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Nursing Homes in Ohio
With more than 71,000 adults living in skilled nursing facilities, Ohio has the nation’s fifth-largest population of nursing home residents after California, Texas, New York and Pennsylvania. The Buckeye State is home to more than 978 nursing homes that offer families a wide range of choices.
Skilled nursing facilities are suitable for individuals who have advanced medical needs and require around-the-clock care. In Ohio, these facilities are authorized to provide personal care, such as assistance with daily activities, as well as skilled medical care, such as administering medications. Nursing homes also offer meals, accommodations and recreational activities to provide an enriching lifestyle. According to the Genworth 2020 Cost of Care Survey, the median cost of a semiprivate nursing home in Ohio is $7,148 per month, and residents pay $1,065 more for private accommodations.
If your loved one is unable to live safely at home or has needs that are too advanced for an assisted living facility, skilled nursing may be the best option. This guide features helpful resources for families who are considering nursing home care, including pricing information, financial assistance programs, relevant state agencies and local long-term care organizations.
The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Ohio
Budget-conscious families will be pleased to discover that nursing home costs in Ohio are about 8% lower than the national average of $7,756. Rates are also competitive for the region according to the Genworth 2020 Cost of Care Survey. In Ohio and Indiana, seniors pay approximately $7,150 per month for a semiprivate room. Although average rates are just $180 higher in Kentucky, seniors in neighboring states pay considerably more. Nursing facilities in Michigan charge $1,825 more per month, and rates in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, exceed $10,000 a month.
Average nursing home costs vary by more than $2,000 per month in Ohio’s major metropolitan areas. In Columbus, the state’s capital and largest city, monthly rates are $150 lower than the state median. This is one of the most affordable areas for nursing home care after Canton in the northeast, where seniors pay just $6,540 per month. When compared to the state median, prices increase by around $150 in Youngstown, $700 in Cleveland and $970 in Akron, which shows how rates can vary in a limited geographic region. Although monthly costs in Akron exceed $8,100, it’s not the most expensive city. In Dayton, residents pay $8,699 per month, which is $1,000 more than Toledo and $1,550 more than the state median.
Columbus
$6996
Cleveland
$7848
Cincinnati
$8152
Toledo
$7604
Akron
$8121
Dayton
$8699
Canton
$6540
Youngstown
$7300
Families who are seeking long-term care for an elderly relative have several options ranging from adult day care and in-home alternatives to assisted living and skilled nursing in licensed health care facilities. Adult day health care is the most affordable option with an average cost of $1,300 per month. Assisted living costs $4,350 per month, and home health agencies typically charge $4,481 to $4,566 depending on the level of care required. With an average cost of $7,148 per month, nursing homes are considerably more expensive, which reflects the level of skilled care and intensive staffing that’s provided around the clock.
Nursing Home
$7148
In-Home Care
$4481
Home Health Care
$4566
Adult Day Care
$1300
Assisted Living
$4350
Does Medicaid Cover Nursing Home Care in Ohio?
Medicaid is an important source of funding for Ohio’s nursing home residents. This program covers more than 3 million adults and children statewide and about 60% of the state’s nursing home residents. Ohio has one of the nation’s largest populations of nursing home residents after California, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas. Nearly 72,000 adults reside in the state’s 978 skilled nursing facilities. Medicaid is available to residents who live in these facilities, meet medical and financial criteria and spend the majority of their income on long-term care. The state will also pay for alternative forms of care through Medicaid waivers.
Medicaid Eligibility in Ohio
Medicaid provides several eligibility categories to ensure members of target populations can access available benefits. While traditional Medicaid is available to individuals who have limited income and assets, seniors and disabled adults may also qualify based on their medical needs. Applicants who require a nursing home level of care qualify for Medicaid if they earn no more than 300% of the federal Supplemental Security Income benefit. For 2023, this limit is $2,742 per month. Additionally, applicants must spend all of their income on long-term care, excluding a $50 monthly personal needs allowance. Assets are subject to strict limits. However, certain items are excluded, including a primary home and vehicle.
