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Memory Care in Idaho
According to the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare, 27,000 older adults in the Gem State have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. By 2025, this number is projected to reach 33,000, an increase of over 20%. Alzheimer’s disease is Idaho’s sixth leading cause of death. Fortunately, the state offers a number of resources for dementia patients as well as the friends and relatives who care for them.
In 2021, state legislators formed the Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) initiative to raise awareness and promote early detection. This program is a joint effort between the Idaho Commission on Aging, the Center for the Study of Aging at Boise State University and national organizations such as AARP. Along with specialized memory care facilities, which cost $4,798 per month, these resources can improve seniors’ quality of life and provide a helping hand to family caregivers.
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, you’ll find information about long-term care prices in Idaho. We provide a detailed look at the state’s Medicaid program and other ways to pay for care along with a directory of free and low-cost services sponsored by government agencies and nonprofits.
The Cost of Memory Care in Idaho
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 Idaho and its 8 cities.
The Cost of Memory Care in Idaho's Top Cities
Memory care costs in Idaho's most-populated cities fluctuate greatly, confirming the wisdom of comparing fees between locations. Meridian's median monthly fee is $5,900, while 20 minutes east in Boise, it's $5,525 for relatively similar services. Travel 20 minutes west of Meridian to Nampa, and the median fee drops to $4,210, a difference of $1,315 per month. Idaho Falls is also more affordable than the state average at $4,919.
Idaho
$5,170
Boise
$5,525
Idaho Falls
$4,919
Nampa
$4,210
Meridian
$5,900
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Idaho
Inflation's effects on senior living facility operating costs have noticeably altered memory care fees. Idaho's 2023 median monthly fee of $5,170 is 21.5% more than 2022's $4,255. This is more than double the national average increase of 10.4%, from $4,863 in 2022 to $5,369 in 2023.
Bordering states provide a tale of two halves: Oregon has seen a dramatic 30.8% rise, while Washington is a more bearable 9.8%. However, Utah and Montana's median fees fell by 3.7% and 3.5%, respectively. Financial volatility suggests that families should plan for memory care with even more prudence.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | $4,255 | $5,170 | $5,151 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Oregon | $5,734 | $7,501 | $7,944 |
| Washington | $6,277 | $6,893 | $7,981 |
| Utah | $4,595 | $4,425 | $4,997 |
| Montana | $6,033 | $5,822 | $6,200 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Factors such as specialized staff training and staff-to-resident ratio contribute to the costs for different types of senior care. Consequently, the gap between Idaho's memory care and independent living communities is wide, with an average cost of $5,170 for the former and $2,840 for the latter. Assisted living is somewhere in the middle at $4,388 per month.
Assisted Living
$4,388
Memory Care
$5,170
Independent Living
$2,840
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Idaho?
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 Idaho.
Idaho’s Medicaid program for elderly and disabled adults covers many services that are provided in assisted living and memory care facilities. These benefits are available to individuals who require help with day-to-day activities due to Alzheimer’s, dementia or another disability. There are several ways to receive long-term care benefits in Idaho as long as you have limited income and assets and meet the medical eligibility requirements.
Idaho’s Personal Care Services Program is the primary source of these benefits. Since it’s part of the official Medicaid State Plan, it’s an entitlement available to all eligible beneficiaries without a waiting list. The state also provides a Medicaid waiver for assisted living and residential memory care, and there are several options for dual enrollees who qualify for Medicaid and Medicare.
If Idaho pays your Medicare premiums, you may be eligible for the Medicare Medicaid Coordinated Plan. The MMCP pays for primary and emergency medical care as well as long-term services and supports. Beneficiaries gain access to State Plan Personal Care Services, the Aged & Disabled Waiver and even nursing home care when these services are medically necessary.
Idaho Medicaid Plus is another managed care program available to adults who are enrolled in Original Medicare and Enhanced Medicaid. The program gives beneficiaries access to Personal Care Services and passive enrollment in the Aged & Disabled Waiver. This waiver can help with the cost of memory care when these services are necessary. IMPlus is available to dual enrollees in 21 counties.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Idaho?
