Memory Care in Wyoming | MemoryCare.com

Memory Care in Wyoming

Alzheimer’s disease is a growing concern in Wyoming. More than 235 Alzheimer’s-related deaths were reported in 2019, up from 151 in 2015. This chronic condition already ranks as the state’s fifth leading cause of death, and the number of cases is projected to increase by 30% between 2020 and 2025 according to the Alzheimer’s Association. It's likely that within the next few years, more than 13,000 seniors in Wyoming will be living with this form of memory loss. Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention expects the number of Alzheimer’s and dementia cases to double.

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 Wyoming, financial assistance options for paying for memory care, free memory care resources in the state and a directory of memory care facilities in Wyoming.

The Cost of Memory Care in Wyoming

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 Wyoming.

How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Memory Care in Wyoming

The cost of memory care has risen with inflation, with prices increasing an average of 10.5% from 2022 to 2023. In Wyoming, inflation's impact is more noticeable. Seniors experienced a whopping 28% increase in memory care costs, with averages rising from $4,712 to $6,020. In 2024, rates are projected to reach a monthly average of $6,341.

In neighboring states, inflation's impact has been moderate. While costs rose an astounding 21.5% in Idaho, they rose just 3.5% and 4% in Montana and Utah, respectively. Colorado seniors experienced a 12% increase, with costs reaching $5,958 and projected to reach $6,382 in 2024. 

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
Wyoming$4,712$6,020$6,341
U.S. Average$4,863$5,369$5,792
Montana$6,033$5,822$6,200
Idaho$4,255$5,170$5,151
Utah$4,595$4,425$4,997
Colorado$5,326$5,958$6,382

The Cost of Other Types of Senior Living

Care type influences the cost of senior living because it impacts the level of daily support that seniors need. Seniors who want to remain independent within a residential community can try independent living, which is an affordable option at $2,065 per month. Assisted living includes help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming and housekeeping, and it averages $5,000. Memory care features specialized support and programming for those with dementia, with rates averaging $6,020.

Wyoming Medicaid Programs for Memory Care

Wyoming Medicaid is an important resource for anyone who is unable to afford their medical bills. The program covers children, pregnant women and low-income adults. There are also long-term care benefits designed for seniors who require an institutional level of care due to dementia or other ongoing health concerns. The state also offers Medicaid waivers that pay for less restrictive services, including assisted living, memory care and in-home assistance.

  • Who Is Eligible: Institutional Medicaid and Medicaid home and community-based services waivers are available to applicants who are aged 65 or older, blind or disabled. Individuals must be assessed as requiring a nursing home level of care due to dementia, a chronic medical condition or functional limitations.
  • How To Apply: Seniors should contact the Wyoming Department of Health to apply for Medicaid. Applications can be submitted online or over the phone by calling the Customer Service Center at (855) 294-2127. The state also provides paper application forms if you prefer.

Community Choices Waiver 

Wyoming's Community Choices Waiver (CCW) covers an extensive variety of long-term services and supports to help dementia patients safely live in their preferred setting. The program reimburses licensed assisted living facilities at a fixed daily rate for the cost of personal care services they provide. The state covers standard assisted living services and supports provided in memory care units. This includes 24-hour supervision, personal assistance, medication reminders, social activities and security. Additional services, such as intermittent nursing or hospice, may be available to residents to supplement their care as determined by their case manager. The CCW pays for personal care services based on medical need, but it doesn’t help with the cost of room and board, maintenance or comfort items. This waiver also covers adult day health care programs for dementia and various community-based alternatives.

  • Who Is Eligible: The  Community Choices Waiver is available to seniors and disabled adults who require a nursing home level of care and qualify for Medicaid long-term care based on financial criteria.
  • How To Apply: Applying for waiver services is a multistep process. To apply for yourself or a loved one, contact your area Benefits and Eligibility Specialist. You’ll need to complete the CCW Application. A case manager and public health nurse will help you complete the screening process. Contact the Home and Community Based Services Section at (800) 510-0280 for more details.

