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With its climate of dry heat and beautiful landscape, this state is one of the most popular areas for retirement in the country. Arizona is known as one of the most tax-friendly states, as citizens pay no income tax and have no taxes levied against their Social Security checks or financial legacies. For people in almost any tax bracket, these factors make the state an ideal location to seek an assisted living community.

Directory of Assisted Living Facilities in Arizona

Finding the right assisted living community can be a highly complicated task. To simplify your research process, we have conducted a comprehensive review of facilities in the state of Arizona. In the table below, you will find a helpful list of key data points, including each facility’s amenities, costs, and Medicaid acceptance status.

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How to Pay for Assisted Living in Arizona

Determining how to finance assisted living often starts with the question, “What’s the cost?” In today’s economy, where inflation plays a significant role, having current data is crucial for senior living financial planning. AssistedLiving.org has gathered cost information from its expansive network of over 75,000 senior living providers. This data offers a glimpse into the average expenses for assisted living in Arizona and 23 additional cities within Arizona.

How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Assisted Living in Arizona

Inflation has affected the cost of assisted living in Arizona, causing an increase of 10.5% between 2022 and 2023, which is the same rate as the national increase in cost. The 2023 average cost was $4,420 in Arizona, compared to $4,129 in Utah and $3,716 in Nevada. California saw an increase of 7%, while New Mexico had the largest increase of nearby states of 21%.

Looking toward 2024, inflation will likely increase Arizona’s assisted living costs to $4,962. Nationally, the cost is expected to grow to $4,802. Because of ongoing inflation, planning for senior living costs benefits from forward thinking.

Location 2022 Cost (Historical) 2023 Cost (Current) 2024 Cost (Estimated)
Arizona $4,008 $4,420 $4,962
U.S. Average $4,070 $4,459 $4,802
Utah $3,690 $4,129 $4,200
Nevada $3,586 $3,716 $3,957
California $4,625 $4,946 $5,221
New Mexico $3,465 $4,185 $4,752

Assisted Living Costs in Arizona's Top Cities

Seniors planning for assisted living will notice there are varied costs across the state. For instance, Flagstaff is one of the more costly cities, with an average of $5,978, while Tucson is more affordable at $4,263. Similarly, Phoenix has an assisted living cost of around $5,073, but nearby Scottsdale has a much lower cost at $4,255. Because these prices vary so much from city to city, having a plan is essential.

The Cost of Other Types of Senior Living

For seniors, choosing the right level of care is part of planning for senior living costs. Assisted living works well for seniors who can live independently with some support, and it averages $4,420 a month. In contrast, memory care provides more intensive support for seniors with Alzheimer’s and similar conditions, and it is valued at $5,401. Independent living provides little support and averages $3,009, and it works for seniors who want community activities and independence.

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Arizona

The Arizona Healthcare Cost Containment Center System (Medicaid)

The Medicaid system for the state of Arizona is called the AHCCCS. The AHCCCS covers long-term care services for people who are nursing home-eligible, and who otherwise meet certain financial eligibility requirements. There are no waitlists involved, and no caps on how much assistance can be granted to individual participants.

Qualified assisted living residents may receive Medicaid reimbursement for personal care services, which licensed facilities offer to aid residents with activities of daily living, like eating, bathing, and dressing. For residents with greater medical impairment, the program may reimburse for directed care services provided by licensed ALF personnel, such as a registered nurse or nurse’s assistant.

Who is Eligible?

To qualify for long-term care coverage through Medicaid, Arizona citizens must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Must be an Arizona resident or a qualified immigrant
  • Must be 65 or older
  • Must have a Social Security number
  • Must be assessed by the AHCCCS as nursing home-eligible
  • Must apply for all other cash benefit sources for which applicant may qualify
  • Must not have countable resources of more than $2,000
  • Must have earned income below $2,250

If an applicant’s resources or income is over the limit stated above, exceptions may be made for married couples who have applied for Community Spouse approval. For single individuals with assets that exceed the Medicaid eligibility limits, a Special Treatment Trust may be a viable option. For all applicants, after income and resources are accounted for, a Share of Cost assessment may be levied that would require the applicant to pay for a small portion of their service costs.