Idaho’s Personal Care Services Program covers a variety of services that help beneficiaries complete day-to-day activities and live independently, including the following:
- Personal care
- One-on-one assistance
- Help with errands and shopping
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Meal preparation or deliveries
- Medication assistance
Similar services are available through the Aged & Disabled Waiver as an alternative to nursing home placement. However, these programs don’t cover the cost of room and board. Individuals who receive SSI may be eligible for the AABD Cash Assistance Program, which provides an additional monthly stipend based on your living arrangement. This can help to offset the cost of room and board in an assisted living or memory care facility.
Assisted Living Waiver Programs in Idaho
Idaho Aged & Disabled Waiver
The Idaho Aged & Disabled Waiver is a home- and community-based Medicaid program that gives seniors an alternative to nursing home care. It’s designed to promote freedom and independence while helping older adults live safely in a setting of their choice. Seniors must be disabled or aged 65 or older and require a nursing home level of care to qualify. If you meet these requirements, the program can help with the cost of services provided in a memory care facility and many other supports, including:
- Adult day health care
- Personal care attendants
- Adult residential care
- Homemaker services
- Chore assistance
- Case management
- Home modifications
- Meal deliveries
- Medical products
- Emergency alert systems
- Non Medical transportation
To learn more or to apply for the Aged and Disabled waiver, contact your Area Agency on Aging by calling 211.
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Idaho
To qualify for Medicaid long-term care, you must meet medical and financial eligibility requirements. For individual applicants, the 2023 income limit is $2,762 per month, or $33,144 per year, which is approximately 300% of the federal benefit rate with a small adjustment for personal expenses. Assets, including bank accounts and stocks, are typically limited to $2,000 for individuals or $4,000 for couples. However, if only you or your spouse requires care, the non-applicant can keep up to $148,620 in assets. There are also exemptions for your primary vehicle, home and some valuables. However, you or your spouse must continue living in the residence.
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $33,144 | $2,000 | |
| Two People | 1 | $33,144** | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two People | 2 | $66,048 | $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.
***This limit is only for couples who are both on Medicaid and live together. If they're on Medicaid, but live separately, such as one getting care at home and the other in a facily setting, the asset limit is $2,000 per spouse.
Idaho Medicaid long-term care benefits are only available to those who meet residency, age and citizenship requirements. When applying, you must provide proof that you:
- Live in the state
- Are aged 65 or older or have a disability
- Are a U.S. citizen or legal resident
How to Apply for Medicaid in Idaho
There are several ways to apply for Medicaid in Idaho. The easiest way is by completing an online application at idalink.Idaho.gov. Alternatively, you may call (877) 456-1233 or visit your local Department of Health & Welfare office.
If you’d rather complete a paper application, you can send your documents to the DHW by mail, email or fax using the contact information shown below.
Self Reliance Programs
P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0026
MyBenefits@dhw.idaho.gov
Fax: (866) 434-8278
If needed, you can complete the authorized representative form located at the end of the application to ensure that family members or other qualified representatives can discuss your application with the agency.