2022 Basic Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Ohio
| 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 | $148,680 |
| Two Person | 2 | $65,808 | $3,000 |
*Except for a $50/mo. personal needs allowance, Medicare premiums and possibly a spousal income allowance for a non-applicant spouse, all of a recipient's monthly income must be put toward the cost of nursing home care.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
To qualify for Medicaid, applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents with a permanent address in Ohio. Seniors and disabled adults who require a nursing home level of care can qualify for benefits with higher income limits. The state also allows spouses to retain a monthly needs allowance, and seniors who earn too much to qualify may be able to establish a trust to reduce their income to acceptable levels. Applicants who meet financial requirements must also complete a personalized needs assessment to determine whether they qualify for nursing home care.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Ohio
The Ohio Department of Medicaid provides several application options for seniors who want to apply for traditional health care benefits or long-term services and supports. To start an online application, visit Benefits.Ohio.gov. You may also contact your county’s Job and Family Services office. Applications are accepted in person and by mail or fax. You can also call Ohio’s Medicaid hotline at (800) 324-8680 for assistance.
Information You Will Need:
- Proof of income
- Financial statements
- Property records
- Health insurance information
- Proof of age or disability
- Proof of citizenship or legal residency
Additional Medicaid Support & Resources in Ohio
If you need help applying for benefits or appealing a decision, contact the Department of Medicaid directly. You can also visit your local Job and Family Services office or reach out to a nonprofit advocacy group for personalized assistance.
| Resource | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline | (800) 324-8680 | If you have questions about Medicaid, including benefits for skilled nursing and long-term care, contact the state’s Medicaid Consumer Hotline to speak with a specially trained Choice Counselor. Staff members can answer questions, process applications and assist with notices and appeals. |
| County Department of Job and Family Services | (866) 244-0071 | Ohio operates Job and Family Services offices in all 88 counties. This agency helps with applications for Medicaid and financial assistance, including food stamps. It also provides adult protective services in cases of abuse or neglect. |
| Ohio Disability Rights Law and Policy Center | (800) 282-9181 | Seniors who are applying for Medicaid or have received notice that their benefits are being reduced or terminated can contact the Ohio Disability Rights Law and Policy Center for assistance. The agency provides a detailed overview of the appeals process along with a variety of self-advocacy materials. |
| Ohio Legal Help | (614) 285-6710 | Ohio Legal Help offers information about Medicaid and other government benefits, including eligibility requirements. The organization directs consumers to government agencies in their local area, and it provides referrals to legal aid organizations and pro bono attorneys who can help with Medicaid, long-term care and advance planning. |
Does Medicare Cover Nursing Home Care in Ohio?
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 & Resources in Ohio
Medicare is a federal program available to seniors aged 65 and older and adults who have certain medical diagnoses. This program covers 2.4 million Ohioans, and it can help with the cost of short-term nursing home care following a hospital stay.
