With a population of nearly 1.8 million people, Idaho has a lot to offer residents, including stunning scenery and lower-than-average costs for health care. Many people choose to settle down and retire in the state, as 16.3% of the population is aged 65 and older. To help these individuals with their long-term care needs, the state of Idaho has 82 nursing homes available to serve the aging population.

In these nursing homes, seniors receive around-the-clock supervision and skilled nursing professionals are on hand to provide needed care. The average cost for care in a semiprivate room in an Idaho nursing home is $8,669 a month, according to the 2020 Genworth Cost of Care Survey. Seniors who prefer a private room can expect to pay an average of $9,125 per month.

This guide will help seniors and their families find the right nursing home care, outline ways to pay for that care and showcase resources that can help seniors stay healthy and well as they age in Idaho.

The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Idaho

Idaho is an fairly average state when it comes to the cost of nursing home care. For a semiprivate room, Idaho residents pay an average of $8,669 per month, according to the 2020 Genworth Cost of Care Survey. This is right in the middle compared to costs in surrounding states. Washington and Oregon have considerably higher costs of $9,581 and $10,114, respectively. This level of care costs significantly less in Utah and Montana, where the respective averages are $6,388 and $7,665. The cost of nursing home care in Idaho is also notably higher than the United States average of $7,756 per month.

$8669

Idaho

$7756

The United States

$10114

Oregon

$9581

Washington

$7665

Montana

$6388

Utah

The cost of nursing home care in Idaho varies depending on where a senior chooses to retire. In Coeur d’Alene in the northern part of the state, the average is very close to the state average. Here, seniors pay $8,638 a month for nursing home care. In Twin Falls the cost is similar, but a little higher, at $8,836. Boise has the highest average in the state at $9,125, while Lewiston has the lowest at $7,254 per month. Idaho Falls is also on the high end at $9,064, while in Pocatello, seniors pay just $8,213.

$9125

Boise

$9064

Idaho Falls

$8638

Coeur d’Alene

$8836

Twin Falls

$8213

Pocatello

$7254

Lewiston

Nursing home care is one of several options for care in Idaho. Seniors who don’t require 24/7 supervision or skilled nursing care may opt to live in an assisted living community. The average cost for this type of care is $3,675 a month. The most affordable option is adult day care, which averages $2,297 per month. Both home care and home health care average $4,481 a month, based on 44 hours of care a week. Home care can allow seniors to age in place with a little extra assistance, and home health care includes basic medical care. All of these care options are considerably less expensive than nursing home care, which averages $8,669 a month.

$4481

In-Home Care

$4481

Home Health Care

$2297

Adult Day Care

$3675

Assisted Living Facility

$8669

Nursing Home Care

Does Medicaid Cover Nursing Home Care in Idaho?

Idaho Medicaid covers the costs associated with nursing home care for eligible individuals in a Medicaid-approved facility. Items that may be covered include the cost of room and board, housekeeping, grooming, bathing, toileting and general nursing. As of September 2021, approximately 398,309 individuals were enrolled in Idaho Medicaid, and that number rose by nearly 68%, up from 160,159, in the past eight years.

To accommodate those who require nursing home care, the state has a total of 79 facilities with approximately 4,312 beds. As an alternative to nursing home care, the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Aged and Disabled Waiver pays for services for individuals who want to receive care at home and delay entry into a nursing home. The program isn’t an entitlement program, so only a limited number of seniors are accepted to receive the waiver. The waiver pays for services like adult day care, homemaker services and home modifications.

Medicaid Eligibility in Idaho

Medicaid eligibility requires specific income requirements. Typically, seniors eligible for Medicaid must have an income that falls below 133% of the federal poverty level (FPL). For a single applicant, this amount is $30,516 per year or $2,543 per month. This amount also applies to a two-person household where only one individual applies. The non-applicant may be entitled to a Minimum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance (MMMNA) under the spousal impoverishment provision to prevent financial hardships.

For a two-person household when both individuals apply, the income limit is $60,792 per year or $5,066 per month.

2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Idaho

Income Limits*
Asset Limits

Single Applicant

$30,516

$2,000

Two-Person Household

(One person applying)

$30,516 per applicant

$2,000 for applicant

$137,400 for non-applicant

Two-Person Household

(Both people applying)

$60,792

$3,000

*Per year

Other Medicaid eligibility criteria includes:

  • Live in Idaho
  • Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
  • Be 65 years of age or older or have a qualifying disability

How to Apply for Medicaid in Idaho

Individuals interested in applying for Idaho Medicaid may submit an application online at Idalink. Applications are also accepted in person at any local Department of Health and Welfare field office or by calling the agency at (877) 456-1233. To apply by mail, download an application and mail it to a local field office or fax it to (866) 434-8278. Applications may also be submitted via email to MyBenefits@dhw.idaho.gov.