Medicaid Eligibility for Seniors in Wyoming 

If you require long-term care, you can qualify for Medicaid with expanded income limits. Seniors and adults who are blind or disabled can earn approximately 300% of the federal benefit rate and still qualify. For 2022, this means that applicants can have up to $2,523 in monthly income, including retirement benefits. Assets are limited to $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples who both require nursing home care. If only one spouse is applying, the non applicant can keep up to $137,400 in assets plus a home and vehicle as well as a monthly needs allowance from the applicant's income.

2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Wyoming

family sizeannual income limitsasset limits
Single Person$30,276$2,000
Two-Person Household (Single Applicant)$30,276$2,000 for applicant $137,400 for non applicant
Two-Person Household (Dual Applicants)$60,552$3,000

Seniors must meet other requirements in addition to the above income and asset limits to qualify for Medicaid long-term care and waivers. Specially, they must:

  • Be aged 65 or older or disabled if younger
  • Satisfy citizenship and residency requirements
  • Require long-term care

How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid in Wyoming

If you need long-term care and are unable to pay for these services, Medicaid may be able to help. The state also allows seniors to appoint an authorized representative who can discuss their application with the state. For more information about Medicaid or to check the status of an application, contact the following agencies for assistance.

resourcecontactdescription
Wyoming Medicaid Customer Service Center855-294-2127For questions about Medicaid or to apply for benefits over the phone, contact the statewide Customer Service Center. Agents can also help with billing questions, eligibility concerns and information about covered services.
Long Term Care (LTC) Eligibility855-203-2936This bureau within the Division of Healthcare Financing is responsible for handling long-term care applications and renewals and conducting financial eligibility determinations. The unit's office is located in Cheyenne.
HCBS Benefits and Eligibility Specialists307-777-5074For help with memory care waivers and assisted living services, seniors should contact the Benefits and Eligibility Specialist in their area. The Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Section also provides information about these programs.

Can You Use Medicare to Pay for Memory Care in Wyoming?

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 Wyoming

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.
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Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Wyoming

Memory Care Regulation

The Department of Health, Office of Healthcare Licensing and Surveys regulates and licenses assisted living facilities, including facilities with secured units and those dedicated to the care of people with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. State surveyors conduct an unannounced health survey as part of the licensing process, and perform periodic surveys for license renewal and as needed to investigate complaints. The department may also place a monitor at the facility, at the owner’s expense, to ensure residents’ health and safety aren’t at risk. To operate a secure dementia unit, assisted living facilities must be licensed as a Level 2 facility and meet additional requirements.

Facility Scope of Care

Level 1 assisted living facilities must provide core services, including:

  • Partial assistance with personal care
  • Limited assistance with dressing
  • Cueing
  • Infrequent assistance with mobility
  • Limited assistance with incontinence and catheters
  • Minor non-sterile dressing changes
  • State 1 skin care
  • Assistance with getting medical, optometry and dental care
  • Assistance with transportation
  • 24-hour monitoring

Level 2 facilities must meet health care occupancy requirements and provide services in addition to Level 1 core services, including:

  • Increased assisted with activities of daily living
  • Increased assistance in maintaining continence and skin integrity
  • Assistance in maintaining nutrition and hydration
  • An activity program developed by a professional trained in dementia-specific activities

Admission Requirements

Assisted living facilities in Wyoming can admit a wide range of residents as long as they’re able to fulfill all the needs of each resident, but certain restrictions apply to individuals admitted into a secure dementia unit. New residents must have a medical history and physical performed in the 90 days prior to admittance. The following table provides an overview of the Alzheimer’s sufferers who may and may not be admitted to a Level 2 assisted living facility.

Residents Who May Be Admitted

Older adults and people with:

  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Dementia
  • Other related neurological disorders

Residents Who May NOT Be Admitted

Individuals who score more than 20 or less than 10 on the Mini-Mental State Exam or require:

  • Ongoing nursing care
  • More than limited assistance to evacuate
  • Total assistance with activities of daily living
  • Continuous assistance with mobility and transfers
  • Constant supervision to prevent wandering that threatens health and safety

Care Plan Requirements

A registered nurse must complete a preadmission assessment to determine each new resident’s needs, and Level 2 facilities also must complete a Mini-Mental State Exam for individuals being considered for a secure unit. Additional assessments and MMSEs must be completed at least annually, and anytime there’s a significant change in a resident’s physical or mental condition. Assessments are used to develop, review and revise individualized care plan requirements. Plans must include what, when and how care will be provided, who will provide care and the expected outcome. Facilities must include residents in the development of their own care plans. A relative or another interested party may also participate, especially if the resident has limited participation abilities.

