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Memory Care in Maine
Maine is now the state with the highest percentage of seniors in its population — 21.2% of Mainers are aged 65 or older — claiming the title from Florida as of the 2021 Census estimate. With such a large senior population, the number of people with Alzheimer’s in the state is correspondingly high as well. In 2020, there were 29,000 seniors with Alzheimer’s, and by 2025, that number is estimated to be 35,000. The disease ranked as Maine’s sixth-leading cause of death in 2019.
Maine is a relatively safe and healthy state for seniors overall, however, with very low crime rates and above-average ratings for water and air quality. Upon becoming a member of the AARP Age-Friendly Network in 2019, Maine reorganized its public assistance framework for elderly residents. Health care costs are on par with the national median, and memory care services in Maine cost an average of $7,331 per month.
Memory care can either be offered on its own in a community designed especially for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s, or, more often, it’s provided as a service in a separate wing of an assisted living facility. Memory care programs are designed specifically for those with memory impairment, and the facilities often coordinate social activities and schedules specifically for the needs of those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
This guide helps seniors and their families understand the typical cost of memory care in Maine and the wider region. Assistance programs from state agencies and nonprofit organizations are also detailed, along with regulations governing memory care and available options to help pay for services.
Find Memory Care Options Near You
The Cost of Memory Care in Maine
When trying to decide how to pay for memory care, 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 memory care in Maine and its 6 cities.
The Cost of Memory Care in Maine's Top Cities
The average monthly cost of memory care in Maine is $8,469, but a massive $9,615 difference exists between prices in its most and least affordable cities. In Yarmouth, provider prices stand at a whopping $14,070, while in Orono, the average is just $4,455. Bangor's average of $7,420 is nearer to the state average. Portland's prices, meanwhile, are nearly 43% below it.
Maine
$8,469
Yarmouth
$14,070
Orono
$4,455
Bangor
$7,420
Portland
$4,832
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Maine
Inflation has resulted in the cost of memory care in Maine increasing significantly. From 2022 to 2023, provider prices rose by 28.3%, taking the average monthly cost to $8,469. The nationwide average, meanwhile, rose at a lower rate of 10.4%, from $4,863 to $5,369. Maine's prices are expected to go up again in 2024 by 6.5%.
Nearby states also experienced the effects of inflation. Vermont's and New Hampshire's average memory care costs increased by 9.5% and 12.6%, respectively, while New York's rose by an eye-popping 23%. Massachusetts was less affected, with prices rising just 1.8%.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | $6,600 | $8,469 | $9,019 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Vermont | $8,800 | $9,639 | $9,882 |
| New Hampshire | $6,364 | $7,169 | $7,635 |
| Massachusetts | $7,570 | $7,706 | $7,782 |
| New York | $5,244 | $6,449 | $6,416 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
In Maine, senior living costs differ in line with the type of care available. Due to its specialized nature, memory care is the most expensive, costing $8,469. Assisted living is around two-thirds of the price at $5,609, while independent living is $4,954 per month less at $3,515. These price differences make identifying specific care needs before comparing providers essential.
Assisted Living
$5,609
Memory Care
$8,469
Independent Living
$3,515
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Maine?
Note: For the purposes of this guide, when we say “Memory Care” we are referring to memory care provided in a “social setting,” such as an Assisted Living Facility. This is the most common way to receive Memory Care and is the best fit for all but the frailest seniors. Sometimes the actual service of memory care can be provided in a Nursing Home (“medical setting”), so the financial assistance options will be very different. To learn more about the financial assistance options available for memory care provided in a nursing home, read our guide to Nursing Home Care in Maine.
The state Medicaid program in Maine is known as MaineCare. Seniors and people with disabilities who are eligible for both Medicaid and the Residential/Assisted Living program or Medicaid Waiver for Elderly and Adults with Physical Disabilities program may receive coverage for memory care services.
These programs are for low-income residents in certain vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, who need help paying for care in order to avoid nursing home placement.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Maine
Medicaid recipients who qualify for MaineCare’s Residential/Assisted Living program may receive coverage for services on an individual basis. Financial, functional and other needs are assessed when determining coverage. The following list is a general overview of covered services:
- Personal care (help with activities of daily living, mobility, hygiene, etc.)
- Nursing care
- Personal emergency response system (PERS)
- Assistive technology (devices that improve quality of life)
- Environmental modifications (accessibility aids, etc.)
