Nursing Homes in Maryland
Seniors in Maryland can enjoy bustling cities such as Baltimore or settle into a sleepy seaside town on the Chesapeake Bay. Either way, they get access to a wide range of resources and services designed to help seniors enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. World-class hospitals abound in the state, including facilities with geriatric specializations, such as Johns Hopkins Hospital. In addition, health care costs in the state are lower than the national average. Almost 16% of the state’s 6 million residents are aged 65 and above, and approximately 230 nursing homes with 30,000 beds are available to provide services to this population. Nursing homes provide residents with long-term care that can include skilled nursing services, medical monitoring and treatments, as well as meals, personal care and activity programs. The average cost of nursing home care in Maryland is $10,190 for a semiprivate room and $10,646 for a private room.
This guide has detailed information about the cost of nursing home care in the state, financial assistance, other resources available and nursing home regulations to help seniors and their families make decisions about their future.
The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Maryland
Seniors in Maryland pay an average of $10,190 per month for nursing home care, according to Genworth Financial’s Cost of Care 2020 Survey. This is $2,434 more than the national average of $7,756. Compared to neighboring states, Maryland’s costs are in the middle of the range. Virginia has significantly lower costs at $7,665 per month, while in Pennsylvania, prices are slightly lower than Maryland, at $10,038. Seniors in West Virginia pay $11,376 per month, $1,186 more than those in Maryland.
There is a wide range of prices for nursing home care across Maryland, and seniors in different cities can incur very different costs. California and Cumberland are the most affordable cities, with an average of $8,137 and $8,213 respectively. Seniors in Hagerstown pay $9,794, while in Salisbury the cost is $10,768. Bethesda has an average cost of $11,726, and Baltimore is the least affordable city at $11,984.
Nursing home care is the most expensive senior care option available, reflecting the skilled nursing and medical care it provides residents. The most affordable option is adult day care, at a cost of $1,842 per month. Assisted living in the state comes in at $5,000 monthly. In-home care and home health care are both more affordable than assisted living, averaging $4,576 and $4,767 respectively. This type of care, which offers services in the home, may be an option for people who need nursing home level care but want to age in place.
Does Medicaid Cover Nursing Home Care in Maryland?
Medicaid currently covers the costs of nursing home care for four out of every eight nursing home residents in Maryland. The state has an expanded coverage system that includes low-income adults. Around 18% of the population — just over 1.5 million people — is covered by Medicaid in Maryland. The program can cover the costs of a semiprivate room, board and laundry services for enrolled seniors residing in nursing homes. In addition, it covers basic medical equipment and supplies, medications, on-site physicians, nursing support and social services.
Maryland has approximately 230 nursing homes, and all of them accept Medicaid. An estimated 30,000 beds are available for nursing home care in the state, and residents can expect 24/7 hospital-like levels of care. The Statewide Medicaid Nursing Home Care Program helps seniors cover some of the fees associated with nursing home care. Those who’d prefer to remain in their own homes or communities may be eligible for the Medicaid Long Term Services and Supports program.
Medicaid Eligibility in Maryland
Applicants must meet certain medical and financial requirements in order to be eligible for Medicaid.
Financial eligibility is determined by the Department of Social Services. People who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are automatically financially eligible for Medicaid. For 2022, those who require institutional care cannot have incomes that exceed the cost of care, whether as a single applicant or as a married couple. Asset limits are $2,500 per person with an increased $3,000 limit per person for 6 months when couples apply.
2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Maryland
Annual Income Limits
Asset Limits
Single Applicant
Cost of care must exceed income
$2,500
Two-Person Household (Only One Person Applying)
Cost of care must exceed income
$2,500 for applicant and $137,400 for nonapplicant
Two-Person Household (Both People Applying)
Cost of care must exceed income
$6,000 initially, dropping to $5,000 after 6 months
Additionally, the senior applying:
- Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Must reside in the state of Maryland
Hospitals will apply for medical eligibility on behalf of seniors who are in hospital care prior to admission to a nursing home facility. Those who are in another setting prior to admission require a physician to complete a Medical Eligibility Review Form DHMH 3871. This form must be mailed with supporting documents to the Delmarva Foundation for consideration.
