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Memory Care in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is home to nearly 1.4 million people, and seniors are well-represented within that population, with 19.3% of the state’s residents aged 65 years or older. Senior-friendly areas like New Hampshire may see greater demand for dementia care, as age is a prominent risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. In New Hampshire, per the CDC, Alzheimer’s-related deaths increased from 530 in 2016 to 609 in 2020, a change of 14.91%.
New Hampshire’s memory care communities are safe havens where seniors with memory loss can go for support. In these communities, staff members run cognitively stimulating programming and help residents through their days. Security measures protect residents from dangers like wandering into unsafe situations. The topics of this guide cover New Hampshire’s memory care prices as well as care options and resources for seniors.
The Cost of Memory Care in New Hampshire
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 New Hampshire and its 7 cities.
The Cost of Memory Care in New Hampshire's Top Cities
Memory care fees vary considerably throughout New Hampshire, so it's prudent for seniors to compare locations before confirming a care agreement. The average rate in Newmarket ($5,263) is almost $2,000 lower than the overall state norm. Monthly fees in Warner and Dover also run lower than the statewide average; seniors tend to pay around $6,500 in Warner and $6,891 in Dover. At $11,340, memory care is considerably pricier-than-average in Nashua.
New Hampshire
$7,169
Dover
$6,891
Nashua
$11,340
Newmarket
$5,263
Warner
$6,500
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, the 2023 cost of memory care ($7,169) is up 12.7% compared to the previous year's figure ($6,364). The U.S. average increased 10.4%, from $4,863 to $5,369. Inflation is causing rates to gradually rise across New England, though impacts differ between states. Between 2022 and 2023, Massachusetts saw a small cost increase of 1.8%. Prices rose by 9.5% in Vermont. Maine's increase of 28.3% was potentially more burdensome. Although Connecticut saw a slight decrease in average rates (down 0.7%), monthly fees are projected to increase to around $7,637 by 2024.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | $6,364 | $7,169 | $7,635 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Maine | $6,600 | $8,469 | $9,019 |
| Vermont | $8,800 | $9,639 | $9,882 |
| Massachusetts | $7,570 | $7,706 | $7,782 |
| Connecticut | $7,310 | $7,257 | $7,637 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
In New Hampshire, senior living costs vary depending on the type of care. Exact fees also fluctuate according to support needs and special programs, as well as a facility's size, amenities, staffing and location. Seniors should consider their preferences, care requirements and budgets when choosing the most suitable care type. Memory care presently averages $7,169 per month in New Hampshire. This is more than assisted living and independent living, which cost roughly $6,217 and $3,874 per month, respectively.
Assisted Living
$6,217
Memory Care
$7,169
Independent Living
$3,874
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in New Hampshire?
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 New Hampshire.
The basic New Hampshire Medicaid program doesn’t directly cover memory care services for seniors. Medicaid recipients also need to be approved for Long Term Care (LTC) and the Choices for Independence Program, a Home and Community-Based Services Waiver, to receive coverage for services received in residential care facilities that provide memory care.
Delaying or preventing the need for expensive state-funded nursing home care is the ultimate goal of the LTC and waiver programs. As such, residents who require significant help with daily activities may receive coverage for services received in memory care facilities or in-home care if deemed appropriate.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in New Hampshire
New Hampshire seniors who are eligible for both the state Medicaid and Long Term Care waiver programs can be covered for a wide range of services related to memory care. Individuals are covered only for the services deemed appropriate in their circumstances, although the following list gives a general idea of what to expect.
Medicaid Long Term Care may cover services such as:
- Personal care
- Residential care facility services
- Supportive housing
- Personal emergency response system
- Skilled nursing
- Specialized medical equipment
Memory Care Waiver Programs in New Hampshire
Choices for Independence Program
The Choices for Independence Program helps seniors and people with disabilities avoid premature nursing home placement by expanding the coverage of Medicaid to include in-home and residential care services. The additional covered services listed above are part of what’s collectively referred to as Medicaid Long Term Care.
Memory care may be covered for individuals who are approved for Medicaid LTC and the Choices for Independence Program waiver and assessed as needing the specific set of services provided in such a facility. New Hampshire Medicaid doesn’t pay the entire bill for memory care, however, as room and board costs aren’t covered.
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in New Hampshire
New Hampshire Medicaid and the Choices for Independence Program are intended for residents who meet certain eligibility criteria, including being:
- Aged 65 or older and/or deemed disabled per Social Security
- A New Hampshire resident and United States citizen (or have valid immigration status)
- Low income with few assets
- In need of services to satisfy medical requirements in a home or community setting
The financial requirements for Medicaid LTC eligibility include a limit of $2,500 in countable assets and $32,904 in annual income per person, as of 2023. This income limit is set at 300% of the SSI federal benefit rate, so it changes slightly each year. The state may investigate up to 60 months prior to the application to determine whether the person sold or gave away any assets with a high monetary value. All sources of income must be verified, including annuities and Social Security.
