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Assisted Living in Washington
Washington, the northwesternmost state in the country, is home to several national parks and the iconic Space Needle. The state has a population of 7.7 million, of which more than 1.1 million are seniors. Washington has two high-performing hospitals, including the University of Washington Medical Center and the Virginia Mason Medical Center.
Our 2024 Senior Living Report ranks Washington 40th. In terms of the availability of healthcare and patient satisfaction, the state is close to the national average. However, housing costs are above average and the state has a high crime rate, making it a less desirable place to live. The air and water quality in Washington is above average, though, which may be of importance to seniors living with certain medical conditions. Seniors in Washington pay an average of $6,000 per month for assisted living.
This guide covers the cost of assisted living in Washington and discusses some options seniors have for covering their care costs. In addition, it lists agencies that provide information, advocacy and support to aging adults living in the state.
Find Assisted Living Options Near You
The Cost of Assisted Living in Washington
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 Washington and its 61 cities.
The Genworth Financial Cost of Care Survey 2021 lists the average cost of assisted living in Washington as $6,000. This is far above the national average. Seniors living in nearby Idaho pay less for assisted living, with average fees of $3,838. The cost of care in Montana is also slightly lower, at $4,450. In Oregon, however, seniors pay just a little less for similar services, with facilities typically charging $5,045 per month.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Washington's Top Cities
Location is a major factor in determining long-term care costs. In Seattle, assisted living costs $4,711, which is very close to the state median of $4,743. In Tacoma, costs are higher than the state median at $5,228. Spokane is one of the most expensive regions with average costs of $5,381. In contrast, assisted living is fairly affordable in Bellevue at $4,132 per month.
Washington
$4,743
Seattle
$4,711
Bellevue
$4,132
Tacoma
$5,228
Spokane
$5,381
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Washington
Inflation drives prices across all industries, and assisted living is no exception. In Washington state, prices rose from $4,156 to $4,743 per month — a more than 14% increase year over year. The nationwide increase was only 9.6%, which is in line with general inflation.
In neighboring states, prices also increased, but Montana and California were highly successful at controlling costs with increases of just 4.3% and 6.9%, respectively. In Idaho, where costs were substantially below average in 2022, costs increased by 13.6%, almost catching up to the national average. Oregon saw the highest single-year increase at 19.2%.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $4,156 | $4,743 | $5,051 |
| U.S. Average | $4,070 | $4,459 | $4,802 |
| Idaho | $3,864 | $4,388 | $5,122 |
| Montana | $5,038 | $5,257 | $5,599 |
| Oregon | $4,681 | $5,580 | $5,942 |
| California | $4,625 | $4,946 | $5,221 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
The type of long-term care determines the cost. In Washington, assisted living averages $4,743, while memory care costs substantially more at $6,893. Independent living is the lowest cost option at $3,552, but it also offers the lowest level of assistance. The extent of assistance offered, amenities provided within the community and specialized training all impact cost. It's important to find an option that provides the needed level of care.
Assisted Living
$4,743
Memory Care
$6,893
Independent Living
$3,552
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Washington?
The Washington state Medicaid program, also known as Apple Health, covers part of the cost of care in an assisted living facility. There are several options applicable to seniors who wish to live in an assisted living facility, including the Medicaid Personal Care program and the COPES waiver. The Medicaid Personal Care program provides support with the cost of personal care services for seniors who don’t require a nursing home level of care. The COPES waiver is aimed at those who do need a higher level of care, and it helps those seniors receive that care in a community setting.
What Assisted Living Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Washington?
Washington’s Medicaid programs support low-income individuals who require personal care support in the community or in assisted living facilities. The programs cover:
- Help with the activities of daily living
- Assistive devices and durable medical equipment
- Medication support
The Medicaid Personal Care (MPC) program is gradually being replaced by the Community First Choice Option (CFCO) program. However, to be eligible for CFCO, seniors must require institutional levels of care. Seniors living in Pierce and King counties may qualify for the New Freedom Medicare Waiver. This local waiver covers the cost of assistive devices and personal care support.
