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Nursing Homes in Oregon
Oregon, known as the Beaver State, attracts a great diversity of seniors with its beautiful natural scenery and friendly policies for older adults. Seniors aged 65 and over make up 18% of the state’s population, which is more than the national average of 16.5%. Many of these seniors require regular or short-term care in a licensed nursing home. According to the Oregon Department of Human Services, Oregon has 137 facilities with more than 11,000 beds combined. Oregon also has the lowest nursing home occupancy rate in the United States.
In Oregon Administrative Rules, the definition of a nursing facility is a permanent residence with two or more people that provides medical services, such as skilled nursing and inpatient beds, but not surgical services. These facilities must be licensed and able to perform complex nursing tasks. A semi-private room in a nursing home in Oregon costs $10,114 per month and a private room is $11,178.
This guide provides information about the costs of nursing home care in Oregon, along with information about financial assistance and free and low-cost resources that may be of assistance to seniors and their families.
The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Oregon
According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey 2020, the average price for nursing home care in Oregon is $10,114 per month. This makes Oregon the most expensive state in the region for this type of care. The second most expensive state is Washington at $9,581 per month. California and Nevada average just a few hundred dollars less at $9,247 and $9,262 per month, respectively. The least expensive state is Idaho at $8,669 per month. Each state in the region is significantly more expensive than the national average of $7,756.
The cost of nursing home care in Oregon can vary by thousands of dollars depending on location. Medford, which is at the very southern end of the state, has the least expensive costs at $9,475 per month. East of the Cascades, the city of Bend has the most expensive nursing home costs at an average of $11,650 per month. Portland, which costs $10,083 per month, is very close to the state average. Salem is the capital of Oregon and has an average monthly cost of $10,646. About 50 miles down the road is the fast-growing city of Eugene, where nursing home care costs $10,235 per month, on average.
Portland
$10083
Bend
$11650
Medford
$9475
Salem
$10646
Eugene
$10235
Nursing home care is the most expensive type of care for seniors in Oregon. Adult daycare is the most affordable option at $2,582 per month, but it may not be an adequate choice for many families. Seniors who are able to stay in their own homes may use homemaker services and home health aides, which cost $5,472 and $5,529 per month, respectively. Assisted living costs $4,659 per month. Residents who require memory care may pay up to 30% more.
Nursing Home
$10114
Adult Day Care
$2582
Assisted Living
$4659
Homemaker Services
$5472
Home Health Aide
$5529
Does Medicaid Cover Nursing Home Care in Oregon?
In Oregon, there are over 1.2 million residents enrolled in Medicaid. The state Medicaid program covers nursing care and specialized rehabilitation services. Eligible seniors can receive dietary counseling and pharmaceutical management services at no cost to them. Medicaid also pays for the cost of in-house doctor visits and medically related social services.
There are over 100 nursing homes in Oregon, many of which accept Medicaid. Seniors can also apply for alternative care to nursing home placement, such as aging in place at home with help from the Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Home- and community-based services (HCBS) waivers are another way to receive nursing care services at home or in residential facilities.
Medicaid Eligibility in Oregon
Oregon’s Medicaid program requires individuals to meet certain income limits. Single applicants can have a monthly income of no more than $2,742 and no more than $2,000 in assets. These limits are the same for an individual applying from a two-person household, although due to the Spousal Impoverishment Act, a non-applying spouse can have up to $148,620 in assets. Couples applying for Medicaid must have a monthly income that doesn’t exceed $5,484 and no more than $4,000 in assets.
| 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 | $4,000 |
*Except for a $74,75/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.
In addition to the financial requirements, Medicaid eligibility in Oregon is determined by the individual’s need for nursing-level care and proof that the individual resides in the state. This can be accomplished with any of the following:
- Birth certificate or other proof of citizenship
- Military documents, including DD 214
- Car registration and insurance
How To Apply for Medicaid in Oregon
Seniors and loved ones can apply for Oregon’s Medicaid program, also known as the Oregon Health Plan (OHP), online by submitting an application or downloading an application to print out and mail. Available in five languages, the application can also be requested by mail by calling OHP Customer Service at (800) 699-9075. Be sure to have the appropriate documents prepared before starting the enrollment process. Any changes to the application can take up to three weeks to reprocess.
