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Memory Care in Oregon
Approximately 69,000 of Oregon’s 4.2 million residents are living with Alzheimer’s disease. The State Plan for Alzheimer’s Disease & Related Dementias in Oregon projects that the number of Oregonians living with Alzheimer’s will increase by 40% by 2025. Oregon has already seen a 19.65% increase in Alzheimer’s deaths between 2016 and 2020. Seniors and families in Oregon who are affected by Alzheimer’s can find supportive care in the form of dementia care communities.
When seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia can no longer safely live at home, moving to a memory care community is a safe option. These communities are staffed by trained professionals experienced in caring for people with memory loss disorders, and staff members are available 24/7 to provide around-the-clock care and supervision. This guide provides an overview of memory care in Oregon and give families resources for help with long-term care planning.
Find Memory Care Options Near You
The Cost of Memory Care in Oregonn
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 Oregon and its 20 cities.
Note: In Oregon, memory care is provided in communities licensed as assisted living facilities, and in general, costs 20-30% more than standard assisted living services. No authoritative cost data is available for this type of care, so we estimated memory care rates by adding 25% to assisted living fees in the Genworth 2021 Cost of Care Survey.
Nationally, memory care facilities charge $5,625 per month for services, but in Oregon, rates are considerably higher at an estimated $6,306. Seniors may save money by obtaining care in the nearby states of Idaho or Nevada, where respective care costs come in at $4,798 and $4,688. Obtaining care in Oregon is an affordable alternative to living in a memory care facility in California, where fees are higher at $6,563, or in Washington, where rates average $7,500 per month.
The Cost of Memory Care in Oregon's Top Cities
Location plays a large factor in care costs. The state median for memory care is $7,501, however, cities across Oregon have varying rates. At $7,531 and $7,500, Salem and Hillsboro are right in line with the state average, while Portland ($7,193) offers lower monthly rates. On the other end of the spectrum, Bend is one of the most expensive cities in Oregon, with average rates of $9,530.
Oregon
$7,501
Portland
$7,193
Hillsboro
$7,500
Salem
$7,531
Bend
$9,530
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Oregon
Rising inflation has caused the cost of memory care in Oregon to climb higher than ever before. From 2022 to 2023, rates rose by more than 30% ($5,734 to $7,501) — a significant increase compared to the 10.4% rise seen on a national level. While Idaho also experienced a high jump in rates from $4,255 to $5,170 (21.5%), other nearby states saw less of an impact. Washington's average costs rose by 9.8%, and Nevada's rates increased by 4.4%. California was the least affected, with rates rising just 3.5%.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $5,734 | $7,501 | $7,944 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Washington | $6,277 | $6,893 | $7,981 |
| Idaho | $4,255 | $5,170 | $5,151 |
| Nevada | $4,284 | $4,474 | $4,712 |
| California | $5,668 | $5,866 | $6,453 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Memory care in Oregon costs $7,501, however, other types of senior care are also available. These other senior living options offer varying levels of assistance, supervision, amenities and programming, which results in different costs. Independent living is ideal for self-sufficient seniors and costs $2,731 per month. Assisted living provides a degree of daily assistance, so costs are a bit higher at $5,580.
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Oregon?
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 Oregon.
Oregon’s Medicaid program pays for memory care services for qualifying individuals directly via the K Plan option and through the Aged and Physically Disabled Waiver program. These programs are designed to help individuals avoid, delay or shorten the duration of nursing home placement.
The K Plan option, officially called the Community First Choice State Plan Option, is part of the regular Medicaid program. It provides comprehensive coverage for community-based residential care as well as services in an individual’s home. The K Plan option is an entitlement of the Medicaid program and available to everyone who qualifies. The APD waiver is designed to help those in skilled nursing facilities return to their home or move to a community setting. Unlike regular Medicaid, this waiver has limited enrollment slots, and eligible applicants may be placed on a wait list.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Oregon?
