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Assisted Living Kentucky

The Southeastern state of Kentucky offers scenic mountain views, thriving metropolitan cities and a broad range of medical and long-term care amenities, making it a prime retirement destination for older adults. Of its 4.5 million residents, nearly 17% are aged 65 and over, and this demographic is growing considerably faster than others.

On the 2024 Senior Living Report, Kentucky scores 27th in the nation for the overall comfort and quality of life it offers older adults. Across the report’s categories, the state has strong scores in Affordability, Senior Living & Housing and Health Care. Its overall cost of living is about 15% below the national median, and health care costs are nearly 10% lower than in the typical U.S. city, making it a budget-friendly option for those with limited incomes. Residents have access to high-performing medical facilities, such as the University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital and Baptist Health Lexington in Lexington and Norton Hospital in Louisville. The state also has competitively priced assisted living rates averaging $3,448 monthly

This introductory guide for assisted living in Kentucky highlights residential care rates in cities across the state, as well as some options for paying for care. It also lists some resources available to older adults and outlines the rules and regulations governing assisted living facilities within the state.

The Cost of Assisted Living in Kentucky

When trying to decide how to pay for assisted living, one of the first questions that comes up is "How much does it cost?" With the impact of inflation, it's more important than ever to have up-to-date information when making a financial plan for senior living. To help shed light on real senior living prices, Caring.com has compiled proprietary cost data from its network of over 75,000 senior living providers to offer insight into the average cost of assisted living in Kentucky and its 22 cities.

The Cost of Assisted Living in Kentucky's Top Cities

With less than a $900 range, costs are like a smooth ride for assisted living across Kentucky. Start your tour in the state capital of Frankfort at $2,950 and move west to the largest city of Louisville at $3,871. Head south to Bowling Green and find costs at $3,173, then round out your trip in Paducah for $3,805. Area and amenities differ greatly, though, so choose wisely.

Kentucky

$3,748

Louisville

$3,871

Frankfort

$2,950

Bowling Green

$3,173

Paducah

$3,805

Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Kentucky

Inflation has told quite a tale lately, especially regarding assisted living costs in different states. Kentucky set the tone with a 14% rise against the supporting character of the U.S. with its 9.5% advance. When peeking at neighboring states, the story gets interesting. Indiana barely appeared with its $3 difference, but Missouri threw in a plot twist at a 6% decrease in living costs! They went against the grain. Tennessee and West Virginia turned the page with 24% and 25.6% jumps, respectively. These diverse ups and downs make it important to plan ahead and stay informed.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
Kentucky$3,288$3,748$4,397
U.S. Average$4,070$4,459$4,802
Tennessee$3,383$4,201$4,543
Missouri$4,488$4,217$4,318
West Virginia$4,198$5,173$5,183
Indiana$4,360$4,357$4,699

The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living

The cost of senior living can change depending on the type of care you need. Independent living is the way to go when looking for the most budget-friendly option, costing around $2,794. Assisted living is a bit higher at $3,748, and memory care takes the top spot at $4,852. More is paid for extra assistance or specialized care. Don't forget to consider needs and preferences when incorporating unique requirements and budgets.

Assisted Living

$3,748

Memory Care

$4,852

Independent Living

$2,794

Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Kentucky?

Currently, Kentucky’s Medicaid program doesn’t cover assisted living services, either directly or through waiver programs. However, Medicaid provides comprehensive health care coverage for services, such as outpatient primary and specialty care, inpatient care, prescription medications, transportation and therapy. When used alongside Medicare, it can significantly reduce older adults’ out-of-pocket medical expenses. This may leave more money available for assisted living services. To obtain services, individuals must meet eligibility guidelines related to age, income and assets.

Does Medicare Cover Assisted Living in Kentucky?

The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted living in Kentucky. Assisted living facilities are considered to be a “residential setting” and not a “clinical setting,” (think nursing homes). While Medicare doesn’t cover the cost of care received in an assisted living community, it does still cover things like approved medications, doctor visits, medical equipment, etc., just like it would if you lived at home.

For more information about when Medicare can be used to pay for senior living in a nursing home, and for Medicare-related resources, see our guide to Nursing Homes in Kentucky.

Other Financial Assistance Options for Assisted Living in Kentucky

Seniors who are not eligible (due to location, financial situation, or other factors) for other types of financial assistance, do still have some options. See the table below for an overview of some of the most common ways to make Assisted Living affordable.