2022 Basic Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in New Hampshire
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $32,904 | $2,500 | |
| Two People | 1 | $32,904** | $2,500 | $148,620 |
| Two People | 2 | $65,808*** | $5,000**** |
*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 $2,500 per spouse
Applicants for Medicaid Long Term Care coverage must also satisfy medical eligibility, which involves having a need for LTC services and requiring a nursing home level of care. The applicant will be contacted to schedule an assessment.
How to Apply for Medicaid in New Hampshire
New Hampshire residents can apply for basic Medicaid online at NH Easy or over the phone by calling (800) 852-3345, extension 9700. Applications for Medicaid Long Term Care services can be submitted in person or by mail to local offices of the Department of Health and Human Services. The application for Medicaid Long Term Care — known as Form 800 — is available online but must be printed and submitted to the DHHS.
What Information You Will Need
As these programs are limited to people with low income who are unable to afford care, applications are scrutinized to ensure the individual is eligible and may be required to prove certain elements. Any specific requests for proof will be made during the application process, and the following list of items is merely an example.
- Proof of identity (name and date of birth)
- Social Security number and/or Veterans claim number
- Proof of citizenship (only if it can’t be verified automatically via Social Security)
- Proof of income (award letter, pension statement, dividend checks, etc.)
- Documentation of assets owned and any significant transfer within the prior 60 months
- Health insurance card and current premium statement (if applicable)
Many pieces of information about an applicant may not need to be verified, particularly for people with previous applications for public assistance and recipients of Social Security benefits.
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
There are many sources of help and information about the Medicaid program. Included below are details about assistance programs and agencies that are available in all parts of the state. Addresses and telephone numbers for local offices are typically listed on the corresponding website. The national hotlines listed here will also connect residents to nearby resources.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| ServiceLink - Aging and Disability Resource Centers | Visit the website for local contacts or call (866) 634-9412 | There are 13 ServiceLink locations throughout New Hampshire that can help with aging and disability issues in person or over the phone. Options counselors are trained specifically to help with eligibility and applications for Medicaid and the Choices for Independence program, which may provide coverage for memory care services. |
| NH EASY Gateway to Services | Call the customer helpline of the Department of Health and Human Services at (844) 275-3447 | NH EASY is the state's official online portal for information and to apply for Medicaid and various other benefits. Seniors in need of coverage for memory care services can apply for the state Medicaid program online or in person. After eligibility for Medicaid is determined, recipients can call or visit a local DHHS office to ask about Long Term Care coverage. |
| Medicaid Client Services | Call (800) 852-3345, extension 9700 | The Medicaid Client Services' toll-free line is available during regular weekday business hours to respond to questions and/or requests for Medicaid services. Staff can help current recipients of Medicaid understand the process of Long Term Care approval. New applicants can get answers over the phone or directions on where to access local assistance with the application. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in New Hampshire?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in New Hampshire. 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 New Hampshire.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in New Hampshire
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 New Hampshire
There are many resources in New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire Adult & Aging Care | 800-351-1888 | New Hampshire Area Agencies on Aging are services that help adults ages 60 and older, or 18 and older with a disability, live independently. AAA programs in New Hampshire assist older adults with nutritious, hot, home-delivered meals and community dining, which offers socialization opportunities and promotes overall wellness. Other vital services include transportation to help seniors get to medical and dental appointments, obtain groceries and reach other destinations. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire 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. |
| New Hampshire Old Age Assistance | 844-275-3447 | New Hampshire residents aged 65 years or older can apply for Old Age Assistance cash benefits under the State Supplemental Program. An applicant must have a Social Security number and meet certain income and financial resources requirements. Income limits vary according to seniors' living arrangements, whether they're living on their own, with family members or in an assisted living facility. Seniors undergo interviews upon completion of application forms. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire Choices for Independence Waiver | 800-351-1888 | The NH Choices for Independence Waiver helps seniors receive the support and care they need, whether in an institutional setting like a nursing home or other community facilities. The Waiver can be used to cover the cost of personal care services, home health aides, transition services, skilled nursing care and durable medical equipment. It can also be used for respite care and case management services. The program is open to seniors aged 65 and over, as well as younger adults who are living with a disability. Under Choices for Independence, seniors are given a case manager who will work with them to develop a care plan that either allows them to live independently in their home or helps them access the skilled nursing care they require in order to maintain a high quality of life. |
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 New Hampshire seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire Meals on Wheels | New Hampshire Meals on Wheels runs independently operated food assistance programs throughout the state. Eligibility is open to seniors ages 60 and over and those unable to shop for groceries or prepare their own meals. Meals are served in a congregate setting to help reduce isolation or delivered to seniors' front doors with a friendly visit and safety check. Although additional services vary, they may include pet meal delivery, telephone reassurance and transportation services to local health care appointments. | |
