Memory Care in Connecticut | MemoryCare.com

Memory Care in Connecticut

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are currently over 80,000 Connecticut residents living with Alzheimer’s, a degenerative disease of the brain that’s diagnosed in about one in nine people aged 65 and over. By 2025, it’s projected that about 91,000 Connecticut seniors will have this disease. Alzheimer's accounted for 967 deaths in 2019, making it among the most common causes of death in the state. 

Memory care facilities provide those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia with care that is tailored to their unique needs. Memory care can take place in its own facility, or as part of a designated wing of another residential care community. Staff members of memory care units or facilities undergo specialized training in caring for those with memory impairment, and the facilities often coordinate social activities and schedules specifically for the needs of those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

This guide will cover the cost of memory care in Connecticut, financial assistance options for paying for memory care, free memory care resources in the state, and a directory of memory care facilities in Connecticut.

The Cost of Memory Care in Connecticut

When figuring out how to pay for memory care, you first need to understand how much it will cost for your loved one to move to a quality community. As costs continue to rise, it's vital to have the latest details when planning for elderly care costs. In order to shed light on the impact of inflation on senior living costs, MemoryCare.com has gathered cost information from its network of over 75,000 senior living communities. These prices are based on the cost of Memory Care in Connecticut and 26 other cities in Connecticut.

How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Memory Care in Connecticut

Inflation has caused substantial jumps in the price of memory care across the United States, resulting in a 10.5% increase on average nationwide. Connecticut's prices fell 1% from 2022 to 2023, making it one of few states to see lower costs. However, costs may increase by 5% in 2024, based on trends. In other states, prices increased substantially, with Rhode Island's average rising to $7,307 and New York's to $6,449. Massachusetts only experienced a 2% jump in memory care prices, with trends predicting another 1% increase in 2024. Care costs soared by 12.5% in New Hampshire.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
Connecticut$7,310$7,257$7,637
U.S. Average$4,863$5,369$5,792
Rhode Island$6,008$7,307$7,782
Massachusetts$7,570$7,706$7,782
New York$5,244$6,449$6,416
New Hampshire$6,364$7,169$7,635

Memory Care Costs in Connecticut's Top Cities

Many cities in Connecticut have highly affordable memory care, which can help families offset the effects of inflation. With care costs averaging at $5,970, Hartford is one of the most affordable choices, but prices are also low in Stamford at $6,598. However, costs are higher than the state norm in some locations. Memory care is $8,545 in Danbury, while Norwalk's $10,915 average makes it one of the least affordable cities statewide.

The Cost of Other Types of Senior Living

Costs vary in Connecticut depending on the type of care required, with independent living being the most affordable at $3,187. Assisted living averages $5,919, reflecting the abundance of amenities, such as dining, access to health monitoring and personal care. Seniors living in memory care typically receive even more support, often alongside regular medical assessments and therapies, leading to a steeper average cost of $7,257.

Connecticut Medicaid Programs for Memory Care

Connecticut’s Medicaid program, called HUSKY Health, provides health insurance coverage for qualifying individuals. HUSKY Health comprises several programs, including HUSKY C for seniors. This program doesn’t cover memory care services directly, but it operates the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders, which pays for services in long-term care communities. 

  • Who Is Eligible: To be eligible for HUSKY C, applicants must be at least 65 years old and must meet residency and financial guidelines.  
  • How To Apply: To apply for Medicaid, seniors can submit an application online through the ConneCT website. Alternately, they can print out a paper application or request one by calling the Department of Social Services Client Information Line and Benefits Center at (855) 626-6632. They can deliver or mail the completed application to their nearest Department of Social Services field office.   

Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders   

Connecticut’s Medicaid program makes provision for long-term residential care under its Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders. This program covers a range of services, such as care management, adult day health care, companion services and homemaker services. It also includes the Assisted Living Services program, which accommodates the needs of those in memory care facilities. This comprises four packages seniors are placed into depending on their needs. All packages cover residential care services such as assistive technology, personal attendant care, a daily meal and housekeeping. Some seniors may have to contribute up to 9% of their own money toward care costs. 

