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Independent Living in North Dakota

North Dakota is a unique and diverse retirement destination that extends from the highlands of the Missouri Plateau to the fertile farmlands along the Red River Valley. Residents can explore some of the state’s historic sites by visiting the Theodore Roosevelt National Park or the reconstructed Fort Union Trading Post. Although North Dakota has just 762,062 residents, it’s home to nearly 120,000 senior citizens who represent more than 15% of the population. The state’s three metropolitan centers and five micropolitan areas give residents access to cultural attractions, entertainment and high-quality medical care.

Independent living in private apartments or stand-alone cottages is an option at many continuing care retirement communities. This can be ideal for active seniors without care needs who don’t want to worry about maintenance and other responsibilities of homeownership. According to Genworth Financial, the median cost of independent living in North Dakota is $2,662 per month, which is slightly lower than the national average.

Seniors who want to learn more about independent living can find information about average prices and potential payment options in this guide. It also includes a directory of statewide programs that can help older adults maintain their independence.

The Cost of Independent Living in North Dakota

Note: Independent Living costs are generally 30%-40% lower than costs for Assisted Living, but there’s no definitive source for national Independent Living costs. This guide estimates Independent Living costs by subtracting 35% from the Assisted Living costs found in the Genworth Financial Cost of Care Survey.

North Dakota’s monthly estimated cost of $2,204 for Independent Living is relatively low when compared to national and regional averages. In general, seniors can expect to pay $2,925 a month for this level of care elsewhere in the nation. Independent Living is also relatively affordable in South Dakota, where the estimated monthly cost is $2,177. Prices are much closer to the national average in North Dakota’s other two border states: $2,893 in Montana and $2,930 in Minnesota.

Within the state of North Dakota, the cheapest Independent Living options are found on the eastern edge of the state in Grand Forks, where the estimated monthly cost is just $1,430. Prices jump significantly just 90 minutes south in Fargo, though, with that city’s costs at $2,496. Meanwhile, at $2,412, prices in the state capital of Bismarck come in just below those of Fargo.

Bismarck

$2412

Grand Forks

$1430

Fargo

$2496

Independent Living is the most affordable long-term care option for seniors in North Dakota, but for some seniors, other options may be more convenient or more suited to their needs. Adult Day Care usually costs about $3,383 per month, but it’s not the best choice for older adults who need constant care or observation. Assisted Living offers a more robust level of care and is approximately the same price at $3,391. Homemaker and Home Health Aide service options have caretakers come directly to seniors’ residences to provide care; both average $5,689 a month in North Dakota. Finally, intensive care is available in Nursing Homes, but the monthly cost of such care is quite high in this state: $11,978 for a semi-private room and $12,587 for private quarters.

Independent Living

$2204

Homemaker

$5689

Home Health Aide

$5689

Adult Day Care

$3383

Assisted Living

$3391

Nursing Home (semiprivate room)

$11978

Nursing Home (private room)

$12587

Can You Use Medicare or Medicaid to Pay for Independent Living in North Dakota?

Unfortunately, you cannot use Medicaid and Medicare to help pay the monthly fee for residing in an Independent Living community. For seniors who need help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), there may be financial assistance programs available to help cover the cost of care in Independent Living. For more information about financial assistance for those who need a higher level of care, read our guide to Assisted Living in North Dakota.

Read on for more information about using alternative means to make Independent Living more affordable, such as retirement funds, the sale of a home, etc.

Paying for Independent Living in North Dakota

Although independent living costs less than other long-term care options, there are fewer financial assistance programs available. Most seniors pay for independent living out of pocket using their retirement income, just as they would pay for their living expenses if they stayed in the community. Seniors who want to increase their monthly cash flow or need a lump sum for move-in expenses may consider selling real estate or applying for a reverse mortgage. Financial assistance may also be available through long-term care insurance, VA benefits and Medicaid, although these options only pay for medically necessary services, such as meal preparation, grocery shopping assistance and transportation. Our guide to independent living provides a more complete look at estimated costs and possible payment options.

Independent Living Resources in North Dakota

North Dakota offers an array of programs for seniors who want to live independently at home or in a qualified long-term care facility. The following programs accommodate residents who want to stay active and involved in their community.

ResourceContactService
North Dakota Aging & Disability Resource Link(855) 462-5465The Department of Human Services administers a wide range of programs for caregivers and seniors through the Division of Adults and Aging Services. Seniors can contact the Division's Aging & Disability Resource Link to learn more about statewide programs or be directed to resources in their area. It can help residents access adaptive equipment, legal advice, employment opportunities, preventive medical care, meals and nutritional counseling. Most services are free to residents aged 60 or older although some programs request voluntary contributions. 
North Dakota Statewide Transit(701) 328-2500The Department of Transportation supports a number of public transit programs throughout the state that benefit seniors, veterans, disabled adults and nondriving residents. Subsidized transportation is available three to five days a week in most areas. Residents who need help traveling for medical appointments, errands, employment and other activities can contact this organization to learn more about fixed-route bus lines, demand-response transportation and accessible paratransit programs that operate in their community.
North Dakota Senior Games(701) 551-5880North Dakota Senior Games in a multidisciplinary event that unites seniors aged 50 and older. It tests seniors’ skills in a variety of sports ranging from traditional Olympic events, such as swimming and track and field, to newer additions including golf and pickleball. The senior games also provide volunteer opportunities for North Dakota residents who want to help with registration, setup and game-day events.
North Dakota Senior Service Providerswandm@restel.netThis statewide organization has represented North Dakota’s senior service agencies and program administrators since 1982. Today, its network includes more than 30 nonprofit agencies that serve seniors in eight regions and 53 counties plus several tribal areas. These programs provide transportation, meals, legal assistance and general aging-related services in designated geographic areas.
North Dakota University System Senior Citizen/Project 65 Waiver(701) 231-8011Thanks to the State Board of Higher Education, seniors aged 65 and older who want to audit classes qualify for free tuition at North Dakota State University. This waiver program applies to in-person classes offered at the university’s main campus in Fargo. Eligibility is determined by the Office of Registration and Records.

Directory of Independent Living Facilities in North Dakota

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Independent Living in North Dakota

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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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