivered meals are available for homebound seniors who are unable to drive or prepare their own meals. These same organizations also deliver to senior day care sites and provide holidays meals. |
| Connecticut Elderly Nutrition Program | The Elderly Nutrition Program in Connecticut is a state food-assistance program that provides meals at community locations throughout the state, including senior centers, housing facilities for older adults, schools, churches and similar settings. It also offers home-delivered meals for isolated or homebound seniors age 60 and older who meet state and federal eligibility, including those who are low income, live in rural locations, have limited English proficiency or are at risk of losing their independence. | |
| Connecticut Meals on Wheels | Connecticut Meals on Wheels is a diverse program serving seniors throughout the state with healthy, delicious, home-cooked meals at their residences and community meal sites nearby. Eligible residents have diminished mobility, making shopping for food and preparing meals challenging. The nutritious food meets dietary needs and follows cultural and ethnic requirements. The program is available on a sliding fee scale that varies from no cost to full price, depending on income. | |
| Connecticut Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Connecticut's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides eligible older adults with electronic benefits transfer cards they can use in participating local stores |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Connecticut 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut Embrace Hope Expect Change - The ALS Association Connecticut Chapter | 203-874-5050 | Older adults in Connecticut can contact Embrace Hope Expect Change to access a wide range of free or lowcost medical equipment. Provisions include shower chairs, raised toilet seats, canes, crutches and manual wheelchairs. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Connecticut seniors who meet certain income criteria can apply to local resources to help them pay for prescription drugs. Eligible residents can also receive assistance through health insurance and other programs to access free or discounted medical services.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut HUSKY C | 800-842-2159 | All seniors aged over 65 are entitled to health care insurance and prescription drug coverage from Medicaid through Connecticut's HUSKY C program. Benefits include some dental and doctor's care, most prescription drugs, home care, hospital care, nursing home care and foreign language interpreter services. |
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 Connecticut have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut Area Agency on Aging (AAA) Home Modification and Repair Services | 203-785-8533 | Connecticut Area Agency on Aging offers a Home Modification Repair Services program that provides free home modifications that allow seniors to stay independent at home more safely. This assistance may offer the addition of grab bars and handrails in the bathroom, or it may include modifications to make a home more accessible to a senior in a wheelchair. These may include ramps or widening hallways and doorways. Seniors can also apply to receive help paying for minor repairs. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Connecticut 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut Long Term Care Ombudsman Program | 866-388-1888 | The Connecticut Long Term Care Ombudsman Program helps individuals access the information they need to obtain quality care in long-term care facilities. Through the ombudsman, residents can learn about their rights and find out what to do if they're not getting the services in their care plans. The ombudsman can work to solve complaints on behalf of residents and families and connect individuals with local resident and family councils, when available. They can also investigate concerns of abuse and neglect and file reports with the appropriate authorities. |
| Connecticut Statewide Legal Services | 800-453-3320 | Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut has legal professionals who help older adults aged 60 and over navigate civil legal matters, including wills and assigning powers of attorney. The organization can help individuals apply for public benefits that may help cover assisted living expenses, including Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability Insurance and Medicaid. Services are free and confidential. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Connecticut 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut 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 Connecticut 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut Elderly/Disabled (Circuit Breaker) Tax Relief Program | 860-418-6290 | Seniors in Connecticut can access up to $1,000 for a single household or $1,250 for dual households for property tax relief. |
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. Connecticut 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) | The CEAP helps low-income Connecticans heat their homes. In general, it covers heating bills from $410 to $1,015, depending on household size, income, and whether or not a vulnerable person lives there. |
Veteran's Services
Connecticut 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut VA Benefits and Health Care | Connecticut's VA Benefits and Health Care offers services designed to support qualified senior veterans. The main medical center is in West Haven, with additional health clinics throughout the state, including in Danbury, Waterbury and Stamford. Services provided to veterans include medical care, disability benefits, in-home care, assistance with daily living activities, home-delivered meals, adult day care and assistive technology through the Veteran's Directed Care Program. Eligible veterans are those who are 65 years or older. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Connecticut
In Connecticut, the Department of Public Health licenses and regulates assisted living services agencies that provide memory care services, which are officially referred to as Alzheimer’s special care units. The Department has regulations in place regarding scope of care, staffing and public funding. While individual facilities aren’t licensed, they are required to register with the Department.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Memory care facilities are required to provide three meals daily, living accommodations, regularly scheduled housekeeping and laundry services, transportation, social and recreational programs and round-the-clock security and emergency call systems. They also have special programs for residents with dementia and security measures in place to prevent wandering. |
| Care Plans | Within seven days of admission, a registered nurse must develop a care plan that addresses the resident’s problems and needs, the types of services they must have, prescribed medications, treatments and required nursing services. This care plan must be reviewed as often as the resident’s condition warrants. |
| Medication Management | Medications must be administered by a licensed nurse or pre-poured by a licensed nurse for residents who self-administer their medication. With approval from the resident or their representative, the facility is permitted to monitor self-administration, including providing medication reminders, verifying that the medication was taken and opening the medication’s packaging. All medications must be stored in the resident’s unit. |
| Staffing | A supervisor, who must be a registered nurse, must be available at least 20 hours per week for every 10 or fewer residents. While a 24-hour awake staff isn’t required for every facility, it may be necessary in facilities with residents who require around-the-clock care or monitoring. The Department doesn’t require a minimum staffing ratio, but a sufficient number of caregivers must be available at all times to meet residents’ needs. Direct care staff must receive eight hours annually of dementia-specific training and two hours of training annually on pain recognition and pain management techniques. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Connecticut’s Medicaid program has two waivers that cover memory care expenses: the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders and the Comprehensive Waiver. |
| Reporting Abuse | Suspected abuse can be reported by seniors, their families or memory care staff to the Connecticut Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program by calling 866-388-1888. |
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