Oregon Medicaid pays for many services individuals obtain in memory care facilities. The scope of covered services depends on whether the individual is enrolled in the K Plan option or the APD waiver.
K Plan Option Coverage
The K Plan, which is authorized under the Affordable Care Act, pays for services in an individual’s home or residential care community as an alternative to nursing home care. All members receive case management services plus additional services to meet their care needs. These may include:
- Adult day health care services
- Attendant care, including personal care and homemaker services
- Assistive technology
- Chore services
- Transportation
- Durable medical equipment, such as wheelchairs and walkers
- Home modifications
- Memory care services
- Respite
- Transition services to help individuals move from a nursing home to a memory care facility
Aged and Physically Disabled Waiver Coverage
Like the K Plan option, the APD waiver pays for services related to moving from a nursing home to a less restrictive environment. It has higher income allowances than regular Medicaid, so those who don’t qualify for full Medicaid coverage may still be eligible from this waiver. Those who qualify for regular Medicaid’s K Plan option and the APD waiver may be enrolled in both programs simultaneously.
Memory Care Waiver Programs in Oregon
Aged and Physically Disabled Waiver
Moving out of a nursing facility and into a less intensive environment such as a memory care facility can help individuals save thousands of dollars per year and enjoy greater freedom and flexibility, but making the transition can be expensive. While the APD waiver doesn’t cover ongoing expenses such as room and board, meals and recreational activities, it can pay for transition-related costs. Covered services may include:
- Case management
- Housing support services, including help with finding housing and submitting applications
- Transition services to move from an institutional setting to a memory care facility, including security deposits and basic furnishings
The APD waiver is available to those aged 65 and over who meet Medicaid’s residency guidelines. Additionally, applicants must be in a nursing home but want to live in at home or in a community setting. The program also has income and asset limits. Single applicants can have a monthly income of up to $2,523 and up to $2,000 in countable assets. Married applicants who are both applying for the waiver may have a joint monthly income of no more than $5,046 and up to $4,000 in countable assets. If only one spouse is applying, only their income is considered, and it can be a maximum of $2,523 per month. The applicant’s asset limit is $2,000, and the non-applicant spouse can have up to $137,400 in countable assets.
To apply for the APD waiver, individuals can request a paper application by calling the Oregon Health Plan Customer Service hotline at (800) 699-9075. They can also apply online here.
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Oregon
Applicants must meet Oregon Medicaid’s income and asset limits to qualify for coverage. Single applicants can have up to $32,904 per year in pretax income from all sources, including public benefits, pensions and retirement savings accounts. In two-person households in which both people are applying for Medicaid, the household income limit is $65,808. If only one person is applying, the income limit is the same and only the applicant’s income counts.
Applicants must also meet asset limits, which are set at $2,000 for individuals and $4,000 for married couples. If only one spouse is applying for Medicaid, the non-applicant may retain up to $148,620 in jointly owned assets.
Exceeding income and asset limits may not disqualify individuals from enrolling in Medicaid. Spend-down programs, irrevocable trust funds and spousal asset transfers can help applicants meet the program’s eligibility guidelines.
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $32,904 | $2,000 | |
| Two People | 1 | $32,904** | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two People | 2 | $65,808 | $4,000 |
*Depending on the facility setting, a recipient may not be able to keep income up to this level.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
To be eligible for Medicaid, applicants must be at least 65 years old, legal U.S. citizens or residents and permanent residents of Oregon. They must also need help with daily living activities.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Oregon
Seniors can apply for Oregon Medicaid online by submitting an application through ONE.Oregon.gov, or they can fill out and submit a paper application to:
OHP Customer Service
P.O. Box 14015
Salem OR, 97309
Individuals can call the OHP Customer Service hotline at (800) 699-9075 to get help with applying for Medicaid and Medicaid waiver programs or learn more about coverage options.