| Program | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program | (800) 686-1578 | OSHIIP is a federally sponsored program that educates current and future Medicare beneficiaries about their eligibility and coverage options. Specialized, trained counselors provide one-on-one information sessions to help older residents understand their insurance options and apply for extra help. |
| Ohio Department of Insurance | (800) 686-1526 | The Ohio Department of Insurance offers a variety of informational services and local events through its Medicare Services division. It provides details about financial benefits that can reduce premiums, copays and prescription drug costs. Consumers can also find guides to long-term care insurance and related financial products. |
| Ohio Senior Medicare Patrol | (513) 458-5522 | Pro Seniors administers the state’s Senior Medicare Patrol program. This initiative helps beneficiaries combat fraud by reviewing claims and billing records and making timely reports. Medicare enrollees are encouraged to contact SMP for questions about their explanation of benefits and other health insurance billing statements. |
Other Financial Assistance Options for Nursing Home Care in Ohio
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 Ohio
There are many resources in Ohio 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Area Agencies on Aging | Ohio's Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) help older adults live independently through a wide range of services that support wellness. They provide assistance with nutritious meals delivered to seniors' homes and work to connect older adults with transportation needs, such as shopping, appointments with health care providers and other errands. Services are also available to help seniors socialize and stay engaged through volunteer opportunities and social events. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Ohio 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Home Relief Grant | 800-282-0880 | The Ohio Home Relief Grant provides qualifying seniors with monetary assistance for utilities or rent. It's available via the Community Action Agency, so residents must contact their local office to apply. A convenient locator on the State of Ohio website allows Ohioans to find the CAA closest to them. Supporting documentation, including proof of income, identification and unpaid bills, is required during the application process. |
| Ohio 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. |
| Ohio Homeowner Assistance Fund | 888-362-6432 | The Homeowner Assistance Fund exists to help homeowners throughout Ohio who've experienced financial hardship as a result of COVID-19 or related economic issues. It provides temporary funding for property taxes, utilities, homeowner association fees and mortgage payments. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Ohio 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Department of Medicaid | 800-324-8680 | MyCare Ohio is a managed care waiver that provides services such as assisted living, community integration, home modifications and personal care aides. All care is provided within a managed care network and accessed as required under the supervision of a case manager |
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 Ohio seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Meals on Wheels | Ohio Meals on Wheels provides nutritious meals and support services to statewide seniors ages 60 and over. Balanced meals are served in a congregate setting for those who can safely leave their homes, while those who are immobile can receive daily meal delivery with safety checks. Since programs operate independently, some offer meals that meet special dietary needs and cultural or ethnic preferences. Support services vary, but may include emergency meals, pet meal delivery, home repair and hospital discharge programs. | |
| Ohio Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | The Ohio Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps low-income seniors obtain healthy food, so they can meet their nutritional needs. To be eligible, seniors must be residents of Ohio and meet income and resource guidelines. Once approved, seniors are provided with an electronic benefits transfer card, which can be used at grocery stores statewide to purchase food items, including breads and cereals, meat and fish, fruits and vegetables and dairy products. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Living
Low-income elderly individuals in senior living communities can access financial assistance through local-run programs. These Ohio resources offer advice, guidance and support to help older adults pay for the services offered by long-term care providers.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Assisted Living Medicaid Waiver Program | 800-266-4346 | The Assisted Living Waiver provides personal care for seniors and disabled persons. It also pays for remote support, money management assistance, transportation, specialized medical equipment and meals. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Ohio 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Central American Medical Outreach, Inc.(CAMO) | 330-683-5956 | CAMO's recycling program collects eyeglasses, hearing aids and assistive technology devices and redistributes them to those in need. The organization also redistributes urgent medical equipment such as wheelchairs and walkers. |
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 Ohio have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Section 504 Home Repair Program | 800-414-1226 | The Section 504 Home Repair Program helps very low-income seniors in rural areas access up to $10,000 in grants to make necessary home modifications, ensuring their homes are safe, accessible and habitable. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Ohio 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman | 800-282-1206 | Regional staff and volunteer ombudsmen are available to assist residents who live in nursing homes or assisted living facilities or need help accessing long-term care. They advocate for residents, investigate complaints and provide informational assistance to help with facility selection and government benefits. |
