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Memory Care in Missouri
In Missouri, the number of people living with Alzheimer’s is projected to increase in the coming years. Current data available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows the impact this degenerative disease has on state seniors, who make up about 18% of the 6.2 million residents. Between 2016 and 2020, the number of deaths related to Alzheimer’s went up by 37%. By comparison, the number of deaths from all causes went up by less than 26%.
Missouri has numerous dementia care facilities to meet the needs of seniors with memory-related conditions. These communities provide peace of mind for families and expert care for residents through evidence-based programming, secure environments and engaging social and recreational activities. Residents can enjoy three meals plus snacks daily to meet their nutritional needs, and regular housekeeping and laundry services ensure a sanitary environment.
This guide provides more information on memory care in Missouri, including the benefits of obtaining services in this state, care costs in major cities throughout the state and options families may have for paying for their loved ones’ care.
The Cost of Memory Care in Missouri
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 Missouri and its 23 cities.
The Cost of Memory Care in Missouri's Top Cities
Although memory care prices in Missouri's top cities vary, they're generally more expensive than the state average of $5,502. In Columbia, costs average $6,195 monthly, which is one of the highest in the state. Springfield and Kansas City share similar prices of $5,900 and $5,933, respectively, well above the state norm. St. Louis offers an in between average value, at $5,877 per month.
Missouri
$5,502
Columbia
$6,195
Springfield
$5,900
Kansas City
$5,933
St. Louis
$5,877
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Missouri
Inflation continues to increase memory care prices. From 2022 to 2023, costs increased from $5,372 to $5,502 in Missouri. Compared to the 10.4% inflation rate nationwide that pushed rates from $4,863 to $5,369, this jump is less extreme, but Missouri's costs remain above the national norm.
Nearby, Kansas saw a 4.4% increase in costs from $5,480 to $5,587. In Oklahoma, costs rose 18.6% from $3,515 to $4,168. Arkansas experienced a 2.7% increase, with costs increasing from $4,922 to $5,056. Iowa's 10% jump raised costs from $5,376 to $5,914.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | $5,372 | $5,502 | $5,859 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Kansas | $5,480 | $5,587 | $5,721 |
| Oklahoma | $3,515 | $4,168 | $4,553 |
| Arkansas | $4,922 | $5,056 | $5,385 |
| Iowa | $5,376 | $5,914 | $6,299 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Senior living options in Missouri are available at several price points depending on the level of care. Other factors, such as how much assistance is required and the availability of various amenities, can influence the monthly bill. Independent living averages $2,822 in Missouri, making it the most affordable option. Assisted living averages $4,217 monthly for general assistance and access to 24/7 caregivers. Memory care is priced higher, averaging $4,217, due to additional dementia support offered.
Assisted Living
$4,217
Memory Care
$5,502
Independent Living
$2,822
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Missouri?
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 Missouri.
MO HealthNet is Missouri’s Medicaid program. While MO HealthNet does not cover memory care, seniors in Missouri who qualify for Medicaid and require residential memory care services can apply to the Missouri Care Options (MCO) program. The MCO provides long-term care services, with the aim of enabling people to live as independently as possible. It is also available for those who would normally need long-term care at a nursing home level. The program funds a range of medical and non-medical support and services, which may be delivered at home, at an adult day care program or in an environment that offers daily personal services and assistance, such as a residential care facility.
Seniors requiring memory care may also apply for MO HealthNet’s Supplemental Nursing Care financial assistance program. The program provides monthly cash payments to assist seniors residing in a residential care facility (RCF) or assisted living facility (ALF) with meeting the costs of their care.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Missouri?
Although Missouri does not provide assistance especially for memory care services, the Missouri Care Options program can help seniors to offset some of the costs associated with residential memory care. The program may fund assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, eating, dressing and toileting. It may also provide help with physical needs, along with housekeeping and other homemaking tasks. Nursing care may also be covered, including 24-hour care that provides continuous personal and medical assistance.
As Supplemental Nursing Care (SNC) is a cash payment made directly to recipients, seniors are free to use the money to fund any elements of their care. For people living in a residential care facility, the maximum monthly payment is $156. Seniors living in an assisted living facility, including those that admit people with dementia, may receive up to $292 per month. Anyone who receives SNC also gets a personal needs allowance of $50. Seniors must be aged 65 or older to be eligible for SNC, and they must undergo screening by the Department of Health and Senior Services. Eligibility is also based on the applicant’s income being less than the facility’s base rate.
