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Memory Care in Massachusetts
Massachusetts, ranked the second-best state in the nation for health care, is home to a little under 7 million inhabitants, and an estimated 17.4% of them are over 65. In Massachusetts, there are 130,000 people in this age group who live with Alzheimer’s disease, with cases projected to rise to 150,000 by 2025. Data collected by the CDC reveals that Alzheimer’s-related deaths in the state increased by 15.57% between 2016 and 2020. Fortunately, the Massachusetts Councils on Aging have created a roadmap to improve dementia care in the state, called Dementia Friendly Massachusetts.
For people living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, the state has a robust selection of memory care communities. These communities are comfortable, familiar and calming and also provide intensive medical supervision. They improve the health outcomes of residents through research-based strategies and highly educated staff. This guide discusses the cost of memory care in Massachusetts and the surrounding region and financial assistance options.
The Cost of Memory Care in Massachusetts
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 Massachusetts and its 39 cities.
The Cost of Memory Care in Massachusetts's Top Cities
The cost of memory care varies significantly from one Massachusetts city to another. Worcester has some of the highest costs, with seniors paying an average of $12,000 per month. In Boston, monthly costs are at the lower end of the range, averaging $6,295, and in Quincy, seniors pay an average of $7,500 per month for memory care. With average costs of $11,850 per month, Plymouth is slightly less expensive than Worcester.
Massachusetts
$7,706
Boston
$6,295
Worcester
$12,000
Quincy
$7,500
Plymouth
$11,850
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Massachusetts
Inflation makes it more expensive to access everything from medical services to senior care. This includes the cost of memory care in Massachusetts, which rose by 1.8% between 2022 and 2023. For 2024, projections show that the cost is likely to increase by another 1%. Costs in Massachusetts are 43.5% higher than the U.S. average.
In Connecticut, costs have decreased by just under 1%. Residents of New Hampshire are paying 12.6% more for memory care than they did in 2022. New York has seen a 22.9% increase, while the cost of memory care in Rhode Island has soared by 21.6%.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $7,570 | $7,706 | $7,782 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Connecticut | $7,310 | $7,257 | $7,637 |
| New Hampshire | $6,364 | $7,169 | $7,635 |
| New York | $5,244 | $6,449 | $6,416 |
| Rhode Island | $6,008 | $7,307 | $7,782 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
The type of care selected has a big impact on average costs. Memory care is one of the most expensive options, averaging $7,706 per month in Massachusetts. With average costs of $5,599 per month, assisted living is 37.6% less expensive. Independent living doesn't offer the same level of support as memory care or assisted living, so it costs the least, averaging $3,506 per month.
Assisted Living
$5,599
Memory Care
$7,706
Independent Living
$3,506
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Medicaid system, or MassHealth, doesn’t directly cover the cost of memory care, but it does have waiver programs that may pay for support services provided in memory care facilities or special units within assisted living communities. These waiver programs offer all-inclusive care options, as well as funding for specific services related to cognitive impairments. While these waivers may help individuals who qualify for a nursing home level of care, they may not cover services inside an actual nursing facility or medical setting.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Massachusetts?
MassHealth can pay for personal attendants who help those with cognitive impairments fulfill daily activities they are unable to complete on their own. All-inclusive programs can pay for memory care in conjunction with many other medical services your loved one needs to remain in the community.
Memory Care Waiver Programs in Massachusetts
The following programs may help you pay for memory care at home or within a community setting, such as an assisted living facility with a memory care unit. These programs may have unique eligibility requirements separate from standard MassHealth. You can only participate in one waiver at a time.
| Program | Contact | Description |
|---|---|---|
| PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly) | List of PACE Organizations | PACE covers memory care services, as well as personal care, therapies, congregate meals, social services and other specialty care, at PACE centers located in most parts of Massachusetts. You don't need to be eligible for MassHealth to participate in PACE, but you do need to be certified for nursing home care and able to live safely in the community. PACE is not available in the following counties: Barnstable, Berkshire, Dukes, Franklin, and Nantucket. |
| Personal Care Attendant (PCA) | (800) 841-2900 | PCA gives seniors with disabilities, including cognitive impairments, the funds to hire caregivers at their own homes or within community settings. While the recipients of PCA are intended to hire, train, schedule and fire their own personal care attendants, there are organizations throughout the state that can manage these activities for your loved one. |
| Senior Care Options (SCO) | (888) 885-0484 | SCO is a Medicare-Medicaid partnership program that offers managed care to seniors within a network of providers, which can include specialized memory care units and other long-term care facilities. It covers specialized geriatric support services that are also available within MassHealth. Since this is a managed care program, there are no copayments for services. |
| MFP Residential Supports (MFP-RS) | (855) 499-5109 | MFP is available for current residents in nursing homes or other high-level medical settings who want to move back into the community. It can pay for the memory care services seniors need at home or in long-term care communities, so they can stay out of an institutional setting. MFP-RS funds assisted living services, home accessibility adaptations, orientation and mobility services, speech therapy, specialized medical equipment and more. |
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Massachusetts
The main criteria for Medicaid eligibility in Massachusetts are your income and assets. If you’re applying for benefits as an individual in a single household, you can’t earn more than $32,904 per year, and a married couple can’t earn more than $65,808 per year. The asset limit is $2,000 for a single applicant and $4,000 for a married couple. These figures are for MassHealth coverage for seniors who need long-term care services, not for a standard MassHealth plan.