Information You Will Need
You will be asked to provide a variety of personal and financial information when you submit your application. Be sure that you have the following records on hand:
- Current and former names
- Valid identification
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status
- Social Security number
- Information about your household income
- A comprehensive list of assets
- Bank account and property information
- Health insurance policy numbers
- Tax filing status
- Proof of expenses
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
If you need help completing or submitting your application, or if you’re applying on behalf of a loved one, the following agencies and departments can provide assistance. You also have a right to appeal any unfavorable decisions.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Idalink | (877) 456-1233 | Idalink is the official online application portal for Medicaid and other benefits administered by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Seniors and low-income families may also qualify for food stamps and cash assistance to help with the cost of room and board. |
| Idaho Department of Health and Welfare | (877) 456-1233 | If you have questions about your eligibility or application, contact the Department of Health and Welfare directly. The customer service line is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or you can email your questions to MyBenefits@dhw.idaho.gov. |
| DHW Office Locator | 211 | Idaho has 28 regional DHW offices that handle applications for Medicaid and long-term care benefits. Local units may focus on personal care services, home- and community-based services and medical needs assessments. |
| Medicaid Appeals and Fair Hearings | (877) 456-1233 | If you have been denied benefits or disagree with a Medicaid decision, you have a right to file an appeal within 30 days of the notice. You must notify the agency online or by mail, email or fax to request a hearing. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Idaho?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Idaho. 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 Idaho.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Idaho
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 Idaho
There are many resources in Idaho 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho Area Agencies on Aging | Idaho's senior population can seek answers, advice and support services from six Area Agencies on Aging located throughout the state. These agencies are intended as the first point of contact for seniors (60+), caregivers and family members who need help navigating the various federal, state and local services available. These services include transportation, home-delivered meals, wellness clinics and recreational opportunities. In Idaho, the six AAAs are also the designated Aging and Disability Resource Centers. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Idaho 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho Lifeline Program | 800-234-9473 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
Food Assistance Programs
Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help Idaho seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) | 208-336-9643 | Idaho Commodity Supplemental Food Program is an initiative providing nutrition assistance to low-income seniors aged 60 and older. The program aims to improve the overall health and dietary intake of vulnerable seniors and reduce the risk of malnutrition. Through CSFP, seniors receive monthly food packages containing nutritious staples, including canned fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products and proteins, ensuring recipients have access to well-balanced meals. Shelf-stable items such as ready-to-eat cereals, rice, pasta and peanut butter may also be included. |
| Idaho Congregate Meals | Idaho congregate meals are available at senior centers throughout the state, providing food-insecure seniors with access to regular meals. Seniors can visit these sites to enjoy a hot, nutritious meal with other residents. Each senior center follows a different schedule, so interested Idaho residents should contact their local center to learn when meals are available. Many of these programs also offer delivered meals for homebound seniors who can't easily visit a congregate setting. | |
| Idaho Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) | 208-375-7382 | In coordination with the United States Department of Agriculture, Idaho's Emergency Food Assistance Program provides food for low-income seniors and others in the state who meet certain annual and monthly income limits. Food is delivered at a local level through Emergency Feeding Organizations at food banks, soup kitchens and pantries. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have an income that is 250% or less than the federal poverty line. Each local agency may have its own documentation requirements. |
| Idaho Meals on Wheels | Idaho Meals on Wheels is a volunteer-supported organization that provides home-delivered meals to seniors throughout the state. Volunteers deliver hot, nutritious meals to homebound seniors Monday through Friday, with additional frozen meals available for the weekend. Homebound seniors ages 60 and older can apply for meals through their local Meals on Wheels organization or Senior Services Agency. | |
| Idaho Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 877-456-1233 | Idaho Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps Idaho seniors and low-income families obtain healthy food. Formerly known as food stamps, this program provides seniors with an electronic benefits transfer card loaded with money from their SNAP account to purchase eligible food items, including bread and cereals, fruits and vegetables, meat, fish and poultry and dairy products. Eligibility for SNAP is based on residency, income and assets. Immediate food assistance is available within 7 days for those who are eligible. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Idaho 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho Idaho Assistive Technology Project (IATP) | 800-432-8324 | IATP facilitates the Idaho AT4ALL Exchange, which allows people to buy and sell used equipment. The program lists some available equipment for free. The organization also loans equipment and has financial loans available to help people finance DME purchases. |