Assisted Living Waiver Programs in Washington
Washington Medicaid Personal Care
The Washington Medicaid Personal Care Program covers seniors who have a low income and who require support with the activities of daily living. Unlike some other waivers, it covers those who do not require a nursing home level of care. Those classified as noninstitutional categorically needy (CN) or eligible for the Alternative Benefit Plan (ABP) may qualify for the MPC waiver. Most Medicaid services are provided by Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), and the MPC covers a variety of services, including:
- Assistance with the activities of daily living
- Medication administration
- Personal emergency response systems
- Transportation assistance
- Durable medical equipment
- Care coordination
- Nurse delegation
- Physical, occupational or speech therapy
Room and board is not covered under the MPC waiver. To be eligible for the MPC, seniors must be aged 65 or over and on a low income. As of January 2022, the income limit is $801 per month, and the asset limit is set to $2,000 for single applicants or $3,000 for couples. Individuals will receive a health assessment as part of the application process. To apply for the MPC, seniors should contact their nearest Aging Services Organization.
Community First Choice Option Program
The Community First Choice Option Program is a waiver aimed at seniors who are classed as requiring a nursing home level of care. The waiver is intended to help them remain within the community by providing the support they need to maintain their independence. The program allows seniors to manage their own care and offers:
- The option to hire anyone, including family members
- Support with personal care tasks
- Transportation assistance
- Housework assistance
- Basic nursing support
- Transition assistance for those moving into a long-term care facility
- Personal emergency response systems
To be eligible, seniors must be aged 65 or over and assessed as needing either nursing home care or an intermediate level of care. The asset limits are the same as for the MPC waiver. However, the income limits are higher — $2,349 per month for an individual applicant. Seniors can apply for the CFCO by contacting their local Aging Services Organization.
How to Know If You’re Eligible For Medicaid In Washington
The eligibility requirements for Medicaid in Washington are set by the Washington State Health Care Authority. Medicaid is open to seniors aged 65 and over and those living with disabilities. The income and asset limits for Medicaid depend on whether applicants are classed as medically needy and whether they qualify for Social Security.
The basic criteria are:
- Aged 65 or over
- Are blind or living with a disability
- Meet income and asset limits
As of 2022, an individual applicant may have a monthly pre-tax income of no more than $801.
2022 Basic Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Washington
| 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 | $3,000*** |
*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.
The income limits for Medicaid waivers are higher than those for basic Medicaid. To qualify for the waivers, seniors must meet additional requirements. As part of the application process, the senior will be given a care assessment to confirm that they require at least an intermediate level of care. This is defined as needing help with more than one of the following:
- Activities of daily living
- Medication administration
- Health support
Seniors are not required to reside in a long-term care facility to receive help under Medicaid waivers. However, they must be assessed as needing a similar level of care to that provided in a nursing home or assisted living facility.
How to Apply for Medicaid In Washington
Seniors can apply for Medicaid by contacting their nearest Aging Services provider, filling out an application and mailing it in. Applicants may be asked to provide the following documentation:
- Proof of residency / citizenship (e.g. passport)
- Proof of age (e.g. birth certificate)
- Bank statements and proof of income, such as wage slips or benefit papers
- Proof of assets (including property deeds and information about retirement accounts, shares, etc.)
- Information about any health insurance policies, including Medicare
How to Get Help Applying For Medicaid
Seniors who are confused by the Medicaid application process or who have questions about specific aspects can contact one of the following organizations for free, impartial advice. These organizations can offer assistance with applications, appeals or complaints.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Office of the Insurance Commissioner | (800) 562-6900 | The Office of the Insurance Commissioner provides free advice about health insurance-related issues, including Medicare and Medicaid. Seniors who have complaints or concerns about the application process or who need help with claims can contact the commissioner for support. |
| DSHS Customer Service Contact Center | (877) 501-2233 | The DSHS Customer Service Contact Center provides assistance with applications for Classic Medicaid and Medicaid appeals. Seniors can contact the center by telephone or use the online account system. |
| Medicaid Planning Assistance | Online Only | Medicaid Planning Assistance provides detailed information about the Medicaid system in Washington, including income and asset requirements. It also provides a simple eligibility checker. |
Does Medicare Cover Assisted Living in Washington?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted living in Washington. 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 Washington.