2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Massachusetts
*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.
****Assets are limited to $2,000 per spouse
To qualify for MassHealth and its waivers, you must also demonstrate that you are:
- Aged 65 or older or aged 60 to 64 with a disability
- A resident of Massachusetts
- In need of a nursing home level of care
- In or ready to move into long-term care
How to Apply for Medicaid
You can apply for Medicaid by:
- Mail by printing and filling out the Application for Health Coverage for Seniors and People Needing Long-Term-Care Services and mailing it to the address listed in the application.
- Faxing your completed application, along with the necessary documents, to (617) 887-8799.
- Visiting MassHealth Enrollment Centers (MECs) in person.
Information You Will Need
- Social Security number
- Proof of income and assets
- Proof of residency and citizenship
- Existing health insurance policy numbers
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
If you have any trouble applying for Medicaid on your own, the following programs may be able to help.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| MassHealth Customer Service Center | (800) 841-2900 | The MCSC can help you determine eligibility and apply for benefits. It can also replace lost cards and answer questions over the phone 24/7. |
| SHINE Program | (800) 243-4636 | The Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone program aims to help low-income seniors with their benefits. The program is available to anyone on Medicare, and counseling services are free. |
| Benefits.gov | Online only | This online resource provides free information about Medicaid and is run by the federal government. You can use the site to see if you qualify for MassHealth and learn more about your benefits options. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Massachusetts?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Massachusetts
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.
| 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 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 Massachusetts
There are many resources in Massachusetts 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Area Agencies on Aging | Massachusetts is home to many Area Agencies on Aging that provide supportive services to older adults. These agencies can help seniors get connected with local programs that assist them with daily needs, including caregiver support, transportation services, meal programs and health and wellness resources. AAAs also work to combat elder abuse and fraud and empower seniors to ensure a life of safety and dignity. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Massachusetts 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Worcester State University Categorical Tuition Waiver | 508-929-8051 | Under Massachusetts law, adults 60 years of age and up may take classes at public universities without paying tuition. You may still need to pay campus and class fees, and not all classes are available under the waiver program. Contact a specific's college bursar's office for availability. |
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 Massachusetts seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Meals on Wheels | Massachusetts Meals on Wheels supplies an estimated 30,000 meals per day to seniors across the state, either as a home-delivery service or as congregate meals served in the community. There are more than 20 agencies across the state that help to manage local and regional Meals on Wheels programs. Any senior struggling to prepare meals on their own may be eligible for these services. Costs are based on a sliding scale. | |
| Massachusetts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 877-382-2363 | The Department of Transitional Assistance operates Massachusetts' Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to provide monthly funds on an electronic benefits card, contributing to seniors' healthy food budget. To be eligible, seniors must provide proof of residency, Social Security number or similar documentation and proof of income, including any veteran's benefits and Social Security payments. Seniors who participate in SNAP can receive money back on their EBT cards by purchasing local produce through the Healthy Incentives Program. |
| Massachusetts The Charity Guild Food Pantry | 508-583-5280 | Located in Brockton, the Charity Guild Food Pantry distributes perishable and nonperishable foods to seniors, families and individuals in need. It's part of The Greater Boston Food Bank and its doors are open to anyone, not just those living in Brockton. Seniors needing assistance may visit the pantry Tuesday through Thursday and every other Saturday. Those who are homebound can arrange to have food parcels delivered to their door. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Massachusetts 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Easterseals Massachusetts Long-Term Device Loan Program | 800-244-2756 | Easterseals Massachusetts long-term device loan program is for those on low incomes who may be unable to purchase medical equipment for home use. The service provides assistive technology, such as phones with large tactile buttons, wrist-cuff blood pressure monitors and screen reading devices. |
| Massachusetts Compassionate Care ALS | 508-444-6775 | Compassionate Care ALS is a nonprofit that helps people who have been diagnosed with ALS. In addition to support services, the organization provides new and gently used equipment to people diagnosed with ALS. These can include voice amplifiers, speech communication devices and wheelchairs. |
| Massachusetts Hospital Equipment Loan Program | 781-322-1052 | The Hospital Equipment Loan Program loans medical equipment free of charge and for home use only. Subject to donations and availability, seniors can request various devices, such as electric lift chairs, exercise bikes, rollators and under mattress supports. |
| Massachusetts REquipment Inc. | 800-261-9841 | REquipment connects residents with reconditioned mobility items, accessibility aids and assistive technology. Clients can reserve equipment online or over the phone. All items are free, and delivery or pickup is available for a nominal fee. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Massachusetts 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts ConnectorCare | ConnectorCare plans help residents with incomes not exceeding 300% of the federal poverty level. Because several insurers participate in ConnectorCare plans, you should check that a plan satisfies your medical care and prescription drug needs | |
| Massachusetts MassOptions | 800-243-4636 | MassOptions is a statewide service that helps older adults connect with programs and supports in the community. It has an up-to-date online database with service providers, which seniors can browse through on their own or call the toll-free hotline for one-on-one assistance. The program also administers the statewide health insurance options counseling program, which provides free, unbiased advice and information to Medicare beneficiaries. |
