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Nursing Homes in Florida
Florida is well-known as one of the top retirement destinations in the United States, and it has seven out of the 10 best places to retire in the United States. Out of a population of over 21 million people, more than 4 million Floridians are aged 65 and older.
Florida has several nationally ranked hospitals across many cities, from Miami to Gainesville. Florida also ranks number one for nurse staffing rates among the 10 most populous states. The state has over 600 licensed nursing homes, representing approximately 84,448 beds. With about 72,161 seniors residing in nursing homes, these facilities roughly have an 85% occupancy at any given time.
In addition to room and board, nursing home facilities provide skilling nursing care, therapies, rehabilitation, personal care and medication 24 hours a day. The average cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home facility is $8,669 per month, and the cost of a private room is $9,817, according to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey 2020.
This guide covers everything related to nursing home care in Florida, including the average monthly cost, Medicaid eligibility, financial assistance options, free and low-cost services and nursing home rules and regulations.
The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Florida
According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey 2020, Florida has a monthly average nursing home care cost of $8,669 for a semi-private room. Compared to neighboring states and the country, Florida has the most expensive option for nursing home care. The national average of nursing home care is $7,756 per month, over $900 less than Florida’s average. The neighboring state of Alabama has a monthly average nursing home cost of $6,540, over $2,000 less than Florida. Georgia’s prices are also less costly at $6,722 per month.
The cost of nursing home care across Florida varies from city to city. In general, the larger cities tend to have some of the highest nursing home care costs in the state. Jacksonville, the largest city in Florida, has an average monthly nursing home care cost of $8,638 per month for a semi-private room, almost on par with the Florida average. Miami and Orlando have nursing home care costs of $9,095 and $9,125, respectively, and Tampa has an average price of just under $10,000 per month. The least expensive nursing home care option in Florida is Sebring, located in the state’s center, with a cost of $7,451. However, despite having a population of less than 30,000, Naples has the most expensive nursing home care cost in Florida at $10,391 per month.
Sebring
$7452
Tallahassee
$7543
Jacksonville
$8638
Miami
$9095
Orlando
$9125
Tampa
$9946
Naples
$10391
A semi-private room in a nursing home facility is the priciest care option in Florida. Seniors can expect to pay over $4,000 more for a room in a nursing home facility than receiving care in their own home. The least expensive choice in the state is adult day care at $1,408 per month. Assisted living facilities cost half the price of nursing home care at an average of $4,195 per month in Florida.
Adult Day Care
$1408
Assisted Living
$3700
Home Care
$4195
Nursing Home Care
$8669
Does Medicaid Cover Nursing Home Care in Florida?
Over five million Floridians are enrolled in Medicaid, which accounts for about 23.2% of the senior population. For enrollees residing in nursing homes, the program can cover the costs of their room and board and laundry services, as well as medical equipment and supplies, general nursing support and social services. It also covers specific medical costs, such as medications and on-site physicians. Florida has over 700 nursing homes, all of which accept Medicaid. They collectively house almost 86,000 beds and provide their residents with hospital-like levels of care 24/7. The Statewide Medicaid Managed Care Long-Term Care Program helps cover some nursing home care fees, in addition to other costs, such as transportation. Elders in need of skilled nursing care who prefer to remain at home or in the community may be eligible for the Long-Term Care Waiver Program.
Medicaid Eligibility in Florida
The applicant must satisfy certain financial and medical criteria to be eligible for Medicaid. A registered nurse and/or assessor from the nearest Aging and Disability Resource Center conducts a medical screening session by phone, which typically takes 45 to 60 minutes. The senior’s score determines their medical eligibility and position on the waiting list, with higher scores taking priority over lower ones already listed. The Department of Children and Families conducts the financial assessment.
As of 2023, a single applicant can have an annual income of up to $32,904 and assets not exceeding $2,000. For a two-person household, the figures are $65,808 in income and $3,000. However, if only one person from the household applies, the spouse remaining at home can retain assets of up to $148,620 if the applicant is in a nursing home or in receipt of a Home and Community Based Waiver.
2022 Basic Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Florida
| 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*** | $3,000 |
*All monthly income except for a $130 personal needs allowance and Medicare premiums must be paid to the facility as a share of cost. There may also be a monthly needs allowance for a non-applicant spouse.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
***Income is limited to $2,742 per month per spouse.
As of 2023, to qualify, the applicant must:
- Be an American citizen or legal resident
- Reside in Florida
- Have an annual income of no more than 300% of the Federal Benefit Rate
- Be aged 65 or older
How to Apply for Medicaid in Florida
Seniors have several options for applying for Medicaid in Florida. They can go online to the ACCESS Florida website, call the ACCESS Florida Customer Call Center at (850) 300-4323, post their application to P.O. Box 1770, Ocala, FL, 34478-1770 or visit their local ACCESS Service Center. Applicants should prepare all necessary documentation prior to applying. The process can take up to three months but may take longer if the documentation provided is insufficient.