Medication Management Requirements

A registered nurse must always be responsible for the supervision and management of all residents’ medication administration, including a review of medications every two months and when medications are prescribed or changed. The nurse must also document whether a resident is capable of self-administering medications. Only registered nurses or licensed practical nurses can administer medications to residents who can’t self-administer. However, non-licensed staff may assist with oral medication, but only by helping to remove container caps or medication from a container for residents with functional disabilities, or by providing reminders and watching while residents take their medications.

Facility Requirements

Apartment-style units aren’t required in Wyoming. Half of the beds in a facility must be in private rooms, and private residency rooms must be at least 120 square feet in size. A maximum of two residents may share one unit by choice, and shared units must provide at least 80 square feet of space per resident. Two residents are permitted to share a room with one bed by mutual consent, if the bed is a double or larger. A facility must provide at least one sink and flush toilet for every two residents, and at least one tub or shower for every 10 residents.

Staffing Requirements

In Level 2 facilities, a licensed nurse must always be on duty to perform ongoing resident evaluations and administer medications, as needed. If this nurse is an LPN, an RN must be available on the premises or by phone. Also, the facility must always have at least one on-duty staff member with specialized training in providing care and supervision of residents with severe cognitive impairment. All assisted living facility staff must pass a Department of Family Services central registry screening and Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation fingerprint background check before having direct contact with residents. Level 2 facility staff must complete at least 12 hours of dementia care-related continuing education on a yearly basis.

Medicaid Policy

Medicaid doesn’t pay for room and board in assisted living facilities; However, Wyoming’s Assisted Living Facility Waiver, which is now part of the Community Choices Waiver program, may help qualified residents cover certain costs. This waiver may provide financial assistance for services received while in a licensed assisted living facility, including daily care services, memory care services, case management and others benefiting residents with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

Reporting Abuse

Wyoming is a mandatory reporting state, so anyone suspecting abuse of a memory care, assisted living or nursing facility resident must legally report it. This includes any type of abuse, including injuries of unknown source, plus mistreatment, neglect or misappropriation of resident property. Suspicions of abuse may be reported to one of these three agencies:

  • The Wyoming Long Term Care Ombudsman, located on the 4th floor of the Wyoming Department of Health at 2300 Capitol Avenue in Cheyenne, which can be reached by calling 307-777-2885.

The Office of Healthcare Licensing and Surveys, located in Suite 510 of the Wyoming Department of Health offices at 2300 Capitol Avenue in Cheyenne, which can be reached by calling 307-777-7123 and asking to speak with a health surveyor.

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Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Wyoming

In Wyoming, 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 Wyoming 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
Wyoming Aging Advisory Council800-442-2766Wyoming's Area Agencies in Aging provide crucial support for seniors, offering caregiver assistance, nonemergency medical and nonmedical services such as home-delivered meals, disease prevention, and home care aid. Services include service coordination, personal grooming assistance, and essential homemaker support for daily living activities. These services empower older adults to maintain a high quality of life in Wyoming and age gracefully in the comfort of their own homes.

Cash Assistance Programs

Financial assistance initiatives exist in Wyoming 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
Wyoming Lifeline Program800-234-9473The LifeLine Program offers discounted telephone service, enabling participants to stay connected with their loved ones through landline or mobile phones.
Wyoming TANF/POWER307-856-6522Wyoming TANF/POWER supports low-income seniors who are primary caregivers of minors. Benefits include child support assistance, cash payments, and help with finding employment and financial stability. Eligibility requires caring for children under 18 and meeting income requirements. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, legal aliens, or qualified aliens. The program also offers interim support for individuals recovering from illness.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living

Elderly individuals in Wyoming, 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
Wyoming Community Choices Waiver800-510-0280The Community Choices Waiver is a Home and Community-Based Services Waiver that offers coverage for personal care assistance, skilled nursing, and other support for seniors.