NameHow To ApplyHow It Works
Aid and AttendanceLearn 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 Assisted Living.
Reverse MortgagesLearn more about your options and how to apply at ftc.govIf you own a home, you may be able to use a reverse mortgage to help pay for Assisted Living. 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) InsuranceLearn 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 Assisted Living. 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 Assisted Living will not typically be eligible to sign up for a LTC insurance policy.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Kentucky

There are many resources in Kentucky 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 NamePhone NumberDescription
Kentucky Area Agencies on AgingKentucky's Area Agencies on Aging are nonprofit organizations dedicated to serving the needs of older adults and caregivers. They provide programs and services that promote independent living and help to enhance seniors' quality of life. These include care planning, transportation services, nutrition programs and caregiver support. They also offer information, referrals and benefits counseling. Kentucky's AAAs play a crucial role in advocating for seniors' rights and ensuring they have access to the resources they need to age with dignity.

Cash Assistance Programs

Cash assistance programs in Kentucky 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 NamePhone NumberDescription
Kentucky Lifeline Program800-234-9473The 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, Kentucky 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 NamePhone NumberDescription
Kentucky Home and Community Based Waiver844-784-5614Kentucky's Home and Community Based (HCB) waiver helps seniors live at home or in the community, delaying or preventing placement in a nursing home. It supports this goal through services such as personal care assistance, home-delivered meals, minor home adaptation, adult day health care and homemaker services.
Kentucky Transitions877-564-0330Another service under the waiver program for seniors is Kentucky Transitions. It helps seniors currently living in a nursing home or institution move into their own homes or communities. Once applicants have moved from the nursing facility and live on their own, they qualify for an HCB waiver for further assistance.

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 Kentucky seniors afford the nutritious food they need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Feeding Kentucky502-699-2656Seniors needing food assistance who can travel independently or have access to transportation may benefit from community food pantries. Generally operated by churches and nonprofit organizations, food pantries provide fresh and nonperishable food that seniors can use to create meals at home. Kentucky boasts numerous food pantries throughout the state. Each program operates under its own eligibility requirements and has varying hours of operation, so call ahead to confirm when to come and what kind of information to bring.
Kentucky Emergency Feeding Assistance Program (EFAP)800-327-6568The Kentucky Emergency Feeding Assistance Program supplements the diets of low-income seniors with healthy foods available at no cost. By meeting federally established income guidelines, seniors in Kentucky ages 60 and older can receive foods that enable them to create nutritious meals at home. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture administers this program, making nutritious foods available to local agencies for distribution to seniors in need.
Kentucky Meals on WheelsThe Kentucky Meals on Wheels service is part of the federally-funded Senior Nutrition Program in the state. Accepted Kentuckians aged 60 or older can get hot meals delivered to their homes. A home visit is first done to determine eligibility, such as that the resident is ill and homebound. A senior can apply to be a part of the program or can get nominated by a caregiver or loved one.
Kentucky Nutrition Program for the Elderly502-564-6930The Kentucky Nutrition Program for the Elderly provides one congregate or home-delivered meal per day to each Kentucky resident aged 60 and older. To qualify for home-delivered meals, seniors must be 60 or older, be unable to secure a congregate meal due to disability or Illness and have no one in the home to prepare them a nutritious meal regularly. Area Agencies on Aging and Independent Living administer this program statewide.
Kentucky Senior Farmer's Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)502-782-9238The Kentucky Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program provides seniors ages 60 and older with $50 checks to purchase fresh, unprocessed and locally grown foods. Seniors can use this money to purchase Kentucky-grown fruits, vegetables and fresh-cut herbs. These checks are redeemable at authorized farmers' markets throughout the state. To be eligible, seniors must have an income less than or equal to 185% of the federal poverty level.
Kentucky Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)855-306-8959The Kentucky Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program funds food purchases for low-income seniors. Individuals must be U.S. citizens, meet income eligibility requirements and have no more than $3,500 in resources, including cash and bank account assets. Qualifying seniors receive an electronic benefit transfer card, which they can use at a grocery store to purchase eligible foods.

Free Used Medical Equipment

Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Kentucky collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Kentucky Assistive Technology Service (KATS) Network Coordinating Center800-327-5287Project CARAT promotes the reuse of assistive technology (AT) and durable medical equipment (DME) by transitioning unused AT and DME to individuals who need them at no cost.

Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors

Kentucky 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 NamePhone NumberDescription
Kentucky Prescription Assistance Program800-633-8100The Kentucky Department for Public Health Division of Prevention and Quality Improvement (DPQI), Health Care Access Branch administers the Kentucky Prescription Assistance Program (KPAP). This free service helps qualified seniors obtain free or reduced-cost prescription drugs through assistance programs offered by drug manufacturers, discount pharmacy programs and discount drug programs.

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 Kentucky have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Kentucky Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants859-224-7353Seniors may qualify for a home repair grant of up to $10,000 in their lifetime. They must use their grant funds to pay for repairs and improvements that remove health or safety hazards.