  • Who Is Eligible: To be eligible for this program, applicants must be at least 65 years old and must meet income and asset limits. They must also need help with daily living activities and be at risk of nursing home placement. 
  • How To Apply: To apply for the Assisted Living Services program, seniors or the people responsible for them can enroll online through the ConneCT website. They can also print out a paper application or request one in the mail by calling the Department of Social Services Client Information Line and Benefits Center at (855) 626-6632. Seniors can deliver the completed application by submitting it in person, faxing it to (860) 424-4963 or mailing it to their nearest Department of Social Services field office.

Medicaid Eligibility for Seniors in Connecticut 

Connecticut’s Medicaid program is open to those who meet asset and income limits. Single applicants may have up to $1,600 in countable assets, and married applicants are allotted up to $2,400. The program’s income limits vary depending on which part of the state the applicant lives in. In the Southwest region, single applicants have an annual income limit of $12,624, and married applicants may have up to $19,620 in income. In the rest of the state, the income limit for single applicants is $11,292, and for married applicants, it’s $18,312.  

In addition to this income, applicants may have unearned income that doesn’t count toward these limits. Unearned income includes pensions, veterans’ benefits, stock dividends and Social Security benefits. Single applicants can have up to $409 in unearned income per month, and married applicants have a combined limit of $818. 

2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Connecticut   

family sizeannual income limitsasset limits
Single Person$12,624 (Southwest) $11,292 (North, East and West)$1,600
Two-Person Household (Single Applicant)$19,620 (Southwest) $18,312 (North, East and West)$2,400
Two-Person Household (Dual Applicants)$19,620 (Southwest) $18,312 (North, East and West)$2,400

Applicants must meet eligibility requirements outside of financial limits. To qualify, they must also be: 

  • At least 65 years old or have a qualifying disability 
  • Legal U.S. citizens or residents  
  • Residents of Connecticut  
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How To Get Help Applying for Medicaid in Connecticut 

Seniors in Connecticut can connect with several resources that help them determine their eligibility for Medicaid, understand the available coverage and appeal denied applications. This table outlines resources that can help them get the most from their health insurance coverage. 

resourcecontactdescription
DSS Client Information Line and Benefits Center855-626-6632The DSS Client Information Line and Benefits Center provides 24/7 access to information on Medicaid’s benefits and the application process through an easy-to-use interactive voice-response system. It also provides assistance from live agents who answer questions and process change requests.
Connecticut Medical Assistance ProgramOnline OnlyThe Connecticut Medical Assistance Program is an informational website that provides comprehensive information on Connecticut's Medicaid program, including what the program covers, patients’ rights and a list of Medicaid-registered health care providers.
Connecticut State Department of Aging and Disability Services860-424-5055The Connecticut State Department of Aging and Disability Services has information and referral specialists who help older adults determine whether they qualify for Medicaid and the Assisted Living Services Program, as well as other public benefits that may help cover care costs.

Can You Use Medicare To Pay for Memory Care in Connecticut?

Unfortunately, Medicare does not generally cover the cost of Memory Care. Most Memory Care Facilities are considered to be "social settings," so Medicare does not cover the cost incurred in these facilities. The only exception to that is if you are receiving memory care services in a Nursing Home. While this situation is much less common, Medicare would sometimes cover the cost, depending on a number of circumstances.

That being said, Medicare does still cover qualified doctor visits, medications, etc., as it would if you were still at home, but it will not cover the cost of care received at the Memory Care Facility.

More Ways To Pay for Memory Care in Connecticut

In addition to the state programs mentioned above, those looking for resources to finance memory care may consider:

  • Long-Term Care Insurance: Depending on the policy details, long-term care insurance may be used to pay for memory care services. It's best to sign up for a policy early, as coverage will likely be denied if one already has long-term care needs. More information about the intricacies of long-term care insurance can be found at longtermcare.acl.gov.
  • Reverse Mortgages: Reverse mortgages allow some homeowners to take out a loan as an advance from the eventual sale of their primary residence. This can be a good way to fund memory care in the short-term, but the loans will need to be paid back after the sale of the home. The most commonly used type of reverse mortgages for seniors is the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage, which is the only reverse mortgage insured by the federal government.
  • Veterans Benefits: The Department of Veterans Affairs offers several programs that veterans and their spouses may use to cover health care needs such as memory care. More information about these programs can be found on the VA website.

Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Connecticut

Memory Care Regulation

Memory care in Connecticut is regulated by the Department of Public Health, which oversees licensing and registration of assisted living services agencies, residential care homes and Alzheimer’s special care units. SCUs have specific licensing requirements and are designed to serve individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

At the time of a resident’s admission, assisted living service agencies must provide residents with a bill of rights and responsibilities that describe the agency’s services.

Facility Scope of Care

Assisted living services agencies may provide individuals with assistance with activities of daily living and nursing care within managed residential communities. MRCs should provide services designed primarily to help residents ages 55 and older live as independently as possible.

They must offer residents the following supports and services:

  • Living units with full bathrooms
  • Recreational programs
  • Three daily meals
  • Regularly scheduled housekeeping, laundry and transportation services

Assisted living services agencies may contract with third parties to provide additional services.

Admissions Requirements

Unless a resident is able to arrange for their own nursing care, assisted living facilities in Connecticut may not admit individuals requiring full-time nursing care. There are no other set rules that dictate who agencies may or may not admit, but agencies must create a plan of resident admission and discharge.

Residents Who May Be Admitted

Older adults and people with:

  • Dementia
  • Mental Health Conditions
  • Physical Disabilities
  • Developmental Disabilities
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries
  • AIDS

Residents Who May NOT Be Admitted

Those who:

  • Require full-time skilled nursing care
  • Have conditions that become unstable
  • Have unpaid charges
  • Pose a threat of harm to themselves or others

Care Plan Requirements

Assisted living services agencies are required to develop a resident service program through a consultation between the resident, family members and a registered nurse. This program must be developed within seven days of the resident’s admission and include specific information regarding the person’s care, service and medication requirements.

Alzheimer’s SCUs must provide residents and invested parties with an annual written disclosure including information about the program philosophy, admission procedures, program costs, service implementation and staff training.

Medication Management Requirements

Assisted living services agencies may allow residents to self-administer medications or provide medication administration by registered nurses. Care recipients may also request the supervision of an assisted living aide to oversee medication self-administration.

Facility Requirements

SCUs may exist in a variety of settings including assisted living facilities, RCHs, nursing homes, adult day care centers and adult foster homes. In all settings, SCUs must provide separate physical areas for residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia, and restrict residents’ access to areas outside the unit.

Managed residential care facilities must include private residential units with full bathrooms and an area for preparing and storing food. Facilities may not require residents to share rooms, but allow residents to do so if they wish. Common areas should comfortably hold at least 50% of the facility’s residents at any one time.

Staffing Requirements

Staff members providing dementia care must meet the licensure requirements of the specific facility and program where they are employed. They must receive initial training that includes a minimum of eight hours of dementia training within their first six months of employment, and two hours of training in recognizing pain and pain management techniques. Each staff member must complete at least eight hours of ongoing training each year. All non-direct care staff members must complete at least one hour of training within the first six months of employment.

Medicaid Policy

In Connecticut, Medicaid covers the cost of assisted living services through the Community First Choice waiver program, as well as the Medicaid-funded portion of the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders.

Reporting Abuse

Anyone suspecting abuse of an elderly Connecticut resident may call the Elder Abuse hotline at 888-385-4225. The Facility Licensing and Investigation Section investigates complaints about treatment received or care or services provided in a licensed care facility. Failure to report suspected abuse is considered a crime in Connecticut, and is punishable by a $500 fine for the first offense.

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Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Connecticut

In Connecticut, there is an abundance of resources designed to assist seniors throughout their retirement. MemoryCare.com has compiled information on a range of local organizations, programs, and agencies, categorizing them based on the care services they offer for easy browsing.

Area Agency on Aging

The Area Agency on Aging in Connecticut is a crucial asset for retired individuals, providing advice on financial assistance, home-based care, and planning for extended care. It also connects seniors and their caregivers with local resources.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut Area Agencies on AgingConnecticut's Area Agencies on Aging provide a range of free services and programs to enhance seniors' quality of life. These include assistance with public benefits applications, information on long-term care options, medical transportation, health insurance counseling, and caregiver support. Nutritious meals are available through home-delivered and congregate meal programs. Other initiatives like exercise classes, fall prevention workshops, health screenings, and respite care promote senior well-being and independence.