How To Apply for Medicaid in Maryland
Seniors in Maryland have several options when applying for Medicaid. They can apply online through the MDThink website, mail their completed application to their local Department of Social Services or apply in person at the Department of Social Services. Seniors can phone (877) 463-3464 for assistance in completing the online or downloaded forms. Applicants can ensure the process runs smoothly by having all the required documents available before starting the application process. The process normally takes three to four months but may be delayed by insufficient documentation.
Information You Will Need
- Copy of birth certificate
- Proof of citizenship or legal residency if born outside the United States
- Social Security card
- Medicare details if applicable
- Property deeds
- Bank statements for the past 60 months before the application date, including any closed accounts
- VA discharge papers if a veteran
- Proof of income for the past 60 months before the application date, including 1099s
- Verification of any pension income
- Copies of life insurance documents
- Car registration papers
- Proof of property sold or transferred in the 60 months prior to the application date
- If applicable, final will, power of attorney and trust documents
- Any other documents the applicant feels may support their case
Additional Medicaid Support & Resources in Maryland
The following free resources are dedicated to helping families and seniors navigate the complicated process that surrounds Medicaid applications.
Resource
Contact
Service
(800) 243-3425
The Maryland Department of Aging is operated by the Maryland Department of Health. It provides information regarding long-term care in the state and the steps required to obtain financial assistance toward nursing home care. Seniors and their families can obtain information from the website or visit their local office to ask any questions they may have.
Online Only
The American Council on Aging runs the Medicaid Planning Assistance Website. The site contains step-by-step guides for seniors and their families looking to apply for Medicaid coverage. The website offers a screening test that enables families to find out if their loved one is eligible for Medicaid. In addition, the website contains information on Medicaid basics and income regulations by state.
(800) 456-8900
Benefits.gov is a federal website that contains an overview of Medicaid coverage in Maryland. This information is a useful starting point for families that are new to the process and are looking for contact details and general information regarding Medicaid.
Does Medicare Cover Nursing Home Care in Maryland?
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 Maryland
Families considering nursing home care for their loved ones may be interested to know the extent to which Medicare will assist in covering costs. Trained advisers from the following organizations are able to assist families in finding information and guidance that could help in their particular situation.
Resource
Contact
Services
(410) 767-2077
The State Health Insurance Assistance Program is administered by the Maryland Department of Aging and operated by local offices throughout the state. Volunteers provide free and unbiased information to seniors and their loved ones regarding Medicare. The trained volunteers don't receive a commission or promote any particular private insurance companies while discussing alternatives to Medicare. Sessions can be conducted in person or by phone. The volunteers are able to guide seniors through the process of applying for coverage that best suits their unique situation.
(800) 633-4227
Medicare.gov is a website operated by the federal government that provides information on all aspects of Medicare. It has a live chat function that ensures seniors and their families can ask questions and get the information they require 24/7. The website gives a general overview of Medicare as well as state-specific information such as phone numbers and links to useful websites.
(800) 794-6559
Benefits Checkup is a national resource operated by the National Council on Aging. Seniors or their family members can take a short online quiz that will link them to benefits that may be available to them. Some of these benefits include Medicare Savings Programs and state-specific waivers. In addition, families can call the helpline to have their questions regarding Medicare or any other benefits answered by trained volunteers.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Nursing Home Care in Maryland
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 Maryland
The state of Maryland offers a range of resources to assist seniors living in the state. A few of these resources are aimed at seniors living in nursing home care, while others are designed to meet the needs of those still living in the community. Some of these resources aim to help seniors age in place in an assisted living community or in their own home.
Resource
Contact
Service
Contact the local office of the Department of Social Services
The Department of Social Services offers an in-home aides services program that assists seniors with disabilities who want to remain in their own homes. The program provides trained aides who are able to assist in a range of tasks, including bathing, meal preparation, cleaning and personal care. In addition, the program provides self-care training and case management services. Funding for the program is limited and there is a waiting list for the services. Applicants are prioritized according to need.