What Information You Will Need:
- Social Security and Medicare cards
- Copy of birth certificate
- Bank statements for the previous 60 months before the application date, including for closed accounts
- Proof of income for the previous 60 months before the application date (including 1099s)
- Verification of pension income, which must include a letter from the pension provider
- Proof of citizenship, if born outside the United States
- Copies of life insurance documents
- Property deeds
- Proof of any real property sold or transferred in the 60 months before the application date
- Car registration or title, including insurance documentation
- Preneed burial contracts
- VA discharge papers (DD 214) if the applicant is a veteran
- If applicable, copies of power of attorney, final will and trust documents
- Any other documentation the applicant thinks may support their claim
Additional Medicaid Support & Resources in Florida
The following list contains contact details and a short bio about free resources in Florida dedicated to helping families navigate the often complicated processes surrounding Medicaid applications.
| Resource | Contact | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Aging & Disability Resource Centers | (800) 963-5337 | Florida's Aging & Disability Resource Centers are an interconnected network of Area Agencies on Aging that administer programs and services for elders. Families can get information about most aspects of long-term care in their area and be connected with advisors from other Aging & Disability Resource Centers in Florida if they are thinking of relocating. The centers can help families understand the Medicaid application process and refer them to other nonprofits that may be able to provide specific information not covered by the center. |
| American Council on Aging | Online Only | The American Council on Aging operates an online Medicaid Eligibility Test specifically for families who want to know if their loved ones qualify for assistance before applying. The organization also operates an online Spend Down Calculator that helps elders and their spouses determine how much of their assets need to be spent to become eligible for financial assistance from the Statewide Medicaid Managed Care program. |
| Benefits.gov | (866) 762-2237 | Benefits.gov is a federal website that provides basic information about Medicaid in Florida, such as the current maximum income allowances for applicants. It's useful as a starting point for families who have limited knowledge about Medicaid and need to know who to contact in Florida to learn more and begin the application process. |
Does Medicare Cover Nursing Home Care in Florida?
Medicare provides limited coverage for short-term stays in a skilled nursing facility following a hospital stay, but seniors must meet a number of specific requirements. This benefit is available to beneficiaries who have been hospitalized for at least three days, excluding the date of discharge, so it’s most valuable for those who are recovering from an injury, illness, or surgery.
Once seniors meet the hospitalization requirement, Medicare will pay for up to 100 days of skilled nursing per benefit period. The first 20 days are covered in full. Starting on day 21, beneficiaries must pay a daily coinsurance rate. After day 100, seniors are responsible for the entire cost.
What Does Medicare Cover?
Medicare covers a number of specific services, including:
- Meals
- A semiprivate room
- Medications
- Skilled nursing
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Audiologist care
- Medical supplies
- Medical social services
- Nutritional counseling
- Ambulance transportation
What Isn’t Covered by Medicare?
Medicare does not cover long-term custodial care that addresses seniors’ day-to-day needs. This includes help with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing and using medical equipment.
For more information about Medicare and when it covers Nursing Home Care, read our Guide to Nursing Homes.
Medicare Support and Resources in Florida
Families considering nursing home care for their loved ones may wonder if Medicare can meet some of their costs. Although health insurance can’t help in the long term, it may provide initial assistance. Trained advisors associated with the organizations listed here may be able to provide families with information and guidance pertinent to their unique situations.
| Program | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| SHINE | (800) 963-5337 | SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is administered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and operated locally by Area Agencies on Aging. This free service offers trained advisors who provide unbiased information and support for seniors and their families on Medicare. The advisors don't operate on commission, so they don't promote specific private insurance policies when discussing alternatives to traditional Medicare. Sessions are entirely confidential and conducted one-on-one, either in person or by phone. |
| BenefitsCheckUp | (800) 794-6559 | BenefitsCheckUp is a resource operated jointly by the National Council on Aging and the Florida Department of Elder Affairs. This online service compiles the available health care options for seniors based on the answers given to a short series of questions. The list of results provides links to the services that may be available, such as TRICARE for Life and Medicare Savings Programs. Families can call a helpline if they have additional questions regarding Medicare availability. |
| Medicare.gov | (800) 633-4227 | Medicare.gov is a federal website with a wealth of information about Medicare that families and elders can access round the clock. It provides general information about the health care program, in addition to state-specific content and links to useful websites and phone numbers. Its live chat function operates 24/7 so visitors can ask questions of trained advisors, who can call visitors back if a chat is interrupted. |
Other Financial Assistance Options for Nursing Home Care in Florida
While Medicaid and Medicare are two of the most common programs used to pay for Nursing Home Care, there are other financial assistance options available, depending on your unique situation.