Information You Will Need:
- Birth certificate
- Social Security card or proof of citizenship if born outside the United States
- Medicare cards
- Proof of life insurance documents
- Property deeds
- Proof of any real property sold or transferred within 60 months prior to the application date
- Proof of car registration and insurance
- Proof of pension(s), including a letter of verification from the provider
- Preneed burial contract
- VA discharge papers, such as DD 214, for veteran applicants
- Copies of trusts and wills, as well as powers of attorney
- Any other documents the applicants thinks will support their claim
Additional Medicaid Support & Resources in Oregon
Listed below are a few Medicaid-related resources to assist seniors and families who are looking for ways to cover the cost of care, such as HCBS waivers. Benefits.gov and similar online directories can help seniors find federally funded programs with local providers.
| Resource | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Area Agencies on Aging | (503) 945-5600 | The Oregon Area Agencies on Aging, which has 16 offices located throughout the state, offers registration forms in seven languages. Representatives can help qualifying seniors and their families find in-home and community-based services that fit their needs. Area Agencies on Aging work with the Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon to ensure individuals find resources closest to their residence. |
| Medicaid Planning Assistance | Online Only | Medicaid Planning Assistance, which partners with the American Council on Aging, has a plethora of guides and articles about how to properly file for Medicaid assistance and how to maintain benefits. Users can find free information regarding HCBS waiver eligibility and VA nursing homes. The website also offers a Medicaid eligibility test and an in-depth guide that compares the advantages and disadvantages of hiring a professional planner vs self-planning. |
| Benefits.gov | (800) 359-9517 | Benefits.gov is the official U.S. government website that helps seniors find resources and services to improve their quality of life and promote independence. Individuals can use the Benefits Eligibility Screening Tool (BEST) provided by the Social Security Administration to determine if they're eligible for Medicaid and Medicare, as well as many other federal benefits. |
Does Medicare Cover Nursing Home Care in Oregon?
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 Oregon
While long-term care is not covered by Medicare, there are financial assistance programs that can reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs for eligible seniors. Medicare professionals can help with the enrollment process and managing Medicare claims.
| Program | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) | (800) 722-4134 | For Medicare beneficiaries in Oregon, Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) offers free and unbiased insurance counseling for those who need help maintaining their benefits. Certified by the state, Medicare counselors have experience helping seniors understand each Medicare Part and find supplemental plans that fit their needs. Counseling services are available one-on-one and as a group presentation. |
| Oregon Medicare Savings Connect | (855) 447-0155 | The Medicare Savings Connect program can help with out-of-pocket Medicare Part B and D costs, including deductibles and co-pays. To qualify for Part B assistance, single individuals can make no more than $1,469 per month and couples can make no more than $1,980 per month. For Part D assistance, single applicants can make no more than $1,630 per month and have no more than $14,790 in assets. Couples must have a monthly income of $2,198 and no more than $29,520 in assets. |
| BenefitsCheckUp | (800) 794-6559 | Partnered with the National Council on Aging, BenefitsCheckUp is a free website that allows users to search for resources based on their location and a short questionnaire. Seniors and caregivers can use the website to find financial assistance and tax relief programs, with information available in English and Spanish. Health care assistance includes prescription and Medicare savings programs. |
| Medicare.gov | (800) 633-4227 | The official Medicare website offers information about original Medicare and links to professional Medicare help and Medicare-registered providers. Seniors and loved ones can create an account to manage their insurance coverage and view upcoming scheduled medical screening and other preventive services. Beneficiaries can find and download their health and Medicare history. |
Other Financial Assistance Options for Nursing Home Care in Oregon
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 Oregon
There are many resources in Oregon 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.