Information You Will Need:

  • Copy of birth certificate
  • Proof of citizenship, if born outside the United States
  • Government issued photo ID
  • Social Security number
  • Bank statements for the past 60 days
  • Proof of income for the past 60 days
  • Verification of retirement income and accounts
  • Copy of life insurance
  • Property deeds and titles
  • Legal documents for power of attorney, wills and trusts
  • VA discharge papers for veterans
  • Additional documentation to support an individual claim

Additional Medicaid Support & Resources in Idaho

Several resources are available to help seniors and other individuals get answers to questions concerning Medicaid and other health insurance. These resources may also provide application assistance and offer the ability to make changes and check on the status.

Resource
Contact
Description

(877) 456-1233

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare assists individuals when applying for benefits. The official website features an online portal for applying for insurance, plus some additional benefits for low-income households. Case workers also answer questions concerning coverage and eligibility and can direct individuals with educational materials on health and planning.

(877) 456-1233

Benefits.gov was launched by the federal government to help citizens navigate the choices for government benefits. The site helps seniors determine their eligibility and makes it possible to make adjustments to applications and to check the status.

(866) 682-3017

Healthinsurance.org is a consumer information site that provides information about public health insurance and health reform. Individuals may contact a licensed agent who can answer questions concerning coverage and eligibility.

Does Medicare Cover Nursing Home Care in Idaho?

Medicare provides limited coverage for short-term stays in a skilled nursing facility following a hospital stay, but seniors must meet a number of specific requirements. This benefit is available to beneficiaries who have been hospitalized for at least three days, excluding the date of discharge, so it’s most valuable for those who are recovering from an injury, illness or surgery.

Once seniors meet the hospitalization requirement, Medicare will pay for up to 100 days of skilled nursing per benefit period. The first 20 days are covered in full. Starting on day 21, beneficiaries must pay a daily coinsurance rate. After day 100, seniors are responsible for the entire cost.

What Does Medicare Cover?

Medicare covers a number of specific services, including:

  • Meals
  • A semiprivate room
  • Medications
  • Skilled nursing
  • Physical therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Speech therapy
  • Audiologist care
  • Medical supplies
  • Medical social services
  • Nutritional counseling
  • Ambulance transportation

What Isn’t Covered by Medicare?

Medicare does not cover long-term custodial care that addresses seniors’ day-to-day needs. This includes help with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing and using medical equipment.

For more information about Medicare and when it covers Nursing Home Care, read our Guide to Nursing Homes.

Medicare Support and Resources in Idaho

Medicare applicants in Idaho can receive assistance when applying for help through several free agencies in the state. Trained counselors can help applicants navigate the available choices and decide whether additional help is needed when paying for nursing home care.

Resource
Contact
Service

(800) 633-4227

Medicare.gov is the number one site to go to for answers to questions regarding Medicare rights, costs and available plans. This government website provides trained counselors, forms, a Medicare handbook and other resources that assist during the application process.

(208) 334-4250

SHIBA helps Idaho seniors by offering free, unbiased Medicare information and assistance through workshops, personal counseling and group presentations available via the internet, webinars and on the phone. SHIBA is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living.

(877) 456-1233

The Department of Health and Welfare helps seniors and individuals understand the available Medicare programs and services. The department also connects seniors with waiver programs and other insurance options that help pay for long-term care.

Other Financial Assistance Options for Nursing Home Care in Idaho

While Medicaid and Medicare are two of the most common programs used to pay for Nursing Home Care, there are other financial assistance options available, depending on your unique situation.

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 skilled nursing 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 nursing 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 skilled nursing 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 skilled nursing care will not typically be eligible to sign up for a LTC insurance policy.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Idaho

Idaho has a full range of programs and services that help address a variety of needs. These programs are available for free or for a small fee and address everything from transportation for medical appointments to help choosing the right nursing home.

Resource
Contact
Service

(208) 334-3833

There are six Area Agencies on Aging in Idaho that help seniors live independently and address individual needs. These agencies connect seniors with programs and services and provide caregiver support. They also serve as advocates with government agencies to develop and implement new programs.

(208) 334-3833

The long-term care ombudsman investigates complaints against long-term care communities and attempts to resolve these issues by mediation or through recommendations. The ombudsman also advocates for changes to improve the quality of life for seniors in residential care.

(208) 746-7541

Idaho Legal Services is a nonprofit organization that provides legal assistance to low-income seniors throughout the state. Legal aid helps seniors escape elder abuse, assists in fighting homelessness and can provide help obtaining food, healthcare and other benefits. Volunteers also help prepare wills and help assign powers of attorney.