Food Assistance Programs

In Wyoming, 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
Wyoming Food Bank877-265-2172The Wyoming Food Bank partners with agencies and programs in all Wyoming counties to deliver food parcels to eligible seniors. Through the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, the food bank supports the health of low-income adults aged 60 and above by providing monthly home deliveries of nonperishable protein, fruits, vegetables, milk, and other shelf-stable foods. Seniors may also qualify for fresh produce, dairy, and bread.
Wyoming Meals on WheelsMeals on Wheels is a food assistance organization that delivers nutritious meals to homebound older adults in Wyoming. These meals, planned by registered dietitians, can improve seniors' health and independence. The organization operates through local programs for individuals aged 60 and over. Seniors must apply and undergo a needs assessment, and some programs may require referrals from doctors or social workers.
Wyoming Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)307-777-5846The Wyoming Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program offers monthly benefits to low-income adults aged 60 and above, assisting them in buying food. Qualified seniors receive electronic cards for food purchases at participating Wyoming stores, such as Walmart. To be eligible, applicants must have resources valued below $3,750, unless they receive Supplemental Security Income or POWER/Tribal TANF. Seniors can apply by completing and submitting an application at their local DFS office.

Free Used Medical Equipment

In Wyoming, 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
Wyoming Assistive Technology Resources888-989-9463The University of Wyoming provides a convenient medical equipment closet for residents. Seniors can easily borrow durable assistive devices like wheelchairs and walkers. This service ensures accessibility for all individuals in need.
Wyoming Life Resource Center800-294-1888The Center provides a diverse selection of durable medical equipment and therapeutic devices in its library. It is open to all Wyoming residents, granting them access to these resources. While financial donations are welcomed, they are not obligatory.

Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors

Elderly residents of Wyoming 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
Wyoming Medication Donation Program855-257-5041The Wyoming Medication Donation Program supports low-income individuals in the state with a convenient mail-order pharmacy service. Qualified individuals receive donated medications, which are thoroughly assessed by pharmacists to ensure their safety and appropriateness for redistribution to those in need.

Home Repair and Modifications

In Wyoming, 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
Wyoming Section 504 Home Repair Program307-233-6799The Section 504 Home Repair Program in Casper, WY, by the USDA Rural Development Department helps low-income homeowners. It offers loans and grants to seniors aged 62 and above, allowing them to make essential repairs, address health hazards, or improve their homes' appearance. Eligibility requirements include owning one's home, inability to access credit, and having an income below the county's limit.

Social Security Offices

In Wyoming, 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
Wyoming 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 Wyoming, 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
Wyoming Veteran's Property Tax Exemption Program307-777-5200The state of Wyoming provides a property tax assistance program for military veterans who served in wars like Korea, Vietnam, WWI, and WWII. Administered by the local county assessor, the program recognizes and supports eligible individuals, including honorably discharged veterans, disabled veterans, surviving spouses, and those who received campaign medals during armed conflicts outside the United States.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

In Wyoming, 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
Wyoming Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP)800-246-4221The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides support to families struggling with winter utility bills. It also offers emergency financial aid to those at risk of or already facing utility disconnection.

Veteran's Services

In Wyoming, 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
Wyoming VA Benefits and Health CareWyoming VA Benefits and Health Care provides tailored assistance to senior veterans in Wyoming. Expert health care is available at VA Medical Centers in Cheyenne and Sheridan, with outpatient clinics conveniently located throughout the state. The Cheyenne Vet Center offers confidential support, including counseling for mental health issues such as depression and PTSD. Eligible veterans can also access adaptive equipment and housing through the VA benefits administration.

Wyoming COVID-19 Rules for Memory Care Facilities

Note: The following information was compiled and most recently updated on 2/15/2022. 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?No
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?Yes
Are residents of senior living facilities who leave required to quarantine when they get back?No (Conditions Apply)
Are staff members and contractors checked for elevated temperatures?Yes
Are staff members and contractors tested for COVID-19?Yes (Conditions Apply)
Do staff members have to regularly screen residents for COVID-19 symptoms?Yes
Do staff members have to regularly check residents for elevated temperatures?Yes
Do staff members have to regularly test residents for COVID-19?Yes (Conditions Apply)
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