| New Hampshire Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 844-275-3447 | The New Hampshire Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps low-income residents obtain healthy food. Adults 60 and over who meet household size, income, expense and resource guidelines are eligible. Qualified seniors receive Electronic Benefits Transfer cards that are accepted at most grocery stores and supermarkets statewide. EBT card funds can buy dairy products, bread, rice and pasta, meat, fish and fresh produce. However, they cannot be used to purchase alcohol, tobacco, prepared foods or personal care items. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire Loaner's Closet | 603-432-8077 | The Community Caregivers of Greater Derry maintains a large medical equipment loan closet that includes a variety of mobility aids and other equipment. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire Medication Bridge Program | 603-225-0900 | The NH Medication Bridge Program is sponsored by the Foundation for Healthy Communities. It helps individuals access prescription medications they might not otherwise be able to afford. |
| New Hampshire Rx Card | 800-9313-5542 | This is the state's free prescription assistance program. Residents can apply for a card that grants automatic discounts of up to 80% on prescription drugs at participating pharmacies. The program aims to help those who are uninsured or underinsured access affordable medication. |
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 New Hampshire have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire Section 504 Home Repair Program | 603-223-6035 | The Section 504 Home Repair Program offers loans of up to $40,000 and grants of up to $10,000 for senior homeowners to make essential home improvements. The program is aimed at seniors who would otherwise not be able to cover the cost of home repairs. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire Legal Aid | 800-639-5290 | New Hampshire Legal Aid provides free legal services to those aged 60 and over in Dover and can help individuals navigate issues such as wills and trusts, guardianship and powers of attorney. This agency can also help older adults apply for benefits, such as Social Security and Supplemental Security Income. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire Catholic Charities | 603-669-3030 | This faith-based charity offers a variety of programs that may be of use to local seniors, including financial literacy education, mental health services and legal aid. Health care services are also available, including dental, podiatry and optometry consultations. The CareGivers program connects volunteers with elderly citizens in need of transportation, chore assistance or friendly visits. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire Elder Property Tax Exemption | 603-230-5000 | The Elder Property Tax Exemption offers a reduction in property taxes for seniors who are homeowners. The state has additional exemptions for veterans and those living with certain disabilities. |
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. New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire Electric Assistance Program (EAP) | 800-735-2964 | The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps those who live in eligible households meet their utility bills. It offers support in the form of a one-time payment during the coldest months of the year. |
| New Hampshire Fuel Assistance Program | 800-735-2964 | The New Hampshire Fuel Assistance Program, part of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, helps qualifying New Hampshire seniors stay warm during the cold months. The primary way it assists is by providing financial help for heating costs ranging from $243 to $2,419, with the average totaling $1,530.25. Aid may also be available for shut-off notices, emergency fuel delivery and referrals. Eligibility is based on income, the home's number of residents and energy costs totaling $100+. |
Veteran's Services
New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire VA Benefits and Health Care | New Hampshire VA Benefits and Health Care provides resources for senior veterans, with supportive services available through VA health and benefit offices. Seniors and their families can receive medical care, apply for benefits, receive mental health counseling and learn about cemetery benefits for senior vets in New Hampshire. Seniors can call (800) 698-2411 for further assistance. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, long-term care facilities are licensed, inspected and regulated by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Health Facilities Administration. Two types of facilities can offer residential memory care services in the state: residential care facilities (RCFs) and supported residential health facilities (SRHCFs).
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Residential facilities can admit and retain residents who have a diagnosis of dementia as long as those residents do not require 24/7 skilled nursing care or display behavior that could pose a threat to themselves, staff or other residents in the facility. Residents must also be able to self-evacuate in an emergency. |
| Care Plan Requirements | All new residents must be assessed by a trained intake assessor using an assessment tool approved by the HFA. Assessments must be reviewed every six months or more frequently if the resident presents with major health or behavioral changes. |
| Medication Management Requirements | Staff may assist with self-administration of prescription and over-the-counter medications. Staff may also administer topical treatments, enemas and medicinal shampoos under the supervision of a licensed nurse. |
| Staff Screening Requirements | Administrators must ensure all direct care staff are suitable for employment with vulnerable individuals by verifying references and completing background checks on caregivers. |
| Staff Training Requirements | Caregivers must complete a comprehensive orientation prior to beginning work at a residential facility and undergo at least 12 hours of annual in-service training thereafter. |
| Medicaid Coverage | New Hampshire's Choices for Independence waiver includes memory care benefits. |
| Reporting Abuse | New Hampshire's Adult Protection Law mandates that any concerns regarding the abuse, neglect, self-harm or exploitation of a vulnerable adult must be reported immediately to the Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services at 1-800-949-0470. |
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