(208) 780-1300

The Idaho Division of Veterans Services helps men and women who’ve served in the military address a variety of needs once they leave the service. Trained counselors provide assistance in locating healthcare, transition services, education, loans, financial assistance and monthly compensation. Assistance is also provided when applying for the Aid and Attendance Housing Benefit that provides reimbursement when paying for daily living activities.

(208) 788-3468

The Senior Connection helps pair adults ages 65 and older with essential services designed to improve their quality of life. These services include congregate and delivered meals, home care, transportation, senior centers, and health and fitness. The organization also provides general information in regard to aging and can point individuals to local resources.

COVID-19 Rules for Nursing Homes in Idaho

The following information is based on research done on several government websites, including coronavirus.idaho.gov. These rules apply to Independent Living Communities and other types of senior living facilities. We’ve most recently updated this data on 2/7/2022, but since COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving pandemic, contact your local senior living facility or Area Agency on Aging for more specific and up-to-date information.

Visitation Policies

Rules for Idaho Communities

Are loved ones allowed to visit to provide emotional support?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

Are relatives allowed to visit for end-of-life care?

Yes

Are residents required to quarantine after visiting with a loved one?

Not Available*

Are visitors required to wear PPE (including masks) in order to visit residents?

Yes

Are non-medical contractors (such as hairdressers and entertainers) allowed in senior living facilities?

Yes

Are visitors checked for elevated temperatures?

Yes

Are visitors required to answer questions about health, travel, and potential virus contact?

Yes

*Note: This information was not available for this state, contact your local area agency on aging or senior living facility for more information.

Outings & Social Activities

Rules for Idaho Communities

Are residents allowed to leave (errands, visiting family, etc.) for non-medical reasons?

Yes

Are residents who leave required to quarantine when they return?

No (Conditions Apply)

Are senior living communities required to cancel all group outings?

No

Are residents allowed to eat meals together in a common area?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

Are residents allowed to gather in common areas for group activites?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

COVID-19 Safety Measures for Staff and Residents

Rules for Idaho Communities

Are staff members regularly required to do a temperature check?

Yes

Are staff members regularly tested for COVID-19?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

Are staff members members regularly required to do a health and safety screening, including questions about travel, contact with positive cases, etc?

Yes

Are residents regularly screened for COVID-19 symptoms?

Yes

Are residents regularly checked for elevated temperatures?

Yes

Are residents regularly tested for COVID-19?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in Idaho

Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in Idaho
Licensing Requirements
Nursing homes must be licensed with the Department of Health and Welfare. Nursing homes must apply for their licenses at least three months before their opening date. Renewals must be applied for within 30 days of expiration.
Staffing Requirements
All nursing homes in Idaho must employ a director of nursing services. They also must have a supervising nurse and a charge nurse on staff. If the average occupancy is 90 or more residents, then the facility must have a registered nurse on duty at all times.Additionally, facilities in Idaho must have enough staff to provide 2.4 hours of nursing care per resident each day. At least two nursing staff members must be on duty at all times, as well. Only licensed nursing professionals can cover these required nursing hours.
Staff Training Requirements
Nursing home staff must meet the minimum training requirements for their required licenses, but there are no stated staff training requirements for nursing home facilities.
Admission Restrictions
Facilities must have written admission requirements and policies. They may only admit residents they have the capacity to care for appropriately.
Care Planning Requirements
A director of nursing services must create a written, individualized care plan for each resident of the nursing home. The care plan must be based on the needs of the resident, and regular reviews are required to ensure it stays up to date.
Dietary and Nutritional Services Requirements
The Department of Health and Welfare publishes an approved diet manual that nursing homes must follow. All menus must be prepared at least one week prior to serving the food, and they must be kept on file for at least 30 days. Menus must provide varied, adequate food to meet the dietary needs of residents and should account for seasonal changes.
Specialized Rehabilitative Services
Physical and occupational therapy must be provided on-site at skilled nursing facilities. Other types of specialized rehabilitative services may be met through outside care providers, but facilities should make arrangements to have these services provided as required for residents in their care. 
Medication and Pharmaceutical Services
Only licensed nurses can dispense medications and only with a written order from a doctor. Before giving a medication, the nurse must identify the resident and ensure the medication matches the resident. All medications must be stored safely and labeled with the name of the person they're prescribed for. SNFs must work with a licensed pharmacist to provide medications for patients.
Activities Requirements
Skilled nursing facilities must plan funding for their activities programs, and this funding can't be required from residents. Facilities must also provide services to meet the social and emotional needs of residents.
Infection Control Requirements
Facilities must maintain at least one isolation room with private restroom facilities to safely care for residents who have communicable diseases.
Medicaid Coverage
Nursing home care may be covered by Idaho Medicaid provided the facility complies with Medicare requirements. Individuals must meet the state's income and asset limits.