Cash Assistance Programs

Financial assistance initiatives exist in Connecticut to help seniors with low income sustain their home living. These initiatives provide tax reductions, discounts on crucial services, and aid for home temperature regulation costs.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut Lifeline Program800-234-9473The LifeLine Program offers discounted telephone service, enabling participants to stay connected with their loved ones through landline or mobile phones.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living

Elderly individuals in Connecticut, living independently or in elderly care homes, can avail of numerous local financial support opportunities. These aid options help reduce in-home or long-term care costs and connect them to valuable community resources.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE)800-445-5394The Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) offers aid to eligible seniors living in their own homes, adult foster care, or assisted living facilities. Its main objective is to promote aging in place by providing a variety of services that help individuals avoid the necessity of nursing home placement.

Food Assistance Programs

In Connecticut, numerous community programs focus on enhancing the health of seniors via proper diet. These initiatives provide meal delivery, shared meals, and food bank services, guaranteeing that older citizens can obtain reasonably priced, healthy food.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut 211 - Food Pantry800-203-1234Connecticut 211 helpline connects individuals in need of groceries with local agencies and programs offering temporary food assistance. Food banks have specific criteria, including income limits and residency verification. Homebound seniors who cannot cook or drive can receive home-delivered meals. These organizations also serve senior day care centers and provide special holiday meals.
Connecticut Meals on WheelsConnecticut Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious, homemade meals to seniors throughout the state. Our program serves eligible residents with limited mobility, providing convenient delivery to their homes or nearby community meal sites. We prioritize dietary needs and cultural preferences, offering a diverse and satisfying dining experience. Our sliding fee scale ensures affordability, with costs based on income.
Connecticut Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)Connecticut's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides eligible older adults with EBT cards to use at local stores.
Connecticut Elderly Nutrition ProgramThe Elderly Nutrition Program in Connecticut is a state food-assistance initiative that provides meals at community locations and home-delivered meals for eligible seniors aged 60 and above. It serves individuals who are low income, reside in rural areas, have limited English proficiency, or are at risk of losing their independence. Locations include senior centers, housing facilities, schools, churches, and similar settings.

Free Used Medical Equipment

In Connecticut, several organizations are tackling the high cost of new medical devices. They collect lightly used equipment such as wheelchairs, ramps, and walkers, distributing them to local elderly and those requiring assistance.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut ALS United Connecticut Equipment Loan Program203-874-5050The ALS United Connecticut Equipment Loan Program lends durable medical equipment (DME) to Connecticut seniors with ALS. To request equipment, individuals must be registered with the organization. The program offers a variety of DME loans, such as adaptive bathroom equipment, manual and power mobility equipment, power lifts, and communication devices. This equipment assists seniors with ALS in overcoming physical and mobility obstacles related to the disease.

Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors

Elderly residents of Connecticut with certain income brackets have access to local aid for prescription medication expenses. They might also be eligible for health coverage and other programs providing complimentary or reduced-cost healthcare services.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut ALS United Connecticut Equipment Loan Program203-874-5050The ALS United Connecticut Equipment Loan Program lends durable medical equipment (DME) to Connecticut seniors with ALS. To request equipment, individuals must be registered with the organization. The program offers a variety of DME loans, such as adaptive bathroom equipment, manual and power mobility equipment, power lifts, and communication devices. This equipment assists seniors with ALS in overcoming physical and mobility obstacles related to the disease.

Home Repair and Modifications

In Connecticut, a variety of programs exist to support seniors and those with disabilities in funding home improvements and repairs. These initiatives, providing grants or loans, feature different eligibility criteria tailored for retired individuals.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut Area Agency on Aging (AAA) Home Modification and Repair Services203-785-8533The Home Modification Repair Services program, provided by the Connecticut Area Agency on Aging, offers complimentary home modifications to support seniors in maintaining their independence at home. This includes the installation of grab bars and handrails in bathrooms, as well as making homes more accessible for wheelchair users through ramps and widened hallways and doorways. Seniors can also apply for assistance in covering minor repair costs.

