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Assisted Living Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has a larger-than-average senior community, with 18.7% of almost 13 million inhabitants aged 65 and older. The state’s cost of living is eight points below the national average. The state also has several excellent hospitals, including Penn Presbyterian in Philadelphia, nationally ranked in 12 specialties, and UMPC Presbyterian Shadyside in Pittsburgh, nationally ranked in 10 specialties.
Caring.com’s 2024 Senior Living Report ranks Pennsylvania 20th overall for senior living. While the state is 13th in housing for seniors and 19th in community involvement, it’s 34th in health care and 42nd in transportation. Assisted living in Pennsylvania falls into Assisted Living Residences (ALR) and Personal Care Homes (PCH). The two types of communities are very similar and both offer personal care services typical of assisted living. However, ALRs offer more advanced care services the PCHs, making them more adaptable to residents’ changing needs over time. For this reason, PCHs may cost slightly less than ALRs. The monthly average for assisted living in Pennsylvania is $4,100, which is $400 a month cheaper than the United States average.
This guide for assisted living in Pennsylvania presents seniors with information on assisted living costs and using Medicaid to cover any of those costs. Seniors can learn about the rules and regulations that govern assisted living in Pennsylvania, and they will find several free resources that provide information, advocacy and services.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania and its 101 cities.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Pennsylvania's Top Cities
Pennsylvania’s top cities show a range of care prices. For instance, Philadelphia is expensive at $5,346, well above the state average, whereas Harrisburg ($4,821) has the lowest costs in the table comparison. Likewise, Pittsburgh ($4,979) and Erie ($4,891) are above the state average but are on par with costs in Harrisburg. With ranges like these, it is essential to research care costs across the state before committing to a specific destination.
Pennsylvania
$4,653
Philadelphia
$5,346
Pittsburgh
$4,979
Harrisburg
$4,821
Erie
$4,891
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Pennsylvania
Because inflation is a norm in modern economies, it is vital to check how it impacts costs. Between 2022 and 2023, care costs rose by a significant 19.06% in Pennsylvania from $3,908 to $4,653. In contrast, the national average increase only grew by 9.55% to $4,459.
Like Pennsylvania, two states underwent inflationary increases. Care costs in New York rose by 14.86% to $4,699, while Maryland showed a 10.36% rise. However, two neighboring states experienced substantial declines — New Jersey (-11.64%) and Delaware (-12.86%). These changes indicate a need to weigh options before deciding on assisted living locations.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $3,908 | $4,653 | $5,016 |
| U.S. Average | $4,070 | $4,459 | $4,802 |
| New York | $4,091 | $4,699 | $5,431 |
| New Jersey | $5,857 | $5,175 | $5,992 |
| Delaware | $5,264 | $4,587 | $4,885 |
| Maryland | $4,613 | $5,091 | $5,153 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
The cost of senior living in Pennsylvania can vary significantly based on the level of care provided. Independent living features the least involved care programs, and stands at an average of $3,215 per month. For seniors seeking memory care, the more intensive supervision and specialized services brings the average up to $5,201. Assisted living provides a compromise at an average of $4,653 — all of which is highly dependent on the amenities and accommodations on offer. Because prices and care levels will vary so drastically, it's vital to do research on all available options.
Assisted Living
$4,653
Memory Care
$5,201
Independent Living
$3,215
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, Medicaid is known as Medical Assistance. It doesn’t fund any care services or provide financial assistance to seniors living in ALRs. The only assistance offered in Pennsylvania for anyone living in an assisted living facility is a state supplement for those receiving Social Security insurance.
State Supplemental Payment Program in Pennsylvania
The state supplemental payment program is available to eligible seniors who reside in a Personal Care Boarding Home or in an assisted living facility (known as a Medicaid facility), although the payments available differ greatly. Pennsylvania adds the state supplement to your SSI payment, which is sent to you directly. To receive the state supplemental payment, you must first apply for SSI.
How To Know If You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Pennsylvania
A single senior can’t apply for SSI if they earn more than $794 a month, while the income of a two-person household cannot exceed $1,191. When one person is applying, asset limits are $2,000. If both members of a two-person household are applying, the asset limit is $3,000. Not all SSI recipients receive the maximum amount. Your payment may be lower if you have other income.
SSI Income Limits for Seniors in Pennsylvania
| 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 | $148,620 |
| Two Person | 2 | $65,808 | $4,000*** |
*Depending on the facility setting, a recipient may not be able to keep income up to this level.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
***Income is limited to $2,742 per month per spouse.
****In addition to the asset limits listed, Pennsylvania allows an extra $6,000 exemption. However, if an applicant has income more than $2,523/mo., the asset limit is $2,400 rather than the total asset limit of $8,000 ($2,000 plus $6,000 disregard).
