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In-Home Care in Oklahoma

Oklahoma is situated in the South Central region of the nation and has nearly 4 million residents, a little over 16% of whom are retirement-aged. It’s an attractive option for those whose goal is to remain in the privacy and comfort of their own homes throughout their retirement years, particularly due to its affordability. Its overall cost of living is 15% cheaper than that of the typical U.S. state, and its tax laws are retiree-friendly, helping seniors maintain their financial stability.

Oklahoma is home to numerous organizations and programs that provide free and low-cost in-home care, along with high-quality home care agencies. These agencies provide care that includes non-medical services, such as housekeeping, meal preparation and personal care, and they charge approximately $4,862 for monthly services. This care is different from home health care, which features skilled nursing services.

In this guide, we provide comprehensive information on home care in Oklahoma, including how much this type of care costs in surveyed cities throughout the state and some options you may have for paying for services. Our guide also gives an overview of the state’s Medicaid program, nonprofit agencies that serve older adults, and answers to frequently asked questions about in-home care.

The Cost of In-Home Care in Oklahoma

According to the 2021 Genworth Cost of Care Survey, which provides long-term care cost data for states and communities across the nation, seniors in Oklahoma pay $4,862 per month for in-home care. This is slightly lower than the national rate of $4,957 per month, but it’s fairly high compared to rates in surrounding states. In Arkansas, care costs are several hundred dollars lower at $4,185 per month. In Kansas and Texas, respective average rates come in at $4,580 and $4,576, and in New Mexico, fees are slightly higher at $4,605. Oklahoma may be a cost-effective alternative to obtaining care in Colorado, where fees exceed the national monthly median at $6,387.

Oklahoma

$4862

The United States

$4957

Kansas

$4580

Arkansas

$4185

Texas

$4576

New Mexico

$4605

Colorado

$6387

Home care costs in surveyed cities throughout Oklahoma are consistent with the state median. In the state capital, Oklahoma City, fees are a little higher than the state average but equal to the national rate at $4,957. In Enid, those who obtain in-home care pay $4,862 for services, and in Tulsa, rates are a little more competitive at $4,767. Lawton is the cheapest surveyed city in Oklahoma to access home care, with agencies charging approximately $3,813 per month.

Tulsa

$4767

Oklahoma City

$4957

Lawton

$3813

While home care rates in Oklahoma are affordable relative to the national average, this is one of the most expensive long-term care options within the state. Agencies charge approximately $4,862 per month for non-medical in-home care and specialized home health care. Assisted living, which provides the same scope of care in a residential community setting, costs about $1,000 less per month at $3,855. Older adults who want to live in their own homes but are working with restrictive budgets may consider adult day health care, which provides personal care in a daytime community setting for $1,495 per month. Obtaining care at home is an affordable alternative to nursing home placement, which costs $5,475 monthly.

In-Home Care

$4862

Home Health Care

$4862

Nursing Home Care

$5475

Assisted Living

$3855

Adult Day Health Care

$1495

Does Medicaid Cover Home Care in Oklahoma?

SoonerCare, Oklahoma’s Medicaid program, pays for a range of in-home care services directly and through a waiver program. These services help you remain safely and comfortably in your own home and avoid assisted living or nursing home placement.

State Plan Personal Care is part of the regular Medicaid program and covers daily living activities in the individual’s home. Through this program, beneficiaries get help with a range of non-medical services, including:

  • Getting into and out of bed 
  • Grooming 
  • Bathing 
  • Toileting 
  • Meal planning and preparation 
  • Eating 
  • Laundry 
  • Transportation 
  • Light housekeeping 
  • Errands and grocery shopping 

Everyone who qualifies for Medicaid and meets medical level of care criteria is eligible for these services, regardless of their age. There are no enrollment caps or wait lists. To obtain these services, you must complete an application for in-home assistance, which you can do online or by calling the Medicaid Services Unit at (800) 435-4711.