Social Security Offices

Social Security offices in Kentucky 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 NamePhone NumberDescription
Kentucky Social SecuritySocial 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 Kentucky 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 NamePhone NumberDescription
Kentucky Homestead Exemption502-564-4581Qualifying Kentucky homeowners may be eligible for a homestead exemption deducted from their home and property's assessed value.

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. Kentucky retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Kentucky Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)800-456-3452LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps cover the home heating and cooling costs of eligible low income seniors and other Kentucky households. The Kentucky LIHEAP program initially uses annual funds to cover heating costs, then covers cooling costs if there are still funds available.

Veteran's Services

Kentucky 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 NamePhone NumberDescription
Kentucky VA Benefits and Health CareThe Department of Veterans Affairs provides specialized medical care for senior vets throughout Kentucky. Primary VA Medical Centers, outpatient care sites and administrative buildings are located in Lexington, Fort Thomas, Louisville and other major cities. Memory care, skilled nursing and in-home medical and home care services may be financially subsidized for veterans over 65. Kentucky's Department of Veterans Affairs includes a total of 23 accredited benefits representatives who serve veterans in all 120 counties statewide.

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Kentucky

Assisted living facilities in Kentucky have to be certified annually by the Kentucky Department for Aging and Independent Living. This department enforces rules and regulations to ensure a safe, comfortable environment for residents.  

TopicRule
Assisted Living Service Plan RequirementsBefore a prospective resident moves in, the assisted living facility is required to complete a functional needs assessment that outlines the individual’s ability to perform activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living. It also must obtain a medical evaluation completed by the individual’s primary health care provider. Based on these assessments, the facility creates a service plan. This plan is updated annually or whenever the individual’s needs change.
Assisted Living Admission RequirementsTo be admitted into an assisted living facility, individuals must be ambulatory or mobile nonambulatory, unless they’re nonambulatory due to a temporary condition. They also must not be a danger to themselves, staff members or other residents. 
Assisted Living Scope of CareAssisted living facilities provide residents with access to services according to the lease agreement, including: Assistance with activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living Three meals and snacks daily Help with self-administered medications Scheduled daily social activities  Residents can contract with third-party providers to obtain skilled nursing services beyond the facility’s scope.
Assisted Living Medicaid PolicyCurrently, Kentucky’s Medicaid program doesn’t pay for assisted living services directly or under any waiver programs.
Assisted Living Facility RequirementsAssisted living facilities are required to adhere to building and life safety codes, and they must have central dining and living areas and laundry units for residents. Single- and double-occupancy living units must have at least 200 square feet, and each unit must have at least one unfurnished room with a lockable door, a full private bathroom, a telephone hookup, an emergency response system and a window facing outside. A maximum of two residents are allowed per room, and only by mutual agreement. Facilities built prior to 2000 are exempt from these rules but must have at least one bathtub or shower per five residents. In facilities with more than 20 living units, residents must have individual climate controls. In smaller facilities, the temperature can be set no lower than 71 degrees and no higher than 81 degrees.
Medication Management RegulationsMedication administration isn’t permitted in assisted living facilities, but staff members can provide help with self-administered medications that are prepared or directed by the resident, their designated representative or a licensed health care professional not employed by the facility. 
Staffing RequirementsThere are no mandated staffing ratios for assisted living facilities in Kentucky, but facilities must have at least one awake staff member on-site at all times and enough caregivers to meet residents' needs around the clock.
Staff Training RequirementsFacilities must provide orientation to all new employees, including management and staff, within 90 days of their hire date. This orientation must cover topics relevant to their assigned duties.
Background Checks for Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities must apply for a criminal records check from the Kentucky Administrative Offices of the Court, the Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet or the KARES screening program no more than 45 days prior to and no more than seven days following a new employee’s hire date. Facilities must also check the Central Registry, the Adult Protective Services Caregiver Misconduct Registry and the Nurse Aide Abuse Registry upon the hire date and again annually.
Requirements for Reporting AbuseFacilities are required to maintain written policies on reporting and recording instances of abuse, neglect or exploitation. Kentucky is a mandatory reporting state, meaning that anyone who suspects elder abuse is legally required to report it. Assisted living staff members report suspected or confirmed cases of abuse to the appropriate Complaint Coordinator within the Division of Health Care. Residents, family members and visitors can file anonymous complaints by calling the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ 24-hour elder abuse hotline at (877) 597-2331.

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Caring.com

Caring.com is a leading online destination for caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. We offer thousands of original articles, helpful tools, advice from more than 50 leading experts, a community of caregivers, and a comprehensive directory of caregiving services.

 

The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

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