Information You Will Need
To apply for Medicaid, individuals must have the following information available:
- Social Security Number
- Date of birth (birth certificate, if available)
- Proof of citizenship or immigration documentation
- Proof of Oregon residency
- Proof of income and assets
- Policy numbers for any current health insurance plans, including TRICARE and Medicare
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Those seeking support or information regarding Oregon Medicaid have access to several government and nonprofit agencies. Through the following resources, seniors can get help with applying for the program, learning how to pay for memory care services through Medicaid and disputing denied applications or benefits.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Health Authority Ombudsman Program | (877) 642-0450 | The OHA Ombudsman Program has a trained team of advocates who help older adults get the most from their Medicaid coverage. Through this program, seniors can learn more about regular Medicaid and its waiver programs, get help with applying for coverage and dispute denied coverage for memory care services. The office generally replies to complaints regarding Medicaid coverage within 5 business days. |
| Oregon Health Plan Customer Service | (800) 699-9075 | OHP Customer Service provides in-depth information on Oregon Medicaid’s eligibility criteria and the documents applicants need to have on hand when applying. Its representatives are available by phone and via email to answer questions about Medicaid benefits, replacing lost Medicaid cards, changing plans or filing complaints. |
| Oregon Health PlanCare Coordination | (800) 562-4620 | OHPCC works in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Department of Human Services to promote access to health services. This program is free to all Oregon Medicaid beneficiaries and provides services such as nurse advice and help with finding eligible primary and specialty care providers. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Oregon?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Oregon. 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 Oregon.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Oregon
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 Oregon
There are many resources in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Area Agencies on Aging | Area Agencies on Aging in Oregon provide services for older adults that help them stay independent. With 16 agencies supporting older adults, seniors have access to assistance for community-based, home-based and caregiver support. These services include short-term nursing, personal care, such as help with personal grooming needs, home meal delivery and nonemergency medical transportation. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Lifeline | 800-848-4442 | 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 Oregon seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Meals on Wheels | Oregon Meals on Wheels operates independently-run food assistance programs throughout the state. To be eligible, seniors must be aged 60 or over or unable to shop for and prepare their own meals. These nutritious and balanced food choices are served in a congregate setting or delivered to seniors' doors with safety checks to monitor their well-being. Meals are available on a sliding-fee scale and may be free, depending on individual circumstances. Some locations offer meals that meet ethnic and cultural preferences. | |
| Oregon Food Bank | 800-777-7427 | For those facing hunger, Oregon Food Bank aims to provide access to food across the state by creating food banks and helping to eliminate the root causes of food shortages. The organization lists food banks throughout Oregon, where seniors can pick up food essentials on a regular basis. In addition, it runs a Meals on Wheels service for seniors who are unable to leave their homes or prepare meals for themselves. |
| Oregon Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 503-945-5600 | Oregon's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, operated by the Department of Human Services, offers a monthly benefit to help reduce the cost of healthy food. Seniors in the program receive Electronic Benefits Transfer cards that are reloaded with funds each month. SNAP participants can use their EBT cards at grocery stores and farmers' markets to buy food. Eligibility is restricted to Oregon residents with incomes below $29,160 for individuals. This figure increases for larger households. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Prescription Drug Program | 800-913-4284 | The Oregon Prescription Drug Program transitioned to the ArrayRx Discount Card Program on January 1, 2022. Anyone previously enrolled must re-enroll with ArrayRx.However, it's still state-sponsored and authorized by the Oregon Health Authority. The program can save participants up to 80% on generic drugs and 20% on name-brand prescriptions at most pharmacies. |
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 Oregon have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Section 504 Home Repair Program | 866-923-5626 | Seniors may apply for a home repair grant yearly through their local RD office. If they qualify, they receive a grant that they must use to make home repairs to remove health and safety hazards. Applicants may only receive a total of $10,000 in housing repair grants during their lifetime. |
| OregonCommunity Builders Program | 503-501-5719 | REACH Community Development is dedicated to helping older adults and disabled individuals age safely in their homes by providing free home repairs. A licensed, bonded and insured general contractor handles home repair projects of qualifying applicants. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Law Center (OLC) | Oregon Law Center is a statewide organization that can provide legal advice and information to seniors and low-income residents in all 36 counties in the state. OLC's volunteer attorneys assist with civil cases involving landlord-tenant disputes, government housing, financial exploitation and Social Security benefits, among others. | |