(844) 627-5465
The Area Agencies on Aging are local offices situated throughout the state that provide information and resources for seniors. The services offered differ between locations but may include planning assistance, caregiver support, assistance in applying for benefits, community services, legal assistance and in-home services. Senior centers operated by the agencies offer meals, social activities and wellness programs.
(301) 429-7409
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development operates a program that provides improvements to the homes of seniors aged 55 and older to make the homes safer and more accessible. Improvements offered may include grab bar and safety rail installations, ramp installations and widening of door frames. Funding is provided through zero percent interest deferred loans or grants. Applicants must own the home that requires modifications.
Contact local ombudsman
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program protects the rights and promotes the well-being of seniors in long-term care facilities such as nursing homes and assisted living communities. The program educates residents on their rights and advocates for change on a statewide and national level. It independently investigates complaints from seniors and works to resolve conflicts and issues.
(844) 627-5465
The Senior Care Services Program is run by local Maryland Access Point offices throughout the state. The program provides a range of assistance and support services to seniors aged 65 and older who are at risk of nursing home placement. The program enables seniors to age in place in their own homes or communities. A case manager asses the unique care requirements of each senior and coordinates the required services. Some of the services provided by the program include respite care, adult day care, home-delivered meals, chore services, personal care and emergency response systems.
COVID-19 Rules for Nursing Homes in Maryland
The following information is based on research done on several government websites, including coronavirus.maryland.gov. These rules apply to Independent Living Communities and other types of senior living facilities. We’ve most recently updated this data on 2/8/2022, 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
Are loved ones allowed to visit to provide emotional support?
Are relatives allowed to visit for end-of-life care?
Are residents required to quarantine after visiting with a loved one?
Are visitors required to wear PPE (including masks) in order to visit residents?
Are non-medical contractors (such as hairdressers and entertainers) allowed in senior living facilities?
Are visitors checked for elevated temperatures?
Are visitors required to answer questions about health, travel, and potential virus contact?
Outings & Social Activities
Are residents allowed to leave (errands, visiting family, etc.) for non-medical reasons?
Are residents who leave required to quarantine when they return?
Are senior living communities required to cancel all group outings?
Are residents allowed to eat meals together in a common area?
Are residents allowed to gather in common areas for group activites?
COVID-19 Safety Measures for Staff and Residents
Are staff members regularly required to do a temperature check?
Are staff members regularly tested for COVID-19?
Are staff members members regularly required to do a health and safety screening, including questions about travel, contact with positive cases, etc?
Are residents regularly screened for COVID-19 symptoms?
Are residents regularly checked for elevated temperatures?
Are residents regularly tested for COVID-19?
Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in Maryland
Nursing Homes Facilities in Maryland (47)
- Adelphi, MD (2)
- Annapolis, MD (4)
- Baltimore, MD (53)
- Bel Air, MD (2)
- Bethesda, MD (3)
- Boonsboro, MD (3)
- Cambridge, MD (2)
- Catonsville, MD (6)
- Centreville, MD (2)
- Chestertown, MD (3)
- Clinton, MD (4)
- Cockeysville, MD (2)
- Columbia, MD (2)
- Cumberland, MD (5)
- Denton, MD (2)
- Easton, MD (2)
- Elkton, MD (2)
- Ellicott City, MD (3)
- Frederick, MD (8)
- Frostburg, MD (2)
- Gaithersburg, MD (2)
- Glen Burnie, MD (3)
- Hagerstown, MD (7)
- Havre De Grace, MD (3)
- Hyattsville, MD (3)
- La Plata, MD (2)
- Lanham, MD (2)
- Laurel, MD (2)
- Millersville, MD (2)
- Mitchellville, MD (2)
- Mount Airy, MD (2)
- Oakland, MD (2)
- Parkville, MD (2)
- Prince Frederick, MD (2)
- Randallstown, MD (4)
- Rockville, MD (6)
- Salisbury, MD (7)
- Sandy Spring, MD (2)
- Severna Park, MD (2)
- Silver Spring, MD (12)
- Solomons, MD (3)
- Sykesville, MD (4)
- Timonium, MD (2)
- Towson, MD (10)
- Westminster, MD (2)
- Wheaton, MD (2)
- Williamsport, MD (3)