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Nursing Homes in Louisiana
In Louisiana, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates the senior population at 15.9% of all residents or nearly 740,000 seniors. The Department of Health and Human Services recently published a study which notes that 70% of seniors will need some form of long-term support service at some point.
Nursing home care is the highest tier of care available and offers health care and other services around the clock. A nursing home is often the long-term care option of choice for seniors who need temporary rehabilitation services that might be difficult to deliver at home or assistance managing chronic illnesses for frail seniors who need regular visits from nurses and other health care providers.
While skilled nursing facilities offer the highest levels of care, it also comes with the highest price tag. The average cost of a semi-private room is $5,536 per month while private rooms average $5,840.
This guide offers an in-depth look at the costs and assistance programs available for nursing home care in Louisiana, along with information about other resources that may be helpful to those seeking to delay nursing home placement.
The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Louisiana
According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey 2020, Louisiana seniors can expect to pay an average of $5,536 per month for nursing home care. The national average is $7,756, which means Louisiana residents save approximately $2,200 per month. Seniors in neighbouring Texas have even more affordable options because the average cost is more than $500 less than in Louisiana. In Oklahoma, costs are comparable at $5,323, and in Arkansas, seniors pay nearly $400 more per month. In Mississippi, the cost of nursing home care is much more expensive at approximately $1,500 more per month.
Location within Louisiana can play an important role in determining costs for nursing home care. The closer a resident is to the Mississippi border, the more expensive care tends to be. Proximity to the coast also tends to mean higher costs. For example, Houma and New Orleans are two of the most expensive areas in the state, and both are in the eastern half of the state on the Gulf Coast. Houma seniors can expect to pay an average of $6,068 per month, and New Orleans is not far behind at $5,931. Shreveport, Baton Rouge and Lafayette are all near the state average at $5,536, $5,597 and $5,627, respectively. Seniors living in the western part of the state, particularly up near the northern border can expect to see some of the most affordable nursing home costs. In Monroe, the average is only $4,490, which is $1,046 less than the state average. In Hammond, costs are similar at $5,019 per month.
Monroe
$4490
Hammond
$5019
Shreveport
$5536
Baton Rouge
$5597
Lafayette
$5627
Lake Charles
$5880
New Orleans
$5931
Houma
$6068
Does Medicaid Cover Nursing Home Care in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, over 1,763,200 residents are enrolled in Medicaid, which can cover the costs of long-term care services such as living accommodations and medical equipment expenses. Applicants can also receive physician services in their long-term care facility, and prescription medications, in addition to various rehabilitation therapies, are available at no cost to them.
Over 200 nursing homes are located throughout Louisiana. In a nursing home, seniors are supervised by medical professionals 24/7 and can receive help with assistive devices, including hearing aids and prosthetics, from skilled nurses. The state offers a Medicaid program for long-term care services, even if the applicant isn’t enrolled in any of Medicaid’s HCBS Waivers.
Medicaid Eligibility in Louisiana
Medicaid applicants must meet the income requirements as described below and must need nursing-level care. Individuals can contact Medicaid Customer Service with any questions about the income and asset limits. Single applicants must have no more than $2,742 in income per month and $2,000 in assets to qualify for Medicaid coverage. The non-applicant is offered some financial protection with an asset limit of $148,620 due to the Spousal Impoverishment Act. For a couple, these figures increase to $5,484 of income per month and $3,000 in assets.
It’s important to note that many states, including Louisiana, allow income “spend down.” This means that even people whose income exceeds the stated limit can still qualify for Medicaid by spending money on medical expenses, including nursing home fees. So, if one’s income exceeds Medicaid’s limit but after paying for a nursing home their income falls below the limit, they will qualify for Medicaid coverage of nursing home care.
| 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 People | 1 | $32,904** | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two People | 2 | $65,808 | $3,000 |
*All monthly income except for a $38 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.
When applicants meet the other requirements but are above the income and asset limits, they can spend down on necessities, such as medical expenses, to meet the income limits. Other qualifications include:
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of residence in Louisiana
- Military discharge papers, if applicable
How to Apply for Medicaid in Louisiana
Individuals can apply for Medicaid in Louisiana online, over the phone or at a Medicaid office. When using the LA Medicaid Self-Service Portal, users can apply for benefits and view the status of their Medicaid coverage. Seniors and families can also apply over the phone by calling (888) 342-6207. Or they can find a local Medicaid office to apply in person.