| Oregon Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | 800-522-2602 | Oregon's Long-Term Care Ombudsman program is dedicated to ensuring that seniors in assisted living facilities receive quality care. Residents or their family members can contact the program's office with concerns about the care being received in a facility. The ombudsman then investigates the issue and works as an advocate for the resident to get it resolved. Seniors and their caregivers can also contact the ombudsman to schedule a free consultation about their long-term care options in the McMinnville area. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Catholic Charities | 503-231-4866 | This nonprofit provides a variety of specialized senior services, including case management and care placement. Mental health counseling services and financial wellness education is available here, as are opportunities for volunteering and community engagement. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Alzheimer's Disease and Aging | 503-494-7772 | The center consists of a significant number of researchers whose aim is to seek new ways to prevent, cure or improve care for cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer's. People with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia can benefit from the expert knowledge of experienced neurologists working at the OSHU Brain Institute, including the renowned doctor and scientist Doctor Jeffrey Kaye, M.D. A team of specialists meets daily to assess cases, and patients with Alzheimer's and dementia may be eligible to participate in clinical trials that are conducted occasionally. In addition, there's also a wide range of support services for patients and families. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon 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 Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Senior and Disabled Property Tax Deferral Program | 800-356-4222 | Senior and disabled homeowners can borrow from the State of Oregon to pay their county property taxes through the Oregon Property Tax Deferral for Disabled and Senior Citizens program. If qualified, the Oregon Department of Revenue pays the homeowner's taxes on November 15 each year and places a lien on the home. |
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. Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP) | 800-453-5111 | OEAP is a low-income electric bill payment assistance program for low-income customers of Pacific Power and Portland General Electric. The goal is to reduce service disconnections for vulnerable customers. The program prioritizes customers in danger of having their service disconnected. |
Veteran's Services
Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon VA Benefits and Health Care | Oregon VA Benefits and Health Care connects qualified senior veterans to the services they earned through their time in the military. This may include health care coverage, income and long-term care help, depending on the veteran's unique needs and time spent in the service. The VA Medical Center is located in Portland, and the VA has clinics and satellite offices throughout the state. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Oregon
The Oregon Department of Human Services handles licensing for memory care communities. Each licensed facility must meet or exceed state requirements and train staff members on topics specific to dementia care. Licenses are valid for two years at a time, and facility inspections occur at least once during that period. To offer memory care, a residential care facility must obtain an endorsement specific to memory care on its license.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | All senior residential programs must provide a minimum of three meals a day and snacks. Menus must be published at least a week in advance. Personal and laundry services are required, along with a schedule of activities designed to meet the capabilities of the residents, including those tailored toward residents in a memory care unit. Staff must use accepted methods for supporting residents with cognitive impairments and assist with all activities of daily living. |
| Care Plans | A service plan or care plan must be completed prior to a resident moving into a memory care unit and updated within 30 days of their residency. The service plan must be evaluated and changed to meet evolving needs on a quarterly basis. |
| Medication Management | Medication can be administered by memory care staff under the supervision of a registered pharmacist or registered nurse. The supervisor must inspect medications and processes every 90 days to ensure compliance with regulations and dosage instructions. Medications must be kept secure when not being delivered to residents. |
| Staffing | While there are no specific staffing requirements beyond having ample staff available 24 hours per day, staffing minimums may be assessed after an inspection or complaint. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Several Oregon Medicaid programs may provide financial assistance with residential long-term care services. Each program has personal and financial eligibility requirements. |
| Reporting Abuse | To report suspected abuse, seniors or their loved ones can call the hotline administered by the Department of Human Services (1-855-503-SAFE), the Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman (1-800-522-2602) or a local Area Agency on Aging. |
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