Paying for Assisted Living Facilities in Washington
The Medicaid Personal Care (MPC) program operates as part of the Washington state Medicaid plan. Although the MPC program does not pay for room and board, it does provide personal care assistance to eligible participants, including services such as eating, bathing, grooming, personal hygiene and other services that fall under activities of daily living. The program can also provide nursing services to conduct assessments, coordinate care and offer skilled treatment. The MPC program is classed as an entitlement, so qualification guarantees services with no waiting list.
To be eligible, applicants must qualify financially and functionally to be eligible for the MPC program. To gain functional eligibility, candidates must require assistance to perform at least three of the following activities of daily living:
- Eating
- Dressing
- Bathing
- Personal hygiene
- Mobility around and outside the home
- Bed mobility
- Medication management
- Transferring (standing from a bed or chair)
- Toileting
Seniors will qualify financially if they meet eligibility requirements for the Non-institutional, Categorically Needy Medicaid program. These requirements are stricter than those of classic Medicaid, and the income limit changes each year. Health insurance premiums can be deducted from the monthly income total. The value of countable resources are also considered and must be below $2,000 for individual applicants or below $3,000 for married couples applying. The applicant's primary home is exempt as long as it is valued under $572,000, along with a primary vehicle, household items, personal effects and pre-arranged burial plans.
To learn more about eligibility requirements, contact your Medicaid case manager or fill out a paper application and submit it to the address on the form or fill out and submit an application online.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Assisted Living in Washington
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.
| 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 Assisted Living. |
| 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 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) 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 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 Washington
There are many resources in Washington 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Washington Area Agencies on Aging | Area Agencies on Aging in Washington work with state, federal and local agencies to support the needs of older adults and their caregivers. Seniors can receive short-term and long-term in-home care for medical and nonmedical needs, such as hygiene, memory support, meal delivery, light housekeeping and mobility assistance. Other services include nonemergency medical and nonmedical transportation, adult day service programs, medication monitoring and community involvement options. These programs are designed to help older adults maintain their independence. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Washington 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Washington 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. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Washington 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Washington Aging and Long-Term Support Administration (ALTSA) | 800-562-6028 | ALTSA is a statewide education and training organization devoted to providing support for caregivers and seniors with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The program hosts an annual the Taking Care, Giving Care conference to provide technical training for caregivers, and enrolled care providers can receive news and updates through the member website and printed information packets. |
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 Washington seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Washington Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) | 360-902-1800 | The Washington Commodity Supplemental Food Program provides healthy food to qualifying state residents aged 60 and older. CSFP ensures Washingtonians receive supplemental nutrition via shelf-stable goods and fresh produce, including vegetables, cereal, potatoes and fruits. The program, which encourages a healthier lifestyle, is currently available in 27 out of the 39 counties in the state. Residents can use the CSFP locator to find the providers closest to them. |
| Washington Meals on Wheels | Washington Meals on Wheels has independently run programs statewide that provide seniors with free or low-cost meals and extra supports. Pricing is on a sliding scale and ranges from no cost to 100% cost based on individual circumstances. The majority of services are open to seniors aged 60877-501-2233. Meals are served in a congregate setting or delivered to seniors based on their mobility needs. Additional services vary, but they may include emergency meal delivery, pet food delivery and transportation. | |
| Washington Second Harvest Inland Northwest | The Washington Second Harvest Inland Northwest food bank supports nutritionally insecure seniors in eastern Washington and northern Idaho. This organization sets up mobile markets that allow low-income seniors and families to shop for nutritious groceries at no cost. The organization also has 250 food pantries and meal sites in the region, offering ongoing access to food for those in need. It also offers nutrition education and hands-on cooking classes to support seniors with healthy, well-balanced meals. | |
| Washington State Food Assistance Program | 877-501-2233 | The Washington State Food Assistance Program provides grocery funds to immigrant seniors who do not qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program due to their immigrant status. To qualify, immigrant seniors must legally be in the U.S. and fulfill SNAP income requirements. Benefits are tied to income levels and the number of residents in a given household. Households that include a senior immigrant and a U.S. citizen may be eligible for a combination of the two programs' benefits. |