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 Massachusetts have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP) | 866-500-5599 | The Home Modification Loan Program provides older residents with interest-free loans, which they can use to adapt their homes to their needs. Loans are repaid when the owner sells the property or transfers the title deed. |
| Massachusetts Weatherization Assistance Program | The purpose of the Weatherization Assistance Program is to improve the energy efficiency of seniors' homes, which can reduce utility costs, while also making living spaces safer. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Massachusetts 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Councils on Aging | 413-527-6425 | Throughout the state of Massachusetts, 350 Councils on Aging and Senior Centers provide local help to seniors on the community level. This may include transportation and meals, as well as outreach and companionship services. Many of these services are provided free of charge to qualified seniors living at home. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Massachusetts 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts North Shore Community College Tuition Waivers | 978-762-4000 | Massachusetts residents aged 60 and older are eligible for a categorical tuition waiver at the state's educational institutions. Seniors can use this discount to sign up for in-person or online courses offered by North Shore Community College. Course fees still apply. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Massachusetts 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Age 65 or Over Exemption | 800-392-6089 | The exemption is $700 for a single adult, and a married couple may be eligible for $700 each if they're both aged 65+ before the final day of the tax year. |
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. Massachusetts 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Fuel Assistance Programs | 617-573-1100 | Massachusetts Fuel Assistance Programs are aimed at assisting seniors with home heating costs during the state's severe winters. Residents who receive SNAP or other low-income benefits can qualify for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as well as discounted utility rates. Applications for LIHEAP open on October 1. Seniors may be eligible for one-time emergency financing from the Salvation Army Good Neighbor Fund or Joe-4-Oil. |
| Massachusetts Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | 617-573-1100 | The Massachusetts Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) assists eligible seniors with their home heating bills. Residents who qualify must have income equal to or lower than 60% of the estimated state median income for Massachusetts. Applications are open online on October 1 and available in person at one of several local LIHEAP agencies. Residents must provide a photo ID, a list of household members, income proof and a heating bill copy. |
Veteran's Services
Massachusetts 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts VA Benefits and Health Care | Massachusetts VA Benefits and Health Care offers medical care and practical assistance for senior veterans. It also oversees three national cemeteries. Older veterans with medical needs can obtain treatment at four medical centers located in Brockton, Leeds, Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury. Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital and several community-based outpatient clinics offer varying levels of medical care. Seniors can check if they are receiving all the financial assistance they qualify for and can also access community supports through seven vet centers. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, memory support services are typically provided in special care residences in assisted living facilities. These facilities are governed by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs, which is responsible for certifying facilities and ensuring they abide by regulations pertaining to service planning, staffing, medication management and Medicaid coverage.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Memory care facilities have 24-hour awake staff and provide assistance with the activities of daily living, meals and snacks and medication management. These facilities also have daily planned activities that promote large motor control, self-care tasks, memory-stimulating activities and social events. They may contract with licensed third-party service providers to offer part-time or intermittent nursing care for those who need an intermediate level of care. Facilities are not permitted to provide 24-hour nursing care or advanced nursing services, even through third-party providers. |
| Care Plans | Prior to admitting a new resident, a memory care facility must conduct an initial screening and assessment to determine the individual's needs and the facility's ability to meet those needs. Within three months of admission, the facility must develop a service plan based on the initial assessment as well as an evaluation conducted by a licensed physician. The service plan must include information regarding current medications, allergies, dietary requirements, need for evacuation assistance in an emergency, level of personal care needs and ability to manage medications. A review of the care plan must be conducted every six months or when the resident's needs change. |
| Medication Management | Memory care facilities are required to provide medication management services for self-administered medications. This includes medication reminders, opening containers and pre-packaged medications, reading the label to residents and observing them while they take the medicine. Limited medication administration is an optional service and may only be provided by a family member or a medical practitioner. A nurse may only administer medication from an original, pharmacy-filled and labeled container. |
| Staffing | Massachusetts doesn't impose minimum staffing ratios, but facilities must have sufficient staffing at all times to meet scheduled and unscheduled needs as outlined in each resident's care plans. All direct care staff and contracted providers must undergo a seven-hour orientation prior to employment that covers various topics, such as resident rights, recognizing and reporting abuse, a general overview of dementia and management of self-administered medications. In addition to this, all new employees must receive an additional seven hours of training on topics related to caring for those with dementia, including communication skills, creating a therapeutic environment and dealing with difficult behaviors. |
| Medicaid Coverage | MassHealth covers some memory care expenses through waiver programs. These programs provide coverage for personal care and supportive services. |
| Reporting Abuse | Residents or family members may report confirmed or suspected abuse to the Executive Office of Elder Affairs online or the state's long-term care ombudsman. |
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