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Lifeline | 800-848-4442 | 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 Oregon seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Meals on Wheels | Oregon Meals on Wheels operates independently-run food assistance programs throughout the state. To be eligible, seniors must be aged 60 or over or unable to shop for and prepare their own meals. These nutritious and balanced food choices are served in a congregate setting or delivered to seniors' doors with safety checks to monitor their well-being. Meals are available on a sliding-fee scale and may be free, depending on individual circumstances. Some locations offer meals that meet ethnic and cultural preferences. | |
| Oregon Food Bank | 800-777-7427 | For those facing hunger, Oregon Food Bank aims to provide access to food across the state by creating food banks and helping to eliminate the root causes of food shortages. The organization lists food banks throughout Oregon, where seniors can pick up food essentials on a regular basis. In addition, it runs a Meals on Wheels service for seniors who are unable to leave their homes or prepare meals for themselves. |
| Oregon Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 503-945-5600 | Oregon's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, operated by the Department of Human Services, offers a monthly benefit to help reduce the cost of healthy food. Seniors in the program receive Electronic Benefits Transfer cards that are reloaded with funds each month. SNAP participants can use their EBT cards at grocery stores and farmers' markets to buy food. Eligibility is restricted to Oregon residents with incomes below $29,160 for individuals. This figure increases for larger households. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Prescription Drug Program | 800-913-4284 | The Oregon Prescription Drug Program transitioned to the ArrayRx Discount Card Program on January 1, 2022. Anyone previously enrolled must re-enroll with ArrayRx.However, it's still state-sponsored and authorized by the Oregon Health Authority. The program can save participants up to 80% on generic drugs and 20% on name-brand prescriptions at most pharmacies. |
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 Oregon have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Section 504 Home Repair Program | 866-923-5626 | Seniors may apply for a home repair grant yearly through their local RD office. If they qualify, they receive a grant that they must use to make home repairs to remove health and safety hazards. Applicants may only receive a total of $10,000 in housing repair grants during their lifetime. |
| OregonCommunity Builders Program | 503-501-5719 | REACH Community Development is dedicated to helping older adults and disabled individuals age safely in their homes by providing free home repairs. A licensed, bonded and insured general contractor handles home repair projects of qualifying applicants. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Law Center (OLC) | Oregon Law Center is a statewide organization that can provide legal advice and information to seniors and low-income residents in all 36 counties in the state. OLC's volunteer attorneys assist with civil cases involving landlord-tenant disputes, government housing, financial exploitation and Social Security benefits, among others. | |
| Oregon Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | 800-522-2602 | Oregon's Long-Term Care Ombudsman program is dedicated to ensuring that seniors in assisted living facilities receive quality care. Residents or their family members can contact the program's office with concerns about the care being received in a facility. The ombudsman then investigates the issue and works as an advocate for the resident to get it resolved. Seniors and their caregivers can also contact the ombudsman to schedule a free consultation about their long-term care options in the McMinnville area. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Catholic Charities | 503-231-4866 | This nonprofit provides a variety of specialized senior services, including case management and care placement. Mental health counseling services and financial wellness education is available here, as are opportunities for volunteering and community engagement. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Alzheimer's Disease and Aging | 503-494-7772 | The center consists of a significant number of researchers whose aim is to seek new ways to prevent, cure or improve care for cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer's. People with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia can benefit from the expert knowledge of experienced neurologists working at the OSHU Brain Institute, including the renowned doctor and scientist Doctor Jeffrey Kaye, M.D. A team of specialists meets daily to assess cases, and patients with Alzheimer's and dementia may be eligible to participate in clinical trials that are conducted occasionally. In addition, there's also a wide range of support services for patients and families. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon 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 Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Senior and Disabled Property Tax Deferral Program | 800-356-4222 | Senior and disabled homeowners can borrow from the State of Oregon to pay their county property taxes through the Oregon Property Tax Deferral for Disabled and Senior Citizens program. If qualified, the Oregon Department of Revenue pays the homeowner's taxes on November 15 each year and places a lien on the home. |