How to Apply

To initiate a relationship with a dedicated case manager at the Arizona Long-Term Care Services Office, find the ALTCS office location closest to you. The ALTCS has nine locations throughout the state. The Area Agencies on Aging are also a good place to start the application process. Your local Agency may be able to help you plan a more comprehensive retirement picture.

More Ways to Finance Assisted Living

Some additional ways to finance assisted living costs include:

  • Veterans Benefits: Veterans can take advantage of several different pension programs to help cover the cost of assisted living. For more information, see the article on benefits.va.gov.
  • Life Insurance Policies: Even if a spouse or loved one hasn’t died, certain types of life insurance policies can be used to pay for assisted living. More information is available at longtermcare.acl.gov.
  • Long-Term Care Insurance: Long-term care insurance is a type of insurance policy that pays for long-term care when it becomes necessary, including the cost of assisted living. For more information on the benefits and drawbacks of this financing method, visit longtermcare.acl.gov.
  • Reverse Mortgages: Reverse mortgages allow seniors to access the equity from a home that they own, and these funds can be used to pay for assisted living. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers a federally insured reverse mortgage program.

Free Assisted Living Resources in Arizona

In Arizona, a multitude of resources are available to support seniors during their retirement years. AssistedLiving.org has gathered data on various local entities, initiatives, and agencies, and organized them according to the type of care they provide for effortless navigation.

Area Agency on Aging

Your local Area Agency on Aging is a valuable resource for retirees, offering guidance on financial aid, in-home care, and long-term care planning. They also link seniors and caregivers to community resources.

Program Name

Phone Number

Description

Arizona Area Agencies on Aging

 

Arizona’s Area Agencies on Aging offer support and advocacy for older residents, helping them stay in their homes. With remote and statewide locations, they connect seniors, families, and caregivers to various services. These include home-delivered meals and assistance with managing chronic health conditions. A 24-hour senior helpline is also available at (888)-783-7500.

Cash Assistance Programs

In Arizona, financial aid programs are available to support low-income seniors in maintaining their home-based living. These programs offer tax relief, essential service discounts, and assistance with home heating and cooling expenses.

Program Name

Phone Number

Description

Arizona Lifeline Program

800-234-9473

The LifeLine Program provides discounted telephone service, allowing participants to maintain communication with their loved ones via landline or mobile phones.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living

Seniors in Arizona, whether residing independently or in a senior living facility, have access to various local financial aid options. These entities assist in offsetting certain in-home or long-term care expenses and link them to beneficial community resources.

Program Name

Phone Number

Description

Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS)

 

The Arizona Long Term Care System provides a wide range of supportive services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. It includes coverage for nursing home care and community-based options, allowing you to stay in your preferred residential setting. Services covered include in-home care, personal care attendants, assisted living, adult day health care, and more.

Food Assistance Programs

In Arizona, various local initiatives are dedicated to promoting senior health through balanced nutrition. They offer services like meal delivery, communal dining, and food banks, ensuring elderly residents have access to affordable, nutritious food.

Program Name

Phone Number

Description

Arizona The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)

 

TEFAP is a federal program that offers free emergency food packages to low-income individuals and seniors during times of need. Each monthly food box contains shelf-stable items like canned or dried fruits, vegetables, pasta, bread, and bottled juices. Eligibility requires a total household income below 185% of the federal poverty line. Numerous participating distributors are available throughout Arizona.

Arizona C.R.I.T. Food Distribution Program

928-669-1283

The C.R.I.T. Food Distribution Program in Parker, AZ, supports low-income seniors and individuals in the Colorado River Indian Tribes Reservation area, encompassing Riverside and San Bernardino counties in California and La Paz County in Arizona. This nutrition assistance initiative offers USDA-approved foods and locally grown produce to supplement monthly groceries. Qualified elderly and disabled residents may be eligible for home meal delivery. Applications are required, and food distribution is available on weekdays by appointment.

Arizona Commodity Senior Food Program (CSFP)

 

The Commodity Senior Food Program in Arizona caters to low-income seniors by providing them with monthly deliveries or pickups of nutritious food. The program offers a variety of packages that include canned meats, fruits, vegetables, milk, cereal, rice, and pasta. Arizona purchases the food for the program from the USDA. Eligibility for participation is based on income qualifications.