To be eligible for SSI in Pennsylvania, you must be:
- Aged at least 65
- Blind
- Disabled
And:
- Have limited income
- Have limited resources
- Be a U.S. citizen or national or one in certain categories of aliens
- Be a resident of Pennsylvania
- Is not absent from the country for a full calendar month or 30 consecutive days or more
- Is not confined to an institution (such as a prison) at government expense
- Applies for any other cash benefits or payments for which they may be eligible, such as Medicaid
How to Apply for SSI in Pennsylvania
There are several ways to apply for SSI in Pennsylvania, including:
- Telephone: Call (800) 772-1213 to make an appointment.
- In-person: Visit your local Social Security office.
Information You Will Need
When you apply for Medicaid, you will need to present the following information:
- Proof of age
- Proof of state residency, with no requirement regarding how long an individual needs to have lived in Pennsylvania
- Proof of citizenship, refugee status or lawfully admitted alien
- Proof of all income sources
- Proof of living arrangements
- Medical sources
- Work history
How To Get Help Applying for Medicaid
For Pennsylvanians who have questions about applying for Medicaid, several agencies and programs can help with the process. These resources can help older Pennsylvanians find the right program for their needs, appeal Medicaid prescription denials and learn how to understand the available benefits.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Social Security | (800) 772-1213 | Visit the website to get information about online services. You can apply for benefits, get useful information, find publications and get answers to FAQs. If you don't have access to the Internet please call the contact number. |
| Information Referral Tool | (800) 753-8827 | This tool helps you or your caregiver identify beneficial long-term services and supports based on your specific needs. If you have any questions or require any assistance, please call the PA Link Call Center. |
| Pennsylvania Health Law Project | (800) 274-3258 | PHLP's Helpline is the central point of contact for seniors who need help resolving problems with Medicaid, such as coverage or service stoppage or reduction. |
Does Medicare Cover Assisted Living in Pennsylvania?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted living in Pennsylvania. 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 Pennsylvania.
Paying for Assisted Living Facilities in Pennsylvania
While many families use their own funds or personal assets to pay for assisted living, there are plenty of additional options to cover these costs. Our How to Pay for Assisted Living page includes more information.
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Pennsylvania 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Living Independence For the Elderly (LIFE) | LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) is a Pennsylvania care program that offers an extensive package of medical and supportive services to seniors aged 55 and older. Care services include dental, audiology, in-home care and medical transportation. To be eligible for LIFE, seniors must live in an area served by a LIFE provider and meet the standard of care needed for a nursing home. | |
| Pennsylvania Nursing Home Transition Waiver | 800-753-8827 | The Nursing Home Transition waiver is designed for Medical Assistance enrollees who are living in nursing homes and want to transition back to their homes and communities. |
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Pennsylvania
There are many resources in Pennsylvania 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Area Agencies on Aging | Each Area Agency on Aging in Pennsylvania operates under the Pennsylvania Department of Aging. Services available to seniors include legal assistance, Medicare counseling and prescription assistance. They can also access information regarding financial exploitation, protective services and the long-term care ombudsman program. Additionally, seniors can receive help with housing and meals. The agency runs the Senior Community Service Employment Program, which is open to qualifying Pennsylvanians who are 55+. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Pennsylvania 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania 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. |
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 Pennsylvania seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Meals on Wheels | Meals on Wheels provides free home meal deliveries to seniors through local volunteers. | |
| Pennsylvania Department of Aging Senior Meals | 717-783-1550 | The Pennsylvania Department of Aging Senior Meals program provides congregate noontime lunches at over 500 different senior centers in the state. In addition to the congregate meal programs, the state can also provide home delivery of meals to homebound seniors. To participate in either program, adults must be 60 years of age or up, or married to an individual who meets the age requirement. While there's no charge for this service, donations are accepted. |
| Pennsylvania Senior Food Box Program | 800-468-2433 | The Pennsylvania Senior Food Box Program provides supplemental shelf-stable foods to qualifying individuals aged 60 or older as a way to enhance their diets and overall nutrition. Boxes may contain pantry staples such as peanut butter, pasta, dry beans and canned fish. Pennsylvanians must fall within a specific income range to qualify. Individuals who have applied and are deemed eligible can receive the boxes via their local food bank. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Pennsylvania 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF) | 484-674-0506 | This statewide nonprofit organization helps seniors access necessary assistive technology. It provides information about possible sources of financial assistance, including private and public grant programs. PATF also offers zero-interest loans of up to $7,000 for eligible seniors. These loans may be used to purchase assistive technologies, such as hearing aids and vision devices. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Pennsylvania 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Department of Aging's Health & Wellness Programs | 717-783-1550 | Pennsylvania's Department of Aging offers a robust selection of Health & Wellness Programs for older adults. Seniors can take various programs to benefit both their physical and mental health. Fitness programs focus on needs such as nutrition, strength, balance and fall prevention. Medication management and programs to help seniors cope with chronic illnesses or pain are also available. On the mental health side, seniors can work to prevent depression and make lifestyle changes to support wellness. |