| Washington Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) | 800-422-3263 | The Washington Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program supports both state farmers and lower-income seniors by providing vouchers for the purchase of fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs and honey from participating farmers' markets and roadside produce stands. Benefits are provided through a debit card and must be used between June 1 and October 31. In addition to providing funds for direct purchases, the SFMNP helps ensure that congregate meal sites and senior food delivery services can offer fresh produce. |
| Washington Food Lifeline | 877-404-7543 | Washington Food Lifeline manages senior food assistance programs from its Seattle-based Hunger Solutions Center. It stocks local food banks and supplies food for seniors meal programs, aiming to alleviate hunger and correct nutritional and dietary deficits experienced by many older adults. The organization has established connections with a wide variety of partner agencies, including senior housing providers and rural mobile food pantries. Seniors can locate their nearest food bank online or by calling the toll-free hotline. |
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 Washington have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Washington Habitat for Humanity Aging in Place Program | Seniors choosing to reside in their own homes can apply for support and assistance from the Washington Habitat for Humanity Aging in Place program. Habitat works with human service organizations to assess residents' individual needs before making essential repairs and modifications to ensure that homes are safe and more accessible. Modifications include installing ramps, raised toilets, lever door handles and railings. It also connects older adults to community resources that can help them maintain their independence. | |
| Washington Home Repair and Modification Assistance | 877-894-4663 | The Washington Home Repair and Modification Assistance program, administered by the Washington Homeownership Resource Center, helps seniors stay safe in their homes by adding safety features, such as grab bars and wheelchair ramps. The program can also help with preventive maintenance and fixing some simple home issues, such as blocked drains and malfunctioning appliances. |
| Washington Weatherization Program | Washington's Weatherization Assistance Program relies on state and federal funding, as well as matching payments from utility companies. It helps with energyefficient upgrades that can lower your utility bills and improve your health and safety, such as installing insulation and sealing air leaks. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Washington 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Washington Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | 888-562-6028 | The Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for the rights of seniors living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It helps residents and their families when they have concerns about the standard of care at a facility and can address issues such as neglect or elder abuse. |
| Washington State Bar Association Moderate Means Program | 855-741-6930 | Washington State Bar Association runs a Moderate Means program that provides reduced-fee legal support to those who cannot afford legal assistance. The program covers civil legal issues including family law, housing and benefits. The association can also recommend sources for pro bono support. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Washington 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Washington State Association of Senior Centers (WSASC) | 253-288-7442 | WSASC connects seniors with the resources they need to stay healthy and live as independently as possible at any level of care. Services are delivered through the state's senior centers and include caregiver training and referrals, information services, social events and case manager services to help locate programs and other support networks seniors may need. All seniors aged 60 and over are welcome to participate in WSASC activities, though full membership in Washington costs a nominal annual fee |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Washington 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Washington Dementia Action Collaborative Information and Resources (DAC) | 360-725-2300 | DAC offers a large number of free resources for seniors with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, as well as for their families. Care planning, caregiver training and referrals are available statewide, as are awareness training resources and workshops for memory care providers. The organization also provides a free online tool for seniors and families to better understand memory impairment with an online Dementia Road Map. |
Medicaid Resources
Navigating the Medicaid system is often difficult and confusing. Several Washington resources help older adults by providing advice on Medicaid options, waiver programs and eligibility criteria to help seniors receive the right health care benefits.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Washington Community Options Program Entry System Waiver | The state's primary waiver for home- and community-based services is the Community Options Program Entry System (COPES). This waiver has provisions for self-directed residential care and agency-based services that are coordinated by a professional care manager |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Washington 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Washington 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 Washington 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Washington Property Tax Exemptions | 360-534-1400 | The Washington State Department of Revenue offers a property tax exemption, as well as a deferment program, to seniors and disabled adults. This program can reduce your school taxes and freeze your property's assessed value starting the first year that you qualify |