In Connecticut, there are several organizations offering cost-effective or free legal aid to senior citizens. They provide advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills, and power of attorney. Some also champion the rights of the elderly in long-term care establishments.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut Statewide Legal Services800-453-3320Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut offers free and confidential aid to individuals aged 60 and above in managing civil legal matters. Our team of legal experts assists with wills, powers of attorney, and applying for public benefits like Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability Insurance, and Medicaid. These benefits can help cover assisted living costs.
Connecticut Long Term Care Ombudsman Program866-388-1888The Connecticut Long Term Care Ombudsman Program offers essential assistance and resources to those in search of quality care in long-term care facilities. Residents can access information on their rights and receive guidance on addressing care-related concerns. The ombudsman facilitates complaint resolution and facilitates connections with local councils. Additionally, they conduct investigations into allegations of abuse and neglect, promptly reporting to the appropriate authorities.

Social Security Offices

In Connecticut, Social Security offices are crucial resources for the elderly and those with disabilities. They provide advice on retirement perks, disability benefits, and additional security income.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut Social SecuritySocial Security offers financial support to retirees and those unable to work due to disability. It is funded through payroll taxes paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Monthly payments during retirement are based on past earnings.

Tax Assistance

In Connecticut, a variety of tax assistance options exist for seniors and people with disabilities. These encompass possible medical cost exemptions, property tax cuts, and other tax alleviation measures.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut Elderly/Disabled (Circuit Breaker) Tax Relief Program860-418-6290Connecticut seniors are eligible for property tax relief, with up to $1,000 available for single households and $1,250 for dual households

Transportation Assistance

For Connecticut seniors facing challenges with private transport, assistance is readily available. Community resources are on hand to support the elderly and disabled with their in-city mobility, making tasks and city appointments more manageable.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut Seniors Mobility - Section 5310 Program860-594-2560Seniors Mobility offers a wide range of service areas and equipment options at nonprofit organizations in Connecticut. These organizations provide medically needy seniors with free access to essential medical equipment.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

In Connecticut, there are establishments ready to assist seniors with limited income facing challenges with home upkeep expenses, such as energy and utility bills. Emergency financial support might be available for individuals threatened with utility disconnection due to outstanding payments.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)The Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) offers financial aid to low-income individuals for heating their homes. Eligibility is determined by household size, income, and the presence of vulnerable individuals. The program covers heating bills ranging from $410 to $1,015.

Veteran's Services

In Connecticut, retired military personnel can find essential support through local veteran services. These organizations help veterans access their deserved benefits and offer advice on a variety of issues.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Connecticut VA Benefits and Health CareConnecticut's VA Benefits and Health Care offers extensive assistance to eligible senior veterans. With a primary medical center in West Haven and clinics in Danbury, Waterbury, and Stamford, veterans can access medical care, disability benefits, in-home care, daily living support, home-delivered meals, adult day care, and assistive technology through the Veteran's Directed Care Program. Services are available to veterans aged 65 or older.

Connecticut COVID-19 Rules for Memory Care Facilities

Note: The following information was complied and most recently updated on 2/2/2022. Since COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving crisis, be sure to contact your Memory Care Facility or local Area Agency on Aging for the most up-to-date information.

questionanswer
Am I allowed to visit my loved one in person?Yes (Conditions Apply)
Is my loved one required to quarantine after I visit him or her?Not Available*
Am I required to wear a mask if I visit my loved one in person?Yes
Are visitors screened for elevated temperatures?Yes
Are residents allowed to leave the facility at-will?Not Available*
Are residents of senior living facilities who leave required to quarantine when they get back?Not Available*
Are staff members and contractors checked for elevated temperatures?Yes
Are staff members and contractors tested for COVID-19?Yes
Do staff members have to regularly screen residents for COVID-19 symptoms?Not Available*
Do staff members have to regularly check residents for elevated temperatures?Not Available*
Do staff members have to regularly test residents for COVID-19?Yes

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

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