| Pennsylvania PACE and PACENET Prescription Assistance Programs | 800-225-7223 | These Prescription Assistance Programs give older Pennsylvanians access to low-cost prescription medications. Eligible seniors pay a small copay for each drug, reducing out-of-pocket medication costs. Alternatively, PACENET offers low-cost prescriptions to seniors who exceed the income limits for the regular PACE program. |
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 Pennsylvania have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | Pennsylvania's Weatherization Assistance Program provides funds for increasing energy efficiency and reducing energy costs. Participants may qualify for minor repairs, attic or window insulation, caulking, heating/cooling system replacement or other weatherization services |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Pennsylvania 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania's Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | 717-783-8975 | LTC ombudsmen fulfill several roles. They act as advocates for seniors in conflict with long-term care facilities. They investigate complaints of abuse and neglect made by seniors or caregivers, and when their investigations are complete, they attempt to negotiate a resolution between the senior and the facility. LTC ombudsmen also advise seniors on billing disputes and applying for Medicare or Medicaid. Ombudsmen can provide information on available resources and educate the broader community about the rights of seniors in LTC communities. |
| Pennsylvania Health Law Project (PHLP) | 800-274-3258 | The Pennsylvania Health Law Project works with low-income individuals, including seniors and persons with disabilities, to help them access publicly funded healthcare services and ensure their rights are protected. The project can assist with issues related to managed care, Medicaid eligibility, access to Medicaid services and long-term services and supports. |
| Pennsylvania SeniorLAW Center Access Services | 877-727-7529 | Pennsylvania seniors requiring help with civil law matters can turn to the SeniorLAW Center for assistance. The Center can provide direct representation on some issues and information on problems with housing, exploitation or abuse of seniors, powers of attorney, wills, advanced medical directives and many consumer issues. The Center cannot help with criminal matters, divorce cases or lawsuits. |
| Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network | 717-236-9486 | PLAN helps low-income seniors gain access to free legal services throughout Pennsylvania. Residents can get help with age discrimination, unlawful evictions, bankruptcy and many other civil issues. Services may include legal education and court representation. To receive assistance, seniors must have an income that's 125% or lower than the poverty level. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Pennsylvania 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Help at Home (OPTIONS) | 717-783-1550 | The Pennsylvania Options Program helps seniors 60+ in the state to obtain financial aid for their care needs, whether it's home help, Meals on Wheels or nursing home care. The senior's health and physical abilities are assessed. The program then looks at funding options to cover some or all of their care. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Pennsylvania 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania East Stroudsburg University Life Long Learner | 877-230-5547 | East Stroudsburg University is keeping seniors mentally sharp and connected to the local community by allowing them to enroll in courses tuition-free. The Life Long Learner initiative has been operating in the city since 1981, and accepts legal residents of Pennsylvania aged 60+ who are not employed full-time. Program participants receive free tuition as long as they are enrolled in no more than six credits (which is typically two courses) per semester and have a non-degree status. |
| Pennsylvania West Chester University's Senior Citizen Program | 610-436-3541 | Located about 15 miles from Phoenixville, West Chester University offers lifelong learning opportunities for seniors. Retirees who are 60 years of age or older can sign up for tuition-free courses, as long as space is available. Possible areas of study include art history, economics and mathematics. Seniors may be responsible for other costs associated with their studies, such as textbooks. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Pennsylvania 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program | 888-222-9190 | The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue offers a property tax abatement for senior homeowners and tenants. The maximum rebate ranges from $250 to $650 per year for homeowners. Renters receive a rebate of $500 to $650. |
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. Pennsylvania 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Heating Assistance/Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | 866-857-7095 | LIHEAP offers cash grants to help low-income Pennsylvania residents pay their energy bills. The program also offers crisis grants to replace broken heating equipment, prevent service disconnection and address hazardous conditions. |