| Idaho Living Independence Network Connection (LINC) | 208-336-3335 | LINC mainly offers equipment loans for a wide range of products, including wheelchairs, walkers and bath seats. It may also provide a free option for some people and can help individuals access loans and financing. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Idaho 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho Senior Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) | 800-247-4422 | SHIBA is a free program managed by the Idaho Department of Insurance that provides seniors in Sandpoint with information and advice on various health insurance options. Those old enough to apply for Medicare can get detailed information from the advisors, who can also suggest suitable private health insurance to cover any shortfalls in their state health insurance plans. As the advisors are unbiased, seniors needn't worry about being sold policies. The advisors can also support those denied Medicare by helping them draft and submit their appeals. |
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 Idaho have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho Rural Development State Office | 800-292-8293 | The Section 504 Repair Program provides single-family housing repair and loans and grants. It's offered in rural Idaho by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Low-interest loans of up to $40,000 are available, but people aged 62 and over may qualify for a grant of up to $10,000. Recipients can combine grants and loans to provide $50,000 in funding. |
| Idaho Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | 877-375-7382 | WAP is another program offered by local CAPs. Qualified homeowners and renters can get a range of repairs and improvements to enhance the energy efficiency of their home, including insulation installation, heating system testing and minor repairs. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Idaho 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho Commission on Aging | 877-471-2777 | The Idaho Commission on Aging administers a wide range of programs to promote healthy, safe aging. These include senior nutrition services, congregate meals, transportation, case management, legal advice and relief services for unpaid caregivers. Adult Protective Services are available to those who have experienced abuse or neglect, and Senior Medicare Patrol helps beneficiaries combat fraud and billing errors. Many of these programs are administered by the state's Aging and Disability Resource Centers and Area Agencies on Aging. |
| Idaho Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) | 208-454-8555 | The Senior Community Service Employment Program connects low-income adults 55 and older with training and employment opportunities should they wish to reenter the workforce. The program connects them to the training they need to gain real-world work skills. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Idaho 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho 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 Idaho 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho State Tax Commission | 208-334‑7736 | Idaho's Property Tax Reduction program is also known as the Circuit Breaker program. It reduces property taxes for eligible homeowners by up to $1,500, depending on income. Idaho also has a property tax deferral program, allowing people to defer taxes on property and up to one acre of land. The participant must pay these taxes when the property ownership changes or it no longer qualifies for deferral. |
Veteran's Services
Idaho 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho Veteran Services | Idaho Veteran Services offers specialized health care and social assistance for seniors aged 65 and over. Senior veterans in Idaho can receive quality care through outpatient locations and clinics in Kootenai, Mountain Home and Salmon, as well as at a full-service medical center in Boise. The agency offers funding for in-home care, support with daily living activities, visiting nurses and skilled nursing and memory care placement. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Idaho
Idaho’s Department of Health and Welfare inspects, licenses and regulates residential care and assisted living facilities in the state, including facilities that provide memory care services. The following is a brief summary of the state licensing rules regarding residential care in Idaho.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Facilities may not admit or retain residents who require 24/7 skilled nursing care, and those who present a danger to themselves or others due to violent, aggressive behavior. |
| Care Plan Requirements | Each resident must have a completed personal assessment that covers their need for assistance with activities of daily living, need for health services and all physicians’ orders. |
| Medication Management Requirements | Residents may self-administer prescription and over-the-counter medications. Unlicensed staff who have completed an approved medication course can help residents self-administer meds under the supervision of a licensed nurse. All medications must be supplied in pharmacy-prepared blister packs or dispensed by a registered nurse. |
| Staff Screening Requirements | All employees who have direct access to residents must complete a fingerprint-based background check that includes a search of state and national criminal registries. |
| Staff Training Requirements | At least one staff certified in CPR and first aid must be awake and on-site at all times, and all staff need to complete a minimum of 16 hours of orientation before commencing work in a residential care facility. Memory care facilities must ensure that all direct care staff have specific dementia care training that covers communications, behavior management and stress reduction. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Idaho’s Aged and Disabled Medicaid Waiver provides coverage for memory care services. |
| Reporting Abuse | Concerns regarding the quality of care provided in a long-term care facility should be reported to the Long-Term Care Ombudsman via the nearest Area Agency on Aging. For issues involving an immediate threat to the health and safety of memory care residents, contact the nearest law enforcement agency. |
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