Medicaid has strict financial criteria that many people don’t meet, despite needing help with paying for in-home care. To help those with higher income levels obtain coverage, SoonerCare administers the ADvantage Program Waiver and the Medically Fragile program. These programs are for those who need a nursing home level of care but are able to remain in their own homes through the services these programs pay for.  

Home Care Waiver Programs in Oklahoma

ADvantage Waiver Program 

The ADvantage Waiver Program is available to older adults who qualify for a nursing home level of care but want to obtain the services they need in their own homes. It offers comprehensive coverage that includes: 

  • Case management 
  • Personal care 
  • Skilled nursing 
  • Occupational, physical, speech and respiratory therapy 
  • Adult day health care 
  • Home-delivered meals 
  • Respite  
  • Home modifications 
  • Specialized medical equipment and supplies 

To be eligible for the ADvantage Waiver Program, applicants must meet financial eligibility guidelines. They must live in their own home or that of a family member, and they must require a nursing home level of care as determined by the nursing staff of the Aging Services Division. This waiver isn’t open to those diagnosed with intellectual disabilities or cognitive impairments. For information on how to apply, you can call the Oklahoma Department of Human Services at (877) 751-2972. 

Medically Fragile Program 

The Medically Fragile Program provides home-based care for those who are eligible for nursing home placement. While the ADvantage Waiver Program is for those who primarily need non-medical in-home care, this program pays for more specialized services to help older adults avoid the need to transition to an institutional setting. Some services it covers include: 

  • Case management 
  • Home modifications 
  • Home-delivered meals 
  • Hospice 
  • Prescription drugs 
  • Specialized medical equipment and supplies 
  • Therapy services 

This program is open to those aged 19 and over who need a hospital or skilled nursing level of care. They must live in their own homes or in an assisted living facility, and they must meet financial eligibility criteria. To get more information or to apply, call the Oklahoma Department of Human Services at (877) 751-2972. 

How to Know If You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Oklahoma

SoonerCare applicants must meet financial eligibility criteria. Single applicants may have an annual income of up to $18,768. If both people in a two-person household are applying for coverage, the income limit is a little higher at $25,272. All forms of income count toward this limit, including public benefits. Single applicants may have up to $2,000 in countable assets, and applicants in two-person households may have up to $3,000. Certain assets don’t count toward this limit, including your primary residence, personal belongings and vehicle.

2022 Basic Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Oklahoma

NameIncome limits*Asset limits
Single Person $18,768$2,000
Two-Person Household $25,272$3,000

*Per year 

SoonerCare has expanded to cover any applicant who meets eligibility requirements, regardless of their age. In addition to meeting financial criteria, applicants must meet additional requirements, including:

  • They must be U.S. citizens or permanent legal residents
  • They must be permanent residents of Oklahoma

How to Apply for Medicaid in Oklahoma

You can apply for SoonerCare online by visiting OKDHSLive!, the state’s online benefits portal. Alternately, you can fill out and submit an application at your nearest DHS office or apply over the phone by calling the department at (877) 751-2972.

What Information You Will Need 

To ensure a quick and simple application process, you should be certain to have supporting documents on hand. These may include:

  • Bank statements with checking and savings account balances 
  • Social Security card 
  • Proof of any other health insurance, including Medicare 
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship, including a birth certificate, U.S. passport or voter registration card 
  • If you’re not a U.S. citizen, proof of legal permanent residency 
  • Life insurance policy 
  • Statements of stocks, bonds or certificates of deposit 
  • Copy of vehicle title 
  • Copy of the title(s) for investment or vacation properties 
  • Proof of all earned and unearned income 

How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid

There are several agencies available to help you apply for Medicaid and one of its waiver programs. The following table highlights statewide Medicaid resources that can assist you in obtaining coverage, understanding your health benefits and resolving issues, such as denied coverage.