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Missouri
In Missouri, eligibility for MO HealthNet Medicaid cover is based on an individual’s income and assets. An applicant’s annual household income before taxes must not exceed 85% of the federal poverty level to be able to claim Medicaid assistance. The maximum income for single applicants is $19,176, and for couples the maximum permitted yearly household income increases to $38,352. Individuals have an asset limit of $5,301.85. This doubles for couples to provide an asset limit of $10,603.70.
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $19,176 | $5,302 | |
| Two People | 1 | $19,176 | $5,302 | 148,620 |
| Two People | 2 | $38,352** | $10,604 |
*Depending on the facility setting, a recipient may not be able to keep income up to this level.
**Income limit is $1,598 per month per spouse.
Eligibility for MO HealthNet for seniors also depends on other factors, including age, citizenship and residency. To qualify for Medicaid assistance as a senior in Missouri you must:
- Be 65 years old or above
- Be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen
- Be a full-time resident of Missouri
- Have a Social Security number
How to Apply for Medicaid in Missouri
There are several ways to apply for MO HealthNet, Missouri’s Medicaid program. The MyDSS online portal, part of the Missouri Department of Social Services, is accessible 24/7. People can also apply by telephone by calling (855) 373-9994 during regular office hours.
Alternatively, individuals can download and print a paper application form. Once completed, the form can be returned by post to the Family Support Division at 615 E 13th Street, Kansas City, MO 64106. It can also be sent by fax to (573) 526-9400, or scanned and emailed to FSD.Documents@dss.mo.gov.
Note that seniors also need to complete the Supplemental Form.
Information You Will Need
Seniors will need to supply certain information when applying for MO HealthNet. This includes proof of all incomes, recent bank statements, information about all assets and details about any insurance policies, such as health and life insurance.
You’ll also need to provide:
- Photographic proof of identity
- Proof of local residency
- Proof of citizenship or residency status
- Social Security number
- Recent medical expenses
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Seniors who require assistance applying for Medicaid in Missouri can call the Family Support Division Contact Center for help making claims, to obtain information about eligibility and to check the status of claims. Seniors may also contact their local Area Agency on Aging for free advice and help related to diverse topics, including Medicaid, and MO HealthNet Division is a valuable online source of information. Some senior centers in Missouri may also offer Medicaid counseling and workshops for elders.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Family Support Division Contact Center | (855) 373-9994 | Advisers provide information about Medicaid eligibility and assist with applications over the telephone during office hours. |
| Area Agencies on Aging | (573) 526-4542 | Located throughout the state and known collectively as MA4, Missouri’s 10 Area Agencies on Aging provide free advice and assistance to people aged 60 and above, including on issues related to Medicaid. Seniors can visit or call their local AAA office. |
| MO HealthNet Division | Online | This website includes comprehensive details about Medicaid, including various programs and waivers. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Missouri?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Missouri. 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 Missouri.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Missouri
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 | 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 Missouri
There are many resources in Missouri 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri Area Agencies on Aging | Missouri's Area Agencies on Aging provide information and assistance that older adults and their families can use to enhance their daily quality of life. They help support seniors' health and wellness through food assistance programs, exercise classes and transportation to medical appointments. The agencies also connect seniors to groups providing in-home services, home modifications and legal assistance. Older Missourians can use local AAA's resources, including case management, respite and caregiver services, to help them maintain their independence and autonomy. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Missouri 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri Lifeline Program | 800-234-9473 | The Missouri Lifeline program grants seniors a price reduction on phone and internet prices, helping them stay connected to loved ones, medical professionals and the rest of the outside world. Interested eligible Missourians within a particular income range must register with a participating internet or phone company if their current provider isn't part of the program. Seniors must submit an application and the appropriate documentation to apply for the program. |
| Missouri Temporary Assistance (TA) | 855-373-4636 | Missouri residents, including seniors, may qualify for Missouri Temporary Assistance if they are the parent or guardian of a child under 18. This cash assistance program provides a monthly payment to those who are eligible. The value of any assets, other than a home and one automobile, must not exceed $1,000. Seniors applying for this program must also meet income requirements. Residents can call (855) 373-4636 to learn more about this financial assistance program. |