| 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 skilled nursing 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 nursing 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 skilled nursing 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 skilled nursing care will not typically be eligible to sign up for a LTC insurance policy. |
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Florida
There are many resources in Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Area Agencies on Aging | Floridians aged 60 and over can access critical care, support and education programs provided through the state's Area Agencies on Aging. With multiple location offices organized by region, the AAAs offer home- and community-based services. Options include Meals on Wheels, fitness and wellness sessions and home care assistance with personal care tasks and homemaking activities. All Florida AAAs focus on helping older persons to stay independent for longer. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Florida 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 Florida seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Meals on Wheels | Florida Meals on Wheels is a state-wide program delivering meals to homes of frail seniors who struggle to cook and shop for themselves. The program also offers congregate meals throughout the state for seniors who aren't homebound. In addition to the food, many of the state's Meals on Wheels volunteers provide friendly visits when they deliver to seniors' homes. | |
| Florida Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 850-300-4323 | The Florida Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, previously known as food stamps, gives funds to low-income seniors and others who are having trouble paying for food. Support is provided through an electronic benefit transfer card, which can be used at grocery stores and other locations that sell fresh produce, meat and other food items. Florida's seniors can apply online, on the phone or through the mail. They must provide documents proving their household income, expenses and assets during the application process. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Rx Card | 877-321-6755 | The Florida Rx Card program provides eligible seniors with discounts of up to 75% off out-of-pocket prescription drug costs. There's no cost to apply for a card, and discounts are available at a number of pharmacies within Florida and throughout the United States. |
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 Florida have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants | 352-338-3400 | Income-eligible adults aged 62+ living in unsafe homes can get grants of up to $10,000 to pay for repairs. Loans of up to $40,000 at 1% interest rates on 20-year terms are also available. It's possible to combine a loan and grant, up to a maximum of $50,000. |
| Florida Weatherization Assistance Program | The program aims to make homes energy-efficient, which simultaneously can reduce the householder's energy costs and make their living spaces more comfortable. Types of assistance include insulating attics, installing solar screens and replacing inefficient HVAC units. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Elder Law Program | 888-895-7873 | The Florida Elder Law program provides free legal services to seniors aged 60 and over. It can provide legal advice regarding civil issues, such as health care expenses or long-term care visitation rights. The agency can also refer seniors to local legal services through the Bay Area Legal Services program when necessary. |
| Florida Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) | 888-831-0404 | The Ombudsman Program of Florida serves as an advocate for seniors living in nursing homes and assisted living communities. It helps seniors and their family members understand their rights and works to resolve issues. Its staff members investigate and help resolve nursing home complaints and conduct annual assessments of all licensed senior care centers. |
| Florida's Department of Elder Affairs | 888-895-7873 | Florida's Department of Elder Affairs operates a toll-free legal information line for seniors aged 60 and older. Seniors can call the Senior Legal Helpline to access free legal information related to long-term care, estate planning and guardianship. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Association of Senior Centers | 850-891-4008 | The Florida Association of Senior Centers helps older adults connect with community services that can help them maintain their health and independence. It promotes high-quality programming in senior centers, most of which serve as an entry point for accessing community-based services such as options counseling, Medicare assistance and durable medical equipment loans. The association's website maintains an up-to-date database of assisted living facilities throughout the state. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Association Florida Chapter | 800-272-3900 | The Alzheimer's Association is a national nonprofit organization that funds Alzheimer's disease research as well as educational and support programs. Florida is home to three local chapters of the AA, and these chapters offer case management services, patient and caregiver support groups and assistance with securing long-term care resources. |
| Florida Mayor’s Initiative on Healthy Aging and Livability | 305-375-5648 | The Mayor's Initiative on Aging is a countywide program that administers community activities to help improve the quality of life for older residents. These include health education and disease prevention information; wellness screenings for cholesterol, blood pressure, glaucoma, bone density, diabetes, body mass index and mental illness; age-friendly fitness programs; and interactive presentations on senior safety. |
| Florida Byrd Alzheimer's Center and Research Institute | 813-396-0606 | The University of South Florida Health's Byrd Alzheimer's Center and Research Institute offers a range of services and supports to those living with memory loss as well as to family members and caregivers of people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. The institute conducts a number of clinical trials for dementia care and treatment at no cost to participants as well as multiple in-person and online family caregiver support groups and community education programs. |