ProgramContactAreaServedServices provided
SoonerCare Helpline(800) 987-7767StatewideThe SoonerCare Helpline provides you with personalized assistance with filling out the online SoonerCare application or with understanding the in-home care coverage included in the program.
Oklahoma Health Care Authority(405) 522-7300StatewideThe Oklahoma Health Care Authority administers the state’s Medicaid program. Through its website, you can find health care providers in your area, access the MySoonerCare Portal and see an overview of the SoonerCare programs that cover long-term care.
DHS ADvantage Administration(800) 435-4711StatewideThe DHS ADvantage Administration administers the ADvantage Waiver. It has a toll-free helpline you can call for information on the program’s coverage for in-home care, as well as assistance with finding providers in your area.
American Council on AgingOnline Contact FormStatewideThe American Council on Aging is a nonprofit advocacy organization that helps older adults get the services they need to live as safely and independently as possible. It publishes easy-to-read information on SoonerCare’s eligibility guidelines and seniors’ options for getting coverage if they exceed income and asset limits.

Does Medicare Cover In-Home Care in Oklahoma?

In general, Medicare does not cover the cost of non-medical home care. That being said, there are situations in which Medicare provides some coverage for medical home care, referred to as “Home Healthcare.” There are several eligibility restrictions for coverage, including that individuals must be homebound and have a referral from their doctor specifically for home healthcare services.

Below is an overview of some of the skilled medical professionals whose in-home services are typically covered by Medicare – for more in-depth information, refer to our Guide to Home Healthcare.

  • Physical Therapists: Physical therapy is used to help patients recover from injuries (broken bones, knee injuries, etc.), treat ongoing conditions such as arthritis, and assist in recovery from surgeries and procedures such as a knee or hip replacement.
  • Visiting Nurses: Licensed nurses can provide a number of medical services for those who don’t need to stay in the hospital, but do need regular medical services such as wound care, changing feeding tubes, etc.
  • Occupational Therapists: Occupational therapists help seniors regain or maintain the ability to accomplish normal, daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing, eating, and other daily activities.
  • Speech Therapists: Speech therapists help seniors who are struggling to adequately communicate due to a stroke, dementia, or any other cause regain the ability to functionally communicate using a variety of means. Additionally, speech therapists help to keep seniors independent by modifying diets, teaching special techniques to swallow safely, and retraining associated muscles.

As mentioned above, in-home care is distinctly different from home healthcare. But, there can be some overlap in services between the two types of care. So, while Medicare doesn’t cover non-medical in-home care, there are in-home care services that may be covered in special circumstances when they’re provided in conjunction with home healthcare (such as an occupational therapist helping with eating or dressing)

Other Financial Assistance Options for In-Home Care in Oklahoma

While the above programs help many people finance in-home care, they will not cover all costs for everyone. There are other ways to pay for in-home care, including out-of-pocket arrangements with siblings, annuities, reverse mortgages, private insurance and more. Read Caring.com’s Guide to In-Home Care Costs to learn more about these alternative payment options.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Oklahoma

If your goal is to remain in your own home for as long as possible, Oklahoma has numerous agencies that can help. The following table highlights advocacy organizations, information and referral specialists and options counselors who can help you find affordable in-home care services and low-cost community-based alternatives to private-pay care. 