Arizona Meals on Wheels

 

The Arizona Meals on Wheels program offers nutritious meals to seniors in need. For those who cannot travel, pre-prepared meals can be delivered right to their door. Volunteers not only provide meals but also offer companionship and safety checks during deliveries. Meal costs are determined based on individual circumstances. Seniors who are able to get out can enjoy congregate meals at various locations throughout the state, fostering socialization among older residents.

Arizona Senior Farmers Markets Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

 

The Arizona Senior Farmers Markets Nutrition Program offers vouchers to eligible seniors aged 60 and above, enabling them to purchase fresh food at local farmer’s markets. Income-based qualification is required. Additionally, select locations provide Community Supported Agriculture boxes, eliminating the need to travel and shop at the market.

Free Used Medical Equipment

In Arizona, numerous groups are addressing the steep expense of new medical equipment. They gather gently used items like wheelchairs, ramps, and walkers, providing them to local seniors and individuals in need.

Program Name

Phone Number

Description

Arizona Loans for Assistive Technology (AZLAT)

800-477-9921

With around 4,000 assistive technology (AT) and AT-related products, this program, run by Northern Arizona University, offers solutions for hearing and vision loss, as well as functional needs.

Home Repair and Modifications

In Arizona, numerous programs are available to aid seniors and individuals with disabilities in financing home modifications and repairs. These programs, offering grants or loans, have diverse eligibility requirements specifically designed for retirees.

Program Name

Phone Number

Description

Arizona Weatherization Assistance Program

 

The Weatherization Assistance Program provides funding for energy-efficient upgrades and home improvements at no cost to eligible individuals.

Arizona Emergency Repairs and Housing Rehabilitation

 

The Arizona Department of Housing offers community block grants for designated areas, providing financial assistance for emergency repairs.

In Arizona, numerous agencies provide affordable or complimentary legal assistance to the elderly. They offer counsel on matters like estate management, living wills, and power of attorney. Some even serve as advocates for seniors’ rights in long-term care facilities.

Program Name

Phone Number

Description

Arizona Community Legal Services

602-258-3434

This agency provides free legal advice and representation to seniors and low-income adults. Experienced attorneys assist with tax issues, helping seniors resolve problems with the IRS. They also offer support in accessing health care and public benefits. In addition, the organization operates a resource center that provides self-help information and forms.

Arizona Senior Citizens Law Project

866-637-5341

The Arizona Senior Citizens Law Project offers complimentary legal services to seniors aged 60 and above in Maricopa County. Although there are no income prerequisites, the organization prioritizes requests from low-income seniors. They provide assistance in legal and civil matters, connecting seniors with private attorneys. Services include estate planning, will drafting, and guidance on Social Security and veteran benefits.

Senior Centers

In Arizona, senior centers serve as a hub for older adults, providing recreational activities, events, and valuable resources. These centers also offer wellness programs, nutritional guidance, and assistance with senior-related concerns.

Program Name

Phone Number

Description

Arizona Complete Health Avondale Resource Center

623-333-2741

The community center in Avondale offers a range of enjoyable activities and events for residents aged 60 and older. From fitness classes to bingo and raffles, there’s something for everyone. Transportation service is also provided to and from the campus. Join us for a fun-filled time at the Avondale community center.

Social Security Offices

In Arizona, Social Security offices provide essential services to seniors and individuals with disabilities. They offer guidance on retirement benefits, disability allowances, and Supplemental Security Income.

Program Name

Phone Number

Description

Arizona Social Security

 

Social Security provides income for retirees and individuals unable to work due to disability. Funding is derived from payroll taxes paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Upon retirement, monthly payments are determined by previous earnings.

Tax Assistance

Numerous tax aid resources are available in Arizona for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. These include potential exemptions on medical costs, property tax reductions, and other tax relief initiatives.

Program Name

Phone Number

Description

Arizona Senior Property Tax Freeze

 

Seniors in Arizona can safeguard the assessed value of their primary residence for three years through the property valuation protection option offered by the Arizona Department of Revenue. While tax rates may vary due to local regulations, this program ensures stability. To apply, seniors can submit their applications to the County Assessor for processing.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

Organizations are available to aid low-income seniors in {catalog.city} struggling with home maintenance costs, including utility and energy bills. Emergency funding may also be accessible for those at risk of utility service termination due to unpaid bills.