- Homemaker services
- Case management
- Transportation
The cost of room and board in memory care facilities and other types of noninstitutional settings isn’t covered.
Memory Care Waiver Programs in Maine
Medicaid Waiver for Elderly and Adults with Physical Disabilities
The Medicaid Waiver for Elderly and Adults with Physical Disabilities program is available to individuals who meet eligibility guidelines for MaineCare. The services provided through this waiver are based on an assessment of the applicant’s financial status, medical needs and functional ability.
The waiver may cover services provided in the recipient’s own home, a residential care facility or a nursing home. As such, coverage for memory care services is a possibility if determined to be appropriate for the person’s needs and circumstances.
To apply for services through the Medicaid Waiver for Elderly and Adults with Physical Disabilities program, visit the DHHS website and complete the Long-Term Care application or submit a request online. Assistance with the application process is available at no cost from the resources provided further below.
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Maine
MaineCare is intended to help people with a low income and genuine need for the corresponding services. For the purposes of this guide, we’re focusing on the eligibility requirements for seniors and people with disabilities in residential care facilities, such as memory care and assisted living.
To qualify, an individual must:
- Be aged 65 and older or blind/disabled
- Currently live in Maine
- Be a U.S. citizen (or lawfully admitted alien)
- Demonstrate a financial need for assistance
- Demonstrate a functional need for services
Financial eligibility consists of income and asset limits as well as examinations of recent transactions and transfers of money and assets. As of 2023, an individual applying for Medicaid in Maine can have annual income of up to $32,904 and $2,000 in countable assets. Applicants may be required to spend a certain amount of their own income on care each month before the rest is funded by Medicaid.
2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Maine
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s)**** | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $32,904 | $10,000 | |
| Two People | 1 | $32,904** | $10,000 | $148,620 |
| Two People | 2 | $65,808*** | $15,000 |
*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 asset limit is technically $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. However, Maine allows an extra exemption of $8,000 in savings for an individual and $12,000 for a couple.
Applicants must also be assessed as to their functional abilities and requirements. The results of this assessment are used to determine coverage for most long-term care services. As such, coverage of residential care facility services may be provided for an individual who needs more help than what can reasonably be provided at home but doesn’t require nursing home placement.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Maine
Applications for MaineCare can be completed at DHHS district offices or submitted online to begin a step-by-step process that helps determine eligibility for assistance. MaineCare and Long-Term Care applications can be printed out and mailed or delivered to a local DHHS office.
What Information You Will Need
Applicants should expect the process to involve questions and/or requests for verification of financial, medical and personal information. The following is a list of things to keep in mind, as details may be needed to complete the application or during the review stage.
- Identity (name, date of birth, Social Security number)
- Disabilities and/or blindness (and whether an official decision from Social Security has been received)
- Income (including benefits)
- Assets (stocks, bonds, trusts, annuities, retirement accounts, life insurance policies, etc.)
- Expenses (care, rent, mortgage, property taxes, insurance, utilities, etc.)
- Health insurance coverage (policy name, service coverage and other details)
If the application is missing information or contains something that can’t be verified, the applicant will be asked for further details and/or specific documents relevant to that claim.
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
The resources detailed here may help seniors, people with disabilities and their representatives in the various stages of applying for Medicaid and other assistance. Information and assistance from these sources is provided at no cost.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Health and Human Services | Call (855) 797-4357 or view local contact listings online | The Maine DHHS is responsible for the state Medicaid program (MaineCare) and can provide assistance with applications over the phone or in person at district offices throughout the state. DHHS staff can also help residents make an appointment for the functional assessment required for long-term care services. |
| State Health Insurance Assistance Program | Call (877) 353-3771 with questions and requests | Medicare beneficiaries in Maine, and those who expect to be eligible soon, can access free services and assistance via SHIP. Staff can clarify the different parts and plans available through Medicare, and importantly, the ways in which Medicaid can interact with Medicare. Callers are connected with local agencies to deal with the relevant issues, such as getting in-person help to enroll in programs. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Maine?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Maine. As was mentioned above, this doesn’t apply to Memory Care received in a Nursing Home. Since it is the most common to receive memory care in a “social setting” (such as an assisted living facility), Medicare won’t be a viable financial assistance option for most seniors who need Memory Care. However, Medicare will 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 Memory Care in a nursing home, and for Medicare-related resources, see our guide to Nursing Homes in Maine.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Maine
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 Memory Care affordable.