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. Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP) | 800-453-5111 | OEAP is a low-income electric bill payment assistance program for low-income customers of Pacific Power and Portland General Electric. The goal is to reduce service disconnections for vulnerable customers. The program prioritizes customers in danger of having their service disconnected. |
Veteran's Services
Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon VA Benefits and Health Care | Oregon VA Benefits and Health Care connects qualified senior veterans to the services they earned through their time in the military. This may include health care coverage, income and long-term care help, depending on the veteran's unique needs and time spent in the service. The VA Medical Center is located in Portland, and the VA has clinics and satellite offices throughout the state. |
Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in Oregon
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Licensing Requirements | A person or group of people is required to hold a license to operate a nursing facility in Oregon. Applicants must pass a criminal background check, have a clean performance history, demonstrate financial credibility and have experience in operating a nursing facility. Licenses need to be renewed annually. |
| Staffing Requirements | All nursing facilities in Oregon must be staffed by a full-time licensed nursing home administrator. In facilities with fewer than 40 beds, this administrator may help meet other minimum requirements while on duty.For every resident within a nursing facility, a licensed nurse must be on duty for one hour per week. Facilities must have a licensed charge nurse on each shift, 24 hours per day. Nursing assistants are also required in the following ratios:Day Shift: 1 for every 7 residentsEvening Shift: 1 for every 9.5 residentsNight Shift: 1 for every 17 residentsOregon has specific rules for when shifts can begin and end. |
| Staff Training Requirements | Staff at each nursing facility is required to go through orientation training and continual in-service training each quarter. The RN Care Manager is required to pass three credit hours in topics related to long-term care, gerontology or rehabilitation. Certified nursing assistants shall receive a minimum of three hours of in-service training each calendar quarter. |
| Admission Restrictions | No nursing facility is allowed to admit a resident who has conditions that the facility does not have the staff or equipment to care for adequately. No person shall be admitted without a direct order from a physician, and no one who is mentally ill or developmentally disabled can be admitted without approval from a legal representative. In addition, the facility cannot place a new resident in any location not included in the most currently approved floor plan. |
| Care Planning Requirements | Within 14 days of admittance, a registered nurse must complete a comprehensive assessment of a resident in order to determine their needs and capabilities. The nursing facility will then have seven days to complete a comprehensive care plan. This plan will describe in detail how the facility will meet the medical, nursing, and psychosocial needs of the resident. Whenever possible, the plan will promote the independence of the resident, as well as their potential for discharge. |
| Dietary and Nutrition Services Requirements | Each nursing facility in Oregon must have a dietary services department that's responsible for the delivery of sanitary food to residents. The department must be run by a dietary service director who is a registered dietician or someone with the equivalent education or experience. Menus need to have input from a physician, and three meals must be served daily. Dining assistants, who are trained and evaluated, can help residents with feeding. |
| Specialized Rehabilitative Services | Nursing facilities must make a rehabilitation program available that aims to restore the functional abilities of residents to the greatest extent possible. Each resident must have their own rehabilitation plan. |
| Medication and Pharmaceutical Services | In order to ensure compliance with Oregon regulations, each nursing facility must consult with a pharmacist. They will help the facility adhere to correct drug storage, supply and labeling, as well as drug administration. Written policies will describe when residents can self-administer their medications. |
| Activities Requirements | An activity program, which is run by an activity director, must be in place at each Oregon nursing facility. The program will promote normal activities that lead to the self-care of residents. Activity plans for each resident shall be incorporated into each comprehensive care plan. |
| Infection Control | To promote a clean environment, nursing facility employees may not hold duties that may potentially contaminate living areas, such as working trash pickup and housekeeping. The facility must also have a Quality Assurance and Assessment Committee that creates and regularly reviews an infection control program to help prevent the spread of disease. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Residents who meet the income and asset requirements for the Oregon Health Plan, which is 300% of the Federal Benefit Rate, may have their nursing home stay covered by Medicaid. |
Facilities in Oregon
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