Before applicants start their application, they should make sure they have all the appropriate documentation to prevent their benefits from being delayed.
Information You Will Need:
- Copy of birth certificate
- Medicare cards
- Social Security card, or green card if born outside the United States
- Bank statements for the 60 months previous to the application date
- Proof of earned and unearned income, such as employment wages and stock dividends
- Proof of pension, including a letter from the provider
- Car registration and insurance
- Proof of real property sold or transferred in the previous 60 months
- VA discharge papers (DD 214) if applicant is a veteran
- Pre-need burial contracts
- Any other documents applicants may need to support their claims
Additional Medicaid Support & Resources in Louisiana
Families and seniors may find the Medicaid application process long and complicated. Luckily, several resources offer a plethora of information.
| Resource | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana Long-Term Care Services | (888) 342-6207 | Long-term care services are provided by Medicaid, and families and seniors can apply for coverage of nursing care costs, including services in a home or residential setting, to delay nursing home placement. Applicants can benefit from the program even if they haven’t applied for any of the home- and community-based service Medicaid waivers. Applications are accepted online and in person. To apply over the phone, call the phone number provided. |
| Louisiana Aging & Disability Resource Center | (877) 340-9100 | Overseen by the Louisiana Governor's Office of Elderly Affairs, the state’s Aging & Disability Resource Center offers a wide range of resources online through the website, LouisianaAnswers. Using LouisianaAnswers, families and seniors can find local and state programs, including long-term in-home support and other medical services. Resources include SenioRX, a pharmaceutical manufacturer patient-assistance program. |
| Medicaid Planning Assistance | Online Only | Offered by the American Council on Aging, Medicaid Planning Assistance is a free service that helps applicants determine their eligibility before they start their application. Medicaid Planning Assistance has numerous guides about the qualification requirements for self-planners and the benefits of working with various types of professional Medicaid planners. Users can find guides about what to do when denied coverage and details about state HCBS waivers that can provide more medical services than regular Medicaid coverage. |
| Benefits.gov | (888) 342-6207 | Individuals can find federal and state programs on this official website for government benefits in the United States, including financial aid benefits and various types of healthcare assistance. By using the SSA Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool, users can determine if they qualify for Medicare and Medicaid as well as other benefits provided by the Social Security Administration. |
Does Medicare Cover Nursing Home Care in Louisiana?
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 Louisiana
Medicare doesn’t cover all long-term care costs, especially nursing home care. Fortunately, the state has a few Medicare-specific programs and services to help low-income families cover those costs and assist seniors in finding the appropriate level of care.
| Program | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana Office of Aging and Adult Services | (866) 758-5035 | A department of the state's Department of Health, the Office of Aging and Adult Services offers local and statewide resources to help seniors and their loved ones explore their long-term care options and find low-cost or free care services for qualifying individuals. The OAAS processes admission requests for nursing homes across the state. Permanent supportive housing and adult protective services are also available. |
| Senior Health Insurance Information Program | (800) 259-5300 | Medicare SHIIP counselors can assist seniors and families gain a better understanding of their benefits and how to maintain them, including reporting fraudulent charges and appealing denied claims. Beneficiaries can learn about Medicare basics, how to read their monthly statements and where to look for supplement insurance for the gaps in Medicare coverage. Counselors have experience identifying seniors who qualify for financial assistance to cover medical costs, such as prescription medication and assistive devices. |
| Medicare Savings Program | (888) 342-6207 | To help low-income seniors with out-of-pocket medical expenses for Medicare, Congress initiated the Medicare Savings Program. Applicants must be currently enrolled in Medicare Hospital Insurance (Part A) to be eligible. To apply, seniors and loved ones can use the self-service Medicaid Portal or call the toll-free phone number. Additionally, individuals can download and print the PDF application to send in by fax or mail. They can also stop by their local Medicaid office to apply in person. |
| Medicare.gov | (800) 633-4227 | The official Medicare website has a plethora of information, ranging from Medicare basics to the “Medicare & You” handbook. Individuals can create an online account to apply for coverage and manage their benefits. Using their accounts, beneficiaries can download claims and update their medical history and other personal data. The live chat feature lets applicants talk to an experienced Medicare professional anytime except on holidays. The help page also offers a list of professionals in each state and Medicare secondary payers. |