Program Name

Phone Number

Description

Arizona Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

866-494-1981

LIHEAP offers a single payment annually to eligible families, assisting with unpaid energy bills, deposits, and energy-efficient expenses.

Veteran’s Services

Veteran services in Arizona offer invaluable assistance to retired military personnel. These local entities guide veterans in utilizing their rightful benefits and provide counsel on diverse matters.

Program Name

Phone Number

Description

Arizona VA Benefits and Health Care

 

Arizona VA Benefits and Health Care is a support network that offers a wide range of services to senior veterans. It provides comprehensive health care solutions, including mental health and PTSD support. The program also assists with disability compensation, pensions, and home loans to provide financial support. Additionally, it offers assistance with burials and memorials, showcasing its dedication to the veteran community.

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Arizona

Arizona’s DHS Department of Licensing Services oversees the regulation of assisted living throughout the state. Below is an overview of the standards and requirements of Arizona Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs).

Assisted Living Service Plans

Before moving into an assisted living facility, prospective residents or their representatives will meet with facility managers for an interview. In this interview, the needs and expectations of the resident are established, and so is the ALF’s ability to meet those stated needs. The service plan will be supplemented with a residency agreement which explains all resident rights, costs, and responsibilities.

ALF service plans must include:

  • A description of the resident’s medical conditions, including any physical, cognitive, or behavioral impairments
  • The level and scope of services the resident will receive
  • Types of services to be received and their frequency

Any residents who receive behavioral care must have goals and strategies included in their service plan to be confirmed by a physician or behavioral healthcare provider. If the plan involves recurrent medication administration or other skilled nursing services, a nurse or medical practitioner must review and confirm the document. Major changes in an ALF resident’s life or health status may prompt a reassessment of the service plan. Regular updates are required every three, six, or twelve months depending on the level of care a resident receives.

Assisted Living Admission Requirements

An ALF cannot accommodate residents whose medical needs exceed it’s available scope of care unless they are covered by a licensed home health agency. Home health agencies can be hired by residents with greater medical needs, although there are limitations on residency in an ALF for more fully disabled individuals. Residents cannot be admitted to an ALF if they are permanently bedridden or require the use of restraints, and in the state of Arizona, only Directed Care ALFs may accept nursing home-eligible residents.

Assisted Living Scope of Care

Each state uses certain labels to classify the scope of care available at assisted living facilities. In Arizona, there are three such labels for ALFs; they are Supervisory Care, Personal Care, and Directed Care, with each designation signifying the extent of medical and functional assistance that residents may require.

Residents in ALFs may also engage in contracts to receive services from a third-party organization, such as a licensed home health agency, licensed hospice agency, or a private duty nurse. Facilities that are licensed as Personal Care Providers cannot house residents whose level of impairment requires the greater assistance provided in Directed Care facilities.

Supervisory Care facilities can provide:

  • General supervision of residents’ needs and continuing function
  • Crisis intervention by staff
  • Assistance with the self-administration of medicines

Personal Care facilities can also provide:

  • Assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, eating, and dressing
  • Coordination or provision of intermittent nursing services
  • Administration of medicines and treatments by a licensed nurse

Directed Care facilities can accommodate people who:

  • Need significant assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, eating, and dressing
  • Are incapable of recognizing danger
  • Are incapable of summoning assistance and/or expressing needs
  • Are incapable of making basic care decisions

Assisted Living Medicaid Policy

For people who are nursing home-eligible, Arizona’s Long-Term Care Services program may partially reimburse ALFs for services rendered. Medicaid does not reimburse for room and board payments, but it does significantly limit the amount that Medicaid recipients may be charged for these costs. Coverage of care services is conducted through a managed care program in Arizona, which means that private companies provide coverage plans after bidding for contracts with individual facilities. Managed care plans do not place funding caps on an individual’s coverage, and there are no waitlists for participation.