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 Missouri seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri Meals on Wheels | Missouri Meals on Wheels provides nutritious meals and socialization for statewide seniors ages 60 and over. Those who are mobile enough can attend congregate meals with their peers, while those who are immobile can receive daily meal deliveries to their homes. Each meal delivery includes a safety check, and emergency authorities will be alerted if a fall, accident or emergency situation does arise. Meals are provided on a sliding-fee scale, so they range from free to full cost. | |
| Missouri Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 855-823-4908 | The Missouri Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides qualified seniors with financial help to buy healthy foods. Missouri residents who meet the income requirements for participants ages 60 and older qualify for an electronic benefit once a month that's accepted at food retailers across the state. Other eligibility factors include having resources under $2,750 per person, excluding home, vehicle, life insurance and prepaid burials. Seniors can use the funds to supplement their current food budget, so they can prepare nutritious meals. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Living
Low-income elderly individuals in senior living communities can access financial assistance through local-run programs. These Missouri resources offer advice, guidance and support to help older adults pay for the services offered by long-term care providers.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Supplemental Nursing Care Waiver | MO HealthNet does not directly pay for nonmedical expenses, such as an assisted living community's board and service fees. If you have MO HealthNet coverage and need help paying for assisted living, you may be eligible for a Supplemental Nursing Care waiver. This waiver helps nursing home-eligible seniors stay out of more intensive levels of senior care by paying for assisted living expenses, including the monthly fee and caregiver help. The program provides a monthly cash allowance that can be paid directly to the assisted living provider to cover common costs of assisted living. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Missouri 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri Accessibility Medical Equipment | 866-201-3829 | AME provides free in-home assessments to establish participants' equipment needs. Durable medical equipment is available new or used, at a discount for income-eligible participants. |
| Missouri Swap 'n Shop Equipment Exchange Program | 816-655-6700 | Swap 'n Shop operates as a free online exchange program for people in Missouri to trade durable medical equipment and to share information about where to find needed mobility and health aids. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Missouri 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri Coalition for Quality Care | 888-262-5644 | This nonprofit organization advocates for the safety and interests of seniors in long-term care settings throughout Missouri. It strives to hold assisted living facilities accountable for the quality of their care and helps ensure seniors get the assistance they need to live a healthy, comfortable life. MCQC also accepts reports of abuse online and over the phone. |
| Missouri Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | 800-309-3282 | The Ombudsman program cultivates a network of individuals around the state to assist residents in long-term care facilities in the preservation of their rights. The program coordinates regular visits with residents to help them resolve any challenges they might encounter, and advocates and educates those unable to do so for themselves. |
| Missouri Senior Legal Helpline | 800-235-5503 | As an Older American Act funded program, the Missouri Senior Legal Helpline gets seniors aged 60 and above in contact with a regional lawyer. Older adults can get assistance and limited representation on civil matters such as living wills, advance directives, power of attorney and guardianship. The helpline doesn't provide assistance on criminal matters or traffic-related incidents. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Missouri 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri Care Planning Council (MCPC) | 800-989-8137 | The Missouri Care Planning Council (MCPC) is an organization that connects seniors in the state with a wide range of local service providers, long-term care advisors and informational resources. MCPC is focused on long-term planning but is also available for emergency situations. It accepts specific requests for help both over the phone and through its online form. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Missouri 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri Community Options and Resources (MOCOR) | 855-834-8555 | Missouri Community Options and Resources is partnered with the state departments of Health and Senior Services and Social Services to connect residents to appropriate programs in all 114 counties. Through MOCAR, older adults can access help with the activities of daily living, transportation, meals, housework, cooking and caregiver respite. Seniors must be on Medicaid to be eligible for MOCOR services. The minimum age is 63 for some resources, while most are available at age 65. |
| Missouri DHSS Division of Senior and Disability Services | 573-751-6400 | The Missouri DHSS Division of Senior and Disability Services preserves the health and independence of the state's seniors through an extensive roster of programs. These include adult day care, a meal program to help seniors meet their nutritional needs and a 24/7 Alzheimer's response service that provides emergency medical treatment. The agency also maintains an elder abuse hotline families can contact around the clock to report health and safety concerns in long-term care. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Missouri 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri 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. |