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. Washington 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Washington Energy Assistance Program (EAP) | 360-725-2857 | The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is available to eligible Washingtonians in every county. Depending on the need, assistance ranges from energy-efficient home improvements and utility payment grants to replacing or repairing air conditioners, air purifiers and heating systems. Eligibility requirements include income restrictions, utility costs, household size and whether an applicant has recently received a grant. Applicants must provide documentation. Each county has a respective LIHEAP provider through which interested residents must apply. |
| Washington Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) | Households that are eligible for LIHEAP also qualify for help with their water bills. Payments are made directly to your utility provider to prevent disconnection or restore your water and sewer service. |
Veteran's Services
startCase(Washington)} 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Washington VA Benefits and Health Care | The Washington VA Benefits and Health Care program serves the state's veterans as well as their dependents. Seniors who served in the armed forces can receive medical care, mental health services and specialized treatments at VA medical centers and statewide clinics. Seniors can also receive assistance accessing the VA benefits they're entitled to, such as retirement pensions, Aid and Attendance payments, disability compensation and property tax exemptions. Additional VA programs offer help with housing, prescription drugs and obtaining medical devices. |
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Washington
Assisted living facilities in Washington are required to operate in accordance with the rules and regulations set by the Department of Social and Health Services Aging and Long Term Support Administration. These regulations cover the standard of care, staffing requirements and health and safety rules for long-term care facilities.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Assisted Living Service Plan Requirements | Assisted living facilities must perform a health assessment on any prospective resident before admission. The assessment covers medical history, mental health conditions, daily routines, and food and activity preferences. If this cannot be done before admission, the assessment needs to be completed within 14 days of the resident's admission. |
| Assisted Living Admission Requirements | Any seniors admitted to an assisted living facility must be able to walk on their own, unless the facility meets the requirements to house non-ambulatory residents. In addition, the facility is required to provide adequate medical care for residents living with a medical condition. Residents who need nursing home levels of care can only be admitted to assisted living facilities with a registered nurse on staff. Communities can’t retain anyone who endangers other residents. |
| Assisted Living Scope of Care | Assisted living facilities provide housing, meal service, and personal care assistance. They may also provide medication reminders and other limited nursing services (diabetes management, tube feeding, ostomy care) provided by a registered nurse. ALFs can choose to help residents with activities of daily living. |
| Assisted Living Medicaid Policy | Medicaid in Washington does not cover the cost of room and board at an assisted living facility. However, The Washington state Medicaid program has programs and waivers that can provide financial assistance to seniors in assisted living facilities. These include the Medicaid Personal Care (MPC) program, the Community First Choice Option (CFCO) and the Community Options Program Entry System waiver. Facilities that accept Medicaid must be licensed. |
| Assisted Living Facility Requirements | Facilities licensed prior to 1989 may have up to four residents per room. ALFs must provide at least one toilet and sink per eight residents and one bathing fixture per 12 residents. Washington law does not require private rooms or apartments, but no more than two residents can occupy any unit. ALFs that accept Washington State DSHS Aging and Disability Services Administration coverage must provide Medicaid-eligible residents with apartment-like units. |
| Medication Management Regulations | Assisted living communities must offer medication administration options that include full administration, self-administration or assisted administration of medication. Some communities are licensed to allow a family member to administer medication provided the family member can produce a written medication or treatment plan. |
| Staffing Requirements | Assisted living facilities need an administrator who oversees the operation of the facility, and trained staff members providing care and facilitating activities. Staff must complete orientation and health and safety training. Staff members cannot provide hands-on care to residents unsupervised until completing training. There are no staff-to-resident ratios, but there must always be one staff member onsite who is over the age of 18 and is certified in first-aid and CPR. |
| Staff Training Requirements | Assisted living facility administrators must be at least 21 years old. They must meet minimum education requirements before starting the job, and are required to undergo regular continuing education. Other staff must be CPR and first-aid certified within 30 days of employment, and have 70 hours of basic training in their first 120 days. Administrators need 12 hours of continuing education a year. |
| Background Checks for Assisted Living | Assisted living facilities are required to perform a criminal background check on all staff members. They must also perform a federal fingerprint check. |
| Requirements for Reporting Abuse | Assisted living facility staff members are mandatory reporters. This means they are required to report abuse, neglect or abandonment. Those who wish to report issues or concerns regarding the facility can do so by calling the Long-Term Care Ombudsman at (800) 737-7931, or by calling Washington state Adult Protective Services at 1-877-734-6277. They can also visit the Residential Care Services Online Incident Reporting page to file a report online. |
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