Assisted Living Facility Requirements

Arizona allows ALFs to offer both private apartment living and private bedroom residency within shared buildings. In either arrangement, tenants must have at least 80 usable feet of space, not including closets or bathrooms. More than two people living in a single unit is very rarely permitted, but in units housing more than one resident, there must be at least 60 feet of usable space per person. Residential units must have keyed entry, a bathroom (one per eight people), a resident-controlled thermostat, and a fully functional kitchen. Directed Care facilities may also be required to house residents’ sleeping areas on ground floors.

Medication Management Regulations

Residents may administer their own medications if they are deemed mentally and physically capable of doing so by a medical specialist. Unlicensed staff can assist residents indirectly by providing cues to take medicines, opening packaging, reading labels, and confirming proper dosage. However, certification or endorsement may be necessary for unlicensed personnel to more directly administer medicines. Nurses who are on staff or acting as third-party contractors are permitted to directly administer medications for people unable to do so for themselves.

Staffing Requirements

While Arizona ALFs have no staff-to-resident ratio requirements, every facility must keep enough staff on hand to fulfill residents’ needs and meet the conditions of facility licensure. An administrator or administrator’s proxy will always be on the grounds, and administrators must designate a manager to oversee daily operations. A staff member must always be awake and available on the grounds, including throughout the night, and all staff must be able to perform support services for residents. A registered nurse will also be on staff to help coordinate care and directly assist residents.

Staff Training Requirements

Staff of Arizona assisted living facilities can include caregivers, assistant caregivers, registered nurses, nurse’s assistants, managers, and administrators. The qualifications required of any personnel will depend on the type of assisted living services, behavioral health services, or behavioral care provided at the facility.

Administrators must be at least 21 years old, state certified, and able to supply proof of at least 12 months of professional healthcare management experience. It is the administrator’s job to institute a state-approved program of staff and managerial training which includes entry-level training plus an additional 12 hours annual continuing education. All staff must also complete six hours per year of CPR and first aid training.

For the three levels of care available in Arizona assisted living facilities, the duration and subject matter of training will vary. Training for employment at a Supervisory Care facility requires a baseline 20 hours of pre-employment orientation. Personal Care facilities add on another 30 hours of training requirements for a total of 50 hours, and Directed Care facilities tack on another 12, for a total of 62 training hours.

Background Checks for Assisted Living

Within 20 days of being hired, all staff members and volunteers at an assisted living community must submit to a background check by the Department of Health Services in order to obtain a fingerprint clearance card. Any person who has been convicted of abusive or exploitative behavior, or who is associated with substantiated reports of such behavior will not be hired at an Arizona assisted living community.

Reporting Abuse

The state of Arizona maintains dedicated points of contact for anyone wishing to report rule-breaking on the part of assisted living facilities or to report elder abuse.

The Arizona Department of Licensing accepts complaints against ALFs through an online form. The Department also provides a complaint tracking tool called AZ CareCheck that allows consumers to review assisted living facility ratings and surveys.

The Division of Aging and Adult Services maintains the state’s adult protective services hotline. The hotline can be reached 24/7 and reports are confidential. To report any form of abuse, including physical or emotional abuse, exploitation, fraud, theft, neglect, or abandonment, call (877) 767-2385.

Arizona COVID-19 Rules for Assisted Living Facilities

Note: The following information was compiled and most recently updated on 2/22/22. Since COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving crisis, be sure to contact your assisted living facility or local Area Agency on Aging for the most up-to-date information.

COVID-19 Rules in Arizona
Are loved ones allowed to visit residents in their assisted living community? Yes (Conditions Apply)
Are residents required to quarantine after their loved ones visit? No
Are loved ones required to wear masks when visiting residents? Yes
Are Hairdressers and other non-medical contractors allowed in assisted living communities? Not Available*
Are visitors screened for elevated temperatures before entering the assisted living community? Yes
Are residents allowed to leave the assisted living community for non-medical reasons? Yes (Conditions Apply)
Are residents who leave required to quarantine when they get back to the assisted living community? No (Conditions Apply
Are assisted living communities required to cancel all group outings? No
Are assisted living communities allowed to host group activities within the community? Yes
Are staff members regularly checked for elevated temperatures? Yes
Are staff members regularly tested for COVID-19? 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

 

Source: www.azdhs.gov

*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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