Veteran's Services
Pennsylvania 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania VA Benefits and Health Care | Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and their spouses are eligible for services through the Pennsylvania VA Benefits and Health Care program. This agency can ensure veterans have access to all eligible benefits, services and programs. The state operates six senior living facilities for veterans that offer personal care, memory care and skilled nursing services, as well as several VA medical centers and dozens of VA health care clinics. |
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Pennsylvania
The Department of Human Services, Bureau of Human Services Licensing maintains rules and regulations governing Assisted Living Residences (ALRs) and Personal Care Homes (PCHs) in Pennsylvania. The state government highly regulates these communities and conducts regular inspections to ensure that facilities follow these regulations.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Licensing Types | An ALR is required to promote “aging in place” with on-site services: hospice care, cognitive support, and skilled nursing. A PCH is not mandated to offer these supplemental services. An ALR must meet a specific minimum size for its public spaces and living units, while a PCH does not have size guidelines. No more than two residents can share a living unit in an ALR, while a PCH allows up to four residents. Both community types require staff to complete annual training. |
| Assisted Living Service Plan Requirements | New residents must be medically evaluated at least 60 days before ALR admission. A licensed doctor, physician's assistant or nurse practitioner must perform the evaluation. The evaluation includes a complete health check, including information on allergies, current medications and immunizations. When a senior has lived in the ALR for 30 days, the facility administrator will reevaluate them. This evaluation is used to create the support plan for the new resident. |
| Assisted Living Admission Requirements | Some seniors are prohibited from admission to an ALR. These include seniors who have reported infectious diseases that require isolation or nursing care. Seniors who require 24-hour continuous skilled nursing care are also prohibited. The state licensing agency may grant exceptions to these rules. Some ALR facilities include a special care unit designed for residents with memory care issues. Proof of memory impairment is required for admission to these units. |
| Assisted Living Scope of Care | ALRs can provide one of two kinds of core services in Pennsylvania. The first includes an Independent Core Package that provides 24-hour supervision, social activities and help with laundry, grocery shopping and cognitive support. The Enhanced Core Package consists of all services offered in the Independent Package plus assistance with ADLs, transportation when needed, medication administration and helping residents self-administer their prescriptions. |
| Assisted Living Medicaid Policy | Pennsylvania does not cover room and board services of an assisted living residence in its Medicaid program or waiver programs. If the community accepts a resident that is eligible for SSI payments, the rent must not exceed the resident's monthly income less any personal needs expenses. |
| Assisted Living Facility Requirements | Living requirements for ALR include well-lit interiors with additional markings for visually impaired individuals, handrails, ramps and other accessibility devices. ALRs need a common dining area and three meals a day. Individual rooms should include a fully equipped bathroom ( sink, toilet, and shower or tub) exterior locking doors unless, individually controlled thermostats, electrical outlets that support small appliances, a phone jack, and storage space. |
| Medication Management Regulations | Residents evaluated and approved by the appropriate staff can administer their own medications. These medications must be kept in a locked box in the resident's room, out of the reach of others. Staff can remind residents to take their medication daily or periodically. For residents who cannot self-administer medication, a licensed staff member or student nurse under the authority of a registered nurse will administer it. |
| Staffing Requirements | One staff member should always be awake and on duty. Direct-care staff should provide one hour of care to each resident, and two hours of care to any resident with mobility issues. A licensed nurse must work on site or be on call. ALRs need to work with a registered dietitian. The ALR's administrator or director must be present at least 36 working hours a week. For every 35 residents in an ALR, at least one staff member trained in first-aid and CPR must be present. |
| Staff Training Requirements | All staff should be trained in fire safety and emergency preparedness. Personnel may not provide direct care until they have completed 18 hours of general training, with an additional 16 hours of annual training. All training records and training plans must be available for inspection. |
| Background Check for Staff in Pennsylvania | Both ALRs and PCHs require criminal history and background checks under Pennsylvania's adult protective services statutes and regulations. The facility must keep proof of criminal histories and background checks on file. |
| Requirements for Reporting Abuse | The ALR will inform each resident of their right to lodge complaints of abuse or neglect without the threat of retaliation. All residents should understand how to file a complaint. Any allegation of elder abuse or neglect must be reported to the Pennsylvania Department of Aging. A member of the state's Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program will investigate the complaint. The state's hotline number is available 24 hours a day at (800) 490-8505. |
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