| Name | How To Apply | HowItWorks | 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 Memory Care. | |
| 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 Memory Care. 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 Memory Care. 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 Memory Care will not typically be eligible to sign up for a LTC insurance policy. |
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Maine
There are many resources in Maine 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.
| Resource | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Maine Aging and Disability Resource Centers | View the service map to find local offices and contacts | Maine's Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) provides information and direct services to eligible residents via this network of local centers. Seniors and people with disabilities can ask about local and state assistance programs, Medicare and healthcare issues, legal assistance, assistive technology and aging-related topics in general. |
| CoverME | Call (866) 636-0355 or find in-person help locations by zip code | This is the official health insurance marketplace for Maine. Applications for coverage via the website are also reviewed for MaineCare (Medicaid) eligibility, which can help streamline the process and reduce paperwork for those expecting to obtain both forms of coverage. |
| Alzheimer's Association – Maine Chapter | Call the national helpline at (800) 272-3900 or visit the website for information | The Alzheimer's Association chapter in Maine helps people with the disease and those who care for them. The helpline is available 24/7 for anyone with questions, and local support groups are hosted on a regular basis. The website also features a calendar of events as well as news and clinical trial updates. |
| Maine Long-Term Care Ombudsman | Call (800) 499-0229 with questions or concerns | The LTCO Program is a free source of answers and assistance for Maine residents of long-term care facilities and those in need of memory care services. Staff can help residents and their families understand their rights and investigate complaints on their behalf. Seniors and caregivers with questions about long-term care services and financial assistance programs can call for assistance. |
| Maine Legal Services for the Elderly | Call (800) 750-5353 or learn more on the website | Low-income residents aged 60 and older in Maine may be eligible for free assistance and legal representation for civil matters. Lawyers at MLSE can help seniors and their families in matters such as access to public benefits and long-term care facilities, guardianships, wills and estates, and consumer fraud. |
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Maine Area Agencies on Aging | Maine's five Area Agencies on Aging provide information, assistance, referrals and advocacy to the state's elder population. These agencies connect older adults to valuable local resources, such as medical transportation, in-home care services and educational programs. Staff also offers health insurance counseling services to help seniors navigate the ins and outs of Medicare or commercial health care plans. All offices are open Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Interpreters are available for non-English-speaking callers. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Maine 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Maine 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 Maine seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Maine Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) | 207-287-7513 | The Commodity Supplemental Food Program in Maine provides low-income adults age 60877-353-3771 with a monthly food package to enrich their diets. These packages, also called Senior Brown Bags, Commodity Boxes or Senior Boxes, include an array of nutritious foods. Recipients must meet income eligibility guidelines. The CSFP is delivered by Maine's Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry in partnership with organizations across the state. For more information, seniors should contact the appropriate agency in their county. |
| Maine Good Shepherd Food Banks | 207-782-3554 | Nonprofits across Maine operate food pantries to provide fresh and nonperishable foods to seniors and other community members in need. Food pantries often play a significant role in directly distributing food to low-income residents. Some also provide personal and household items and pet foods and may have special programs to supply holiday-specific food baskets at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Food pantries operate on varying days and hours, and eligibility requirements may differ. |
| Maine Meals on Wheels | Maine Meals on Wheels provides seniors with food assistance conveniently delivered to their doorsteps. Homebound adults aged 60 and above with mobility issues can access affordable, nutritious and ready-to-eat meals on a sliding fee scale. Residents receive healthy meals and companionship, with Meals on Wheels volunteers playing a crucial role in ensuring seniors' well-being by checking on their health and safety daily. In addition, seniors who have transportation can visit community sites for group meals and socializing. | |
| Maine Nutrition Services Program | 877-353-3771 | Maine Nutrition Services Program acts for seniors challenged by the cost or efforts of accessing a balanced diet, those wanting to socialize and housebound seniors. Staff and volunteers serve meals at a variety of community dining locations. These communal meals are an opportunity to share in healthy dining, meet new friends and access professional assistance from nutritionists, disease management counselors and other health professionals. Home delivery meals are also provided. |
| Maine Senior FarmShare Program | 207-446-5550 | The Maine Senior FarmShare Program helps low-income seniors in the state access fresh fruits and vegetables that are an important part of a healthy diet. Recipients receive $50 worth of produce from a participating farm and can choose from over 100 authorized farms in the state. The program is open to Maine residents who are age 60+ (55+ for Native Americans). Participants must also meet annual income eligibility guidelines. MSFP operates on a first-come, first-served basis. |