| BenefitsCheckUp | (800) 794-6559 | Provided by the American Council on Aging, BenefitsCheckUp can help seniors and their loved ones find state and federal benefits to assist with the cost of medical care as well as other costs of living. Qualifying individuals can apply for home- and community-based services in addition to Medicare savings programs, free wireless programs and free mobile phones. |
Other Financial Assistance Options for Nursing Home Care in Louisiana
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 Louisiana
There are many resources in Louisiana 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana Area Agencies on Aging | Louisiana's Area Agencies on Aging manage an array of supportive programs and services geared toward helping seniors remain as independent as possible. Advisors connect seniors and their loved ones with diverse organizations for vital in-home and community support, including those related to benefit assistance, legal advice, health insurance counseling, advocacy, nutrition and transportation. Support groups, companionship programs and exercise classes promote senior well-being. Individuals can access direct services, congregate dining and enrichment activities through a statewide network of senior centers. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Louisiana 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana 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, Louisiana 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana Community Choices Waiver (CCW) | 877-456-1146 | The Louisiana Community Choices Waiver, administered by the Louisiana Department of Health's Office of Aging and Adult Services, offers a variety of in-home services for seniors and adults with disabilities. Individuals eligible for the program must be Medicaid-eligible, 21 years of age or older and in need of a nursing facility level of care. Services include nursing and skilled therapy services, personal care assistance, home modifications, home-delivered meals and assistive devices and medical supplies. |
| Louisiana Long-Term Personal Care Services | 877-456-1146 | The Long-Term Personal Care Services program provides financial assistance for services such as bathing, grooming, transferring, housekeeping and medication management. |
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 Louisiana seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) | 800-522-3333 | The Louisiana Commodity Supplemental Food Program provides low-income Louisiana seniors with healthy food options. Eligible seniors must be age 60 or older and meet income guidelines. Qualifying seniors receive one food box per month that includes foods such as canned meats, fruits, vegetables, cheese, cereal, pasta, shelf-stable milk, peanut butter and beans. Participants also receive nutrition education, including recipe ideas using commodity foods. Delivery of the monthly food boxes may be available for homebound seniors. |
| Louisiana Meals on Wheels | Louisiana Meals on Wheels delivers meals to senior residents throughout the state. To be eligible, seniors must be at least 60 years old and unable to purchase or prepare their own food. Different local agencies coordinate the program, which means meal availability and style vary throughout the state. Some programs offer hot, nutritionally sound foods 7 days a week; others deliver frozen meals for reheating. Program participants can also request meal boxes that include milk, fruit and bread. | |
| Louisiana Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 888-524-3578 | The Louisiana Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps bolster food budgets for state seniors. SNAP benefits are deposited directly into a bank account connected to a government-provided debit card. To qualify for the program, seniors must demonstrate limited income and resources, although resources gained from other assistance programs are generally exempt. Seniors who are already on SSI may qualify for LaCAP, a simplified version of the SNAP program that provides between $82 and $220 in food benefits every month. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Louisiana 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana Assistive Technology Access Network (LATAN) | Louisiana Assistive Technology Access Network Device Loan Program provides assistive devices and equipment. Items can be borrowed for up to 35 days for a small fee. |
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 Louisiana have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants | 318-473-7920 | Low-income seniors who own a home can apply for financial assistance to keep their homes safe by removing health and safety hazards.To find out if your home is eligible, visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture website. |
| Louisiana Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | 225-763-8700 | The Louisiana Weatherization Assistance Program offers home repair and modification assistance for eligible seniors. The Louisiana Housing Corporation, situated in Baton Rouge, manages the service that offers budget-friendly enhancements for increased energy efficiency and comfort. Priority is given to seniors aged 60 and above, individuals with disabilities and those with high residential energy usage who meet income criteria. The most common improvements are insulation installation, roof repair, weather-stripping and duct sealing. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Louisiana 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Lousisiana Law Help | Providing free civil legal services relative to elders and long-term care, Louisiana Law Help provides information and links to statewide resources that can assist with common elder care legal issues such as living wills or elder abuse. Families can find a local lawyer in their area that addresses their area of concern by using the online search tool. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Louisiana 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 Louisiana Chapter | 800-272-3900 | The Alzheimer's Association of Louisiana provides a wide number of services and supports for those living with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. A number of educational tools are offered online, including courses for caregivers to help them manage the complexities of dementia. Families can call the 24/7 hotline for immediate support and access to pertinent local resources. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Louisiana 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Lousiana 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 Louisiana 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Louisana Homestead Exemption | 225-219-0339 | The Homestead Exemption enables Louisiana homeowners to reduce their property tax bills. Lowincome seniors aged 65 and older may be eligible for the Special Assessment Level. |
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. Louisiana 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana Housing Corporation | 225-763-8700 | Louisiana Housing Corporation offers seniors and residents assistance with their energy expenses through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). |
Veteran's Services
Louisiana 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana VA Benefits and Health Care | Louisiana VA Benefits and Health Care operates VA Medical Centers in New Orleans, Shreveport and Pineville, and senior veterans can also obtain medical care at over 15 community-based outpatient clinics throughout the state. Those who require assistance with benefits and pensions can contact knowledgeable advisors at one of the state's four Vet Centers, located in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport and Alexandria. Louisiana honors deceased veterans at four national cemeteries: Baton Rouge, Port Hudson, Alexandria and Louisiana. |
Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in Louisiana
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Licensing Requirements | The Louisiana Department of Health, Health Standards Section issues all nursing home licenses throughout the state. To qualify, facilities must submit an annual application along with any required fees and pass an annual inspection. Licenses are granted for no more than 12 months from the date of issue. |
| Staffing Requirements | While there are no specific staff-to-patient ratios required, Louisiana nursing homes are required to have a full-time staff member as a facility administrator and enough staff on hand to meet the needs of all residents. Direct care staff must have updated personnel records that detail the level of education and experience relevant to the care provided. |
| Staff Training Requirements | All staff must attend an initial orientation before providing direct care to residents. Each year, staff must complete a minimum of 12 hours of continuing education on topics specific to geriatric care. |
| Admission Restrictions | In Louisiana, an open admission policy that avoids segregation based on race, color or national origin is required and must be followed. In the event that segregation occurs, the facility must document that it is not through a pattern of discriminatory practices. |
| Care Planning Requirements | Nursing home staff must create a comprehensive care plan for each new resident within 21 days of their admission. Care plans must provide detailed guidance on the scope of care needed by each new resident. When a resident's needs change, care plans should be updated quickly and accurately. |
| Dietary and Nutritional Services Requirements | Nursing homes must serve residents a nourishing and balanced diet each day. Three meals and occasional snacks are typically served, and residents with special dietary considerations must be offered palatable options that meet their requirements. To ensure all residents receive quality nutritional care, facilities must work with a registered dietitian for a minimum of 8 hours per month to create healthy, balanced menus for a variety of dietary preferences. |
| Specialized Rehabilitative Services | Any and all rehabilitation services must be provided under the guidance of the attending physician and by a credentialed provider. All rehabilitation services (speech, occupational and physical therapies) must be provided in a safe and accessible location. |
| Medication and Pharmaceutical Services | Residents in a nursing home may self-administer medications as long as a multidisciplinary team determines it is safe for them to do so. In all other instances, nursing staff will prepare dosages according to written instructions from the prescribing doctor, after prescriptions are filled by a licensed pharmacy. |
| Activities Requirements | Nursing homes must provide access to regularly scheduled activities available for both individuals and groups, designed to engage residents and improve or maintain physical, mental or social health. Facilities must have an activities director on staff to coordinate and schedule activities. |
| Infection Control Requirements | Nursing homes must have an infection control committee that meets quarterly to update and assess policies and procedures designed to prevent disease transmission between residents. |
| Medicaid Coverage | In Louisiana, seniors who meet the financial and medical criteria are eligible for Medicaid, and it pays for nursing home care when needed. Many nursing homes accept Medicaid payments. |
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