| Ohio Pro Seniors | 513-345-4160 | Pro Seniors is a statewide nonprofit offering a variety of advocacy services for older adults. Its Legal Helpline assists residents aged 60 and older on issues related to health care, estate planning, government benefits and consumer rights. It offers ombudsman services for long-term care residents, and Senior Medicare Patrol helps beneficiaries detect and report fraud and billing errors. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Ohio 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center | 800-438-4380 | Operated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center provides free information about Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The center compiles authoritative, up-to-date information from various agencies and organizations to help seniors live with the disease. |
Medicaid Resources
Navigating the Medicaid system is often difficult and confusing. Several Ohio 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio PASSPORT Waiver | The PASSPORT Waiver gives seniors the opportunity to choose where and how they receive long-term care by providing services in their communities. Covered services include social work, nonmedical transportation, home-delivered meals and personal care. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Ohio 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio 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 Ohio 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Homestead Exemption | The Homestead Exemption is available to low-income seniors and those with permanent disabilities. It provides property tax credits, allowing homeowners to exempt up to $25,000 of the value of their homes from local tax. | |
| Ohio AARP Tax-Aide Foundation Program | 888-227-7669 | Through the Ohio AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program, low- to middle-income taxpayers 50 years and older receive assistance from IRS-certified volunteers in preparing their tax returns. The service is free, and any personal information submitted by seniors is treated with confidentiality. Taxpayers booking an appointment need to ready pertinent documents, including a government-issued photo identification card, IRS-issued correspondence, all documents related to income and records of any federal, state or local income tax payments. |
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. Ohio 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) | 800-282-0880 | The Home Energy Assistance Program is a one-time benefit that helps low-income households cover the cost of their energy bills when they're at risk of disconnection or eviction due to nonpayment. |
Veteran's Services
Ohio 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio VA Benefits and Health Care | Ohio VA Benefits and Health Care system includes programs dedicated to the wellness of seniors with medical centers in Chillicothe, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Dayton, as well as many outpatient clinics, vet centers and benefits offices throughout the state. There's also a regional loan center in Cleveland that can assist eligible seniors with service-related disabilities get home loans and assistance staying in their homes and modifications to make the home accessible. |
Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in Ohio
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Nursing homes in Ohio, also called long term care facilities, are licensed by the Department of Health, Health Care Facilities Licensure and Certification Section. Facilities are authorized to provide personal care and skilled nursing to individuals who require assistance due to an injury, illness or disability. |
| Staffing | Skilled nursing facilities must have sufficient direct care staff on each shift to provide appropriate, timely care and to deliver at least 2.5 hours of one-on-one assistance to each resident daily. Qualified staff includes nurse aides, RNs and LPNs. The state also has minimum shift requirements for key personnel, such as the director of nursing. |
| Staff Training | Facility administrators must provide appropriate training to ensure that each staff member can perform all required job duties. Nurse aides in Ohio must complete a board-approved 75-hour training program and competency evaluation that includes classroom education and supervised clinical work experience. |
| Admission Restrictions | Individuals seeking admission to a Medicaid-funded long-term care facility must pass a federally mandated Preadmission Screening and Resident Review. The facility must be able to safely meet the resident's needs, especially if the person has a developmental disability or serious mental illness. Short-term admissions may be permitted in emergency situations. |
| Care Planning | Nursing homes must prepare a written plan of care within seven days of admission or completion of the initial assessment. The plan should be developed with input from the resident or resident's representative and must be reviewed quarterly or following a change in health. |
| Dietary and Nutrition Services | Skilled nursing facilities must provide a least three palatable, nutritionally balanced meals daily. Meal substitutions and alternative dining options must be available. Facilities are also required to monitor each resident's intake to ensure that their nutritional needs are met. Dietary services must be overseen by a qualified nutritionist or registered dietitian. |
| Specialized Rehabilitative Services | Nursing homes may provide special services, including physical and occupational therapy, to contribute to the patient's rehabilitation. |
| Medication and Pharmaceutical Services | Staff members may assist nursing home residents with self-administering medications, and they may administer prescription and over-the-counter medications as directed by a physician's orders. Nursing homes are also required to provide pharmacy services by employing a full- or part-time pharmacist or consultant. |
| Activities | Nursing homes must provide comprehensive life enrichment activities to meet residents' physical and emotional needs. Programs must accommodate the individual's interests and abilities. |
| Infection Control | Nursing homes must develop written policies for preventing and managing communicable infections and diseases. Staff members must follow hygiene protocols, and facilities must report and investigate infections as required. These rules apply to tuberculosis and other listed diseases. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Medicaid Long Term Care will pay for the cost of institutional care provided in a skilled nursing facility. This coverage is available to individuals who meet income and assist limits and have a qualifying medical need. |
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