| Maine Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 800-442-6003 | The Maine Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps, is open to eligible seniors and low-income families statewide. This monthly benefit helps seniors obtain the foods they need for good nutrition, but applicants must be residents of Maine and meet specific income and resource guidelines to qualify. Electronic benefits transfer cards are then loaded with benefits, which can be used at most supermarkets and grocery stores statewide for qualifying food and beverage purchases. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Maine 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Maine CITE Program | 207-621-3195 | The Maine Department of Education's Maine CITE Program makes assistive technology available to Maine seniors. Free loaner services offer short-term use of medical devices. Seniors can try out equipment before buying it to see if it works for them. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Maine 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland Drugs for the Elderly and Disabled program | 866-796-2463 | Seniors may qualify for discounted prescriptions through the Drugs for the Elderly and Disabled program. DEL provides up to 80% off the cost of some prescription medications. Recipients may have a $2 copayment. Call the Pharmacy Help Desk at (866) 796-2463 for assistance. |
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 Maine have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| MaineHousing's Home Accessibility and Repair Program | 800-452-4668 | MaineHousing's Home Accessibility and Repair Program issues grants to low-income homeowners who can't afford necessary home repairs and improvements. Grants may cover modifications to help disabled persons or those experiencing physical barriers to living at home to remain in their residences. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Maine 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Maine Legal Services for the Elderly | 800-750-5353 | Maine Legal Services for the Elderly provides those aged 60 and over with free high-quality legal services. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Maine 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Maine 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 Maine 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Maine State Property Tax Deferral Program | 207-624-5600 | The State Property Tax Deferral Program allows older homeowners to defer paying property taxes until they move, sell, or pass away. Seniors must submit a Property Tax Deferral Application with their local municipal assessor between January 1 and April 1. |
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. Maine 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Maine Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) | 877-544-3271 | HEAP helps low-income seniors pay for heating costs. HEAP applicants may also apply for the Low-Income Assistance Program, which pays for electricity costs by providing a credit on the recipient's electric bill. |
Veteran's Services
Maine 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Maine VA Benefits and Health Care | Maine's VA Benefits and Health Care services are designed to help seniors aged 65 and older access critical services for their well-being. Elderly veterans have various options across the state to receive care and support for their benefits, such as the VA Medical Center in Augusta and the Togus Regional Office. Seniors can access programs like the Disability Housing Grant for Veterans to make home modifications for service-connected disabilities. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Maine
Assisted living facilities and dementia care units are licensed by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Licensing and Regulatory Services. This agency sets specific standards for resident accommodations and all aspects of care.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Residential care facilities provide 24-hour personal assistance, service coordination, housekeeping and related services. Additionally, licensed dementia care units must provide weekly individual and group activities that promote physical activity, self-care, social engagement and spiritual well-being. They must also offer outdoor activities, crafts and multisensory therapy. |
| Facilities | Dementia care units must provide a secure, segregated or locked environment with comfortable, noninstitutional common areas that promote freedom of movement. Facilities must also establish written policies and procedures for addressing dementia-related behaviors, such as wandering. |
| Care Plans | Individualized service plans must be developed within 30 days of admission and reassessed every six months. Facilities must secure a written diagnosis of Alzheimer's or dementia, as well as documentation appointing a health care agent who is authorized to make decisions on the resident's behalf. |
| Medication Management | Maine permits self-administration and staff-guided medication management based on a resident assessment performed at the time of admission. Such activities must be performed by a specially trained staff member or overseen by a registered nurse. |
| Staffing | New employees must complete eight hours of classroom training and eight hours of clinical orientation related to dementia before direct patient contact. All certified nursing assistants must pass a criminal background check. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Financial assistance for personal care and related services provided in a residential care facility may be available through the Section 19 home- and community-based services Elderly and Adults With Disabilities Waiver, or the Section 20 home- and community-based services Adults with Other Related Conditions Waiver. |
| Reporting Abuse | Instances of suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation or any rights violation must be reported immediately to the Department of Health and Human Services by calling 1-800 383-2441. |
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