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. Missouri 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | 855-373-4636 | LIHEAP programs are administered on the local level in Missouri, and which program you apply to depends on where you live. These programs can pay a portion (up to 50%) of your gas and electricity bills, while a related program helps with the cost of water and sewer fees. Emergency bill payment assistance may also be available if you're in danger of disconnection. |
| Missouri Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) | 855-373-4636 | The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) may be able to help you with a one-time payment for your water and/or wastewater (sewer) bill from November - September. The maximum amount you could get is $750.00. LIHWAP can help with: • Disconnection or reconnection fees • Threat of disconnection • Past due and current bills |
| Missouri Water/Wastewater Utility Bill Credit Program | 816-439-4460 | Qualified seniors are eligible for a 15% reduction in their water and wastewater rates through Liberty's Utility Bill Credit Program. Older adults must provide paperwork proving they meet certain requirements to receive the bill credit. |
Veteran's Services
Missouri 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri VA Benefits and Health Care | Missouri VA Benefits and Health Care provides medical services to senior veterans. These centers are located throughout the state and provide claims assistance, counseling and other services that may help veterans and their families. Missouri also hosts multiple senior centers for veterans where recreational, social and education opportunities are available. All veterans can reach the Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1 for immediate telephone assistance. | |
| Missouri Veterans Care Coordination | 855-380-4400 | Veterans Care Coordination is a nonprofit organization based in Saint Louis that strives to connect veterans in the community with affordable long-term care options, including assisted living facilities. It works with veterans and their families to ensure they get the pensions and Aid & Attendance benefits they deserve. It also coordinates the delivery of care at home or in assisted living, making lives easier for eligible families. |
| Veterans Services Program | 314-253-4455 | The Veterans Services Program in Jefferson City, MO, provides counseling and support for veterans and their dependents. Accredited Veterans Services Officers can assist eligible seniors with completing applications for VA benefits. VSOs can also provide advice about survivor's benefits, burial payments, disability payments and health care. A VSO is available Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Missouri
In Missouri, memory care is situated in assisted living facilities and is governed by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. The department has a range of regulations for these facilities to follow to ensure high-quality care, including laws pertaining to care plan requirements, staffing ratios and medication management.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Memory care facilities in Missouri provide 24-hour care and services to three or more adults that need room, board and protective oversight. This may include medication storage and short-term care following illness or hospitalization. These facilities provide three meals daily. They must also accommodate residents who would require minimal or more than minimal assistance to evacuate the building in the event of an emergency. |
| Care Plans | Prior to admitting a new resident, a memory care facility must conduct a thorough screening to ensure that the facility can meet the individual's needs. Within five days of admission, the facility must conduct an assessment using a Department-approved assessment tool to document the individual's medical status and outline any necessary special orders or procedures. This assessment must be repeated semi-annually or whenever the resident experiences a significant change in ability or cognitive function. |
| Medication Management | With the approval of a licensed health provider, memory care residents may self-administer prescription and nonprescription medications. The resident's medication regimen must be reviewed every other month by physician, pharmacist or registered nurse. Staff who administer medications, must be level I-certified medication aide or certified medication technicians unless they are a physician, nurse or pharmacist. Injections must be administered by a nurse or physician, except insulin injections, which may be administered by a certified medication technician or medication aide who has completed a state-approved course for insulin administration. |
| Staffing | Memory care facilities have stricter staff-to-resident ratios than assisted living facilities and are required to have a ratio of 1:15 during day and evening shifts and 1:20 during night shifts. All staff members must complete one hour of fire safety training and orientation relevant to their duties, along with training pertaining to Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Those who provide direct care must receive at least three hours of training that includes topics such as communicating with residents with dementia, behavior management and promoting independence in ADLs. Staff that doesn't provide direct care but may come into contact with residents must have at least one hour of training. Ongoing dementia training must be incorporated in in-service curricula. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Services provided in memory care facilities may be covered by MO HealthNet via two waivers, including the Aged and Disabled waiver and the Supplemental Nursing Care waiver. |
| Reporting Abuse | All staff members who work in memory care facilities are required by law to report witnessed or suspected senior abuse, neglect or exploitation to the Missouri ombudsman program. Residents and family members may also contact the ombudsman to share concerns or complaints. |
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