Medicaid Resources
Navigating the Medicaid system is often difficult and confusing. Several Florida resources help older adults by providing advice on Medicaid options, waiver programs and eligibility criteria to help seniors receive the right health care benefits.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Statewide Medicaid Managed Care Long-Term Care Program | 850-414-2000 | SMMC LTC supports seniors at risk by helping meet the costs of care at home, in the community or in an assisted living facility. The program pays for non-medical services, such as adult day care, home-delivered meals and personal care. Some applicants may also be eligible for Managed Medical Assistance, which provides home-based and institutional medical support. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Florida 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 Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Homestead Exemption | Floridians aged 65+ can get an additional homestead exemption of up to $50,000. The real estate must have a just value of no more than $250,000 and be the applicant's permanent residence for a minimum of 25 years. |
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. Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | The federally-funded program contributes towards energy costs for residents on low incomes up to three times per year (depending on monies available). The local program provider pays the utility company directly. |
Veteran's Services
Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Florida VA Benefits and Healthcare | Florida VA Benefits and Health Care serves as a reliable lifeline for senior veterans across the Sunshine State. Through its comprehensive offerings, it provides veterans who meet the service and residency requirements with access to health care services, disability benefits, record-keeping assistance and pension programs. The organization also provides housing solutions through VA home loan programs to help senior veterans build, purchase and improve homes. In addition, it assists in organizing burials and memorials. |
Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in Florida
| Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in Florida | |
|---|---|
| Licensing Requirements | All nursing home facilities must be licensed by the Agency for Health Care Administration to operate in Florida. Separate licenses are required for facilities managed in different sites, even if operated by the same management. |
| Staffing Requirements | Each nursing home must have a designated director of nursing and an assistant director of nursing in a facility with more than 120 residents. The facility must also have sufficient nursing staff on a 24-hour basis.Nursing staff cannot be scheduled for more than 16 hours within 24 hours unless there's an emergency.Each nursing home facility must also have a licensed physician to serve as medical director. In facilities with less than 60 residents, a physician can serve as a medical consultant instead. |
| Staff Training Requirements | Each nursing facility must have staff education in HIV/AIDS training and at least one-hour of training for Alzheimer's disease or related disorders. Staff education must also include prevention and control of infection, fire prevention and disaster preparedness, accident prevention and residents' rights. |
| Admission Restrictions | Residents suffering from an infectious disease cannot be admitted to a nursing facility unless there are adequate isolation measures in place to control the transmission of the disease. Residents who need services beyond what the facility is licensed or able to provide may not be retained in the facility. |
| Care Planning Requirements | Residents admitted to a nursing facility must have a care plan. The care plan must contain a preliminary nursing evaluation, an assessment of each resident's functional capacity, and physician's orders, diagnosis, medical history and rehabilitative potential. The facility must also create a comprehensive care plan that describes the services provided for the resident. The care plan must be completed within seven days after completion of the resident assessment. |
| Dietary and Nutrition Services Requirements | Nursing facilities must have a designated full-time director of food services (DFS). The DFS must be a qualified dietitian or the facility must receive consultation from a qualified dietitian. A facility must also maintain a one-week supply of non-perishable food and supplies. |
| Specialized Rehabilitative Services | Each facility must provide residents access to rehabilitative services, and residents have the right to receive therapeutic and rehabilitative services in accordance with their care plan. |
| Medication and Pharmaceutical Services | Nursing homes must either employ or obtain the services of a state-licensed consultant pharmacist. The consultant pharmacist is tasked with creating a drug record system and ensuring it's accurate and in order. Prescription and nonprescription drugs that require refrigeration must be locked and only accessible to licensed staff. |
| Activities Requirements | Nursing facilities must allow residents access to recreational and other health-related services that may not be directly provided by the facility.Residents must also have the right to participate in social, religious and community activities, receive planned recreational activities and join in community-based activities programs. |
| Infection Control | Nursing facilities must keep the premises and equipment sanitary and implement infection control policies and procedures. Facilities must also provide willing residents with influenza vaccinations. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Medicaid covers nursing home care for qualified Floridians. Seniors must be 65 years and older, require a nursing home level of care and meet the income requirements. |
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