ResourceContactAreaServedService
Area Agencies on Aging(800) 211-2116StatewideOklahoma is home to 11 Area Agencies on Aging, each of which serves those aged 60 and over in their designated regions through provisions of the Older Americans Act. Seniors access a range of services through their local agencies, including information and referrals for community-based services, prescription drug assistance, options counseling, transportation and home-delivered meals. Some agencies provide low-cost in-home care for qualifying individuals or operate senior centers where older adults access recreational opportunities, social services and wellness clinics.
Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Inc.(888) 534-5243StatewideLegal Aid Services of Oklahoma is a statewide nonprofit organization that helps older adults access free civil legal assistance. Through the organization, seniors can talk to a legal professional for help with accessing public benefits and programs that may help them remain in their homes. These may include property tax relief, Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income and the optional state supplement.
Oklahoma Senior Insurance Counseling Program(800) 763-2828StatewideSHIP provides free health insurance options counseling for older adults in Oklahoma. It's staffed primarily by trained volunteers who can answer questions about Medicaid and its waivers, long-term care insurance, Medicare and private Medicare plans, which can help seniors find ways to pay for in-home care. SHIP advisors can also help seniors understand their medical bills and resolve problems, such as double charges, denied health insurance claims and canceled Medicaid or Medicare coverage.
Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs(855) 701-6382StatewideThe Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs administers a range of state benefits for qualifying veterans, including income and property tax exemptions, which may help individuals afford long-term care. The department also operates county offices throughout the state that provide in-person and over-the-phone assistance with accessing local services, such as counseling, transportation, prescription drug assistance and emergency financial assistance, as well as federal VA benefits, such as pension and Aid and Attendance.
Oklahoma Association of Community Action Agencies(405) 949-1495StatewideThe Oklahoma Association of Community Action Agencies operates Community Action Programs throughout the state. Through these local nonprofit programs, older adults access a range of services that help them remain in their homes. Services vary by region but may include home weatherization services, utility bill assistance, rent and mortgage assistance, home-delivered meals, home modifications and repairs and friendly visitor services. In some cases, individuals pay a nominal fee for the services they receive.
Meals on Wheels Association of Oklahoma(918) 921-3577StatewideThe Meals on Wheels Association of Oklahoma provides home-delivered meals to housebound individuals throughout the state. Menus, fees and eligibility requirements may vary by location, but in general, meals are available to those who are unable to shop for or prepare meals themselves.

In-Home Care Laws and Regulations in Oklahoma

The Home Services Division of the Oklahoma State Department of Health is responsible for licensing and regulating home care agencies in accordance with the Home Care Act. The following table provides an overview of the applicable rules and regulations.

TopicRule
Scope of CareOklahoma HCAs may provide various nonmedical care and support services to seniors so they can remain living at home. Home health aides can assist seniors in completing daily living activities, such as bathing, toileting, dressing, ambulation and eating. Supportive home assistants can provide companionship and standby assistance to ambulatory seniors, complete light housekeeping tasks and plan and prepare meals.
Care Plan RequirementsEach prospective HCA client must be assessed by a doctor or registered nurse to determine if the agency can provide the required services to meet the individual's needs. A plan of care must be developed based on this assessment in consultation with the client or their representative. This plan should detail the services to be provided and their frequency. An RN must review the plan at least every six months and make necessary updates based on the client's care needs.
Medication Management RequirementsHome health aides and supportive home assistants employed by an HCA may not administer medications to clients.
Staff Screening RequirementsDirect care staff hired by HCAs must pass criminal background and DOH nurse aide registry checks prior to working with clients. Initial and annual testing for tuberculosis also must be conducted.
Staff Training RequirementsHome health aides must complete a 75-hour state-approved training program and pass a skills and competency evaluation to gain certification and be placed on the DOH nurse aide registry. Supportive home assistants must complete RN-led, agency-based training and successfully pass a DOH-approved competency test.
Medicaid CoverageSoonerCare, the Oklahoma Medicaid program, covers the cost of in-home care services for eligible individuals through its State Plan Personal Care program and ADvantage Program Waiver.
Reporting AbuseSuspected neglect, abuse or exploitation of a vulnerable senior should be reported to Adult Protective Services. Reports can be made by contacting a online portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Find an In-Home Care Provider in Oklahoma

Whether you are looking for yourself or a loved one, finding a quality home care provider can be a stressful process. When you hire an in-home care aide you’re placing a lot of trust in the hands of the person by inviting them into your home, so you’ll want to be diligent in your search. At Caring.com, we’re here to help – we’ve created a helpful checklist below that can help guide you through the process of both determining your needs and finding a home care agency that will provide the best care possible.

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Finding a Home Care Provider Checklist

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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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