Assisted Living in Texas

Is assisted living the right care option for you?

Determining the level of care you or your loved one requires is an important first step. Assisted living facilities are ideal locations for aging seniors who need help with certain daily activities but do not require 24-hour supervision. Moving in to an assisted living community is a great option for seniors who are having trouble taking care of themselves at home or if in-home care expenses are getting too costly. If assisted living is right for you, learn all you can about each community and the services they provide. The level of care and supervision at assisted living facilities in Houston may be different than those at an assisted living care center in Austin.

TX Assisted Living Communities View Senior Care Digital Guide

What care services are typically provided in assisted living communities in Texas?

In order to maintain licensing in Texas, assisted living providers must provide certain care services to residents and are routinely inspected to ensure they are meeting these requirements. Residents should expect to find these care services and more at each licensed care community:

Distribution of Medication
Dining Services and Meal Prep
Nursing Care and Medical Services
Emergency Call Systems
Exercise and Social Activities

What is the average cost of assisted living in Texas?

The average cost of assisted living care in Texas is $3,795 per month according to Genworth’s 2018 cost of care survey. That is slightly below the national average in the US that was reported at $4,000 per month. The cities that reported some of the more expensive costs of care included Austin, Dallas, Odessa and San Angelo whereas larger cities like Houston and San Antonio were right around average in the state.

How can you pay for assisted living care in Texas?

As mentioned above, the average cost of assisted living care is $3,795/month. If you do not have a substantial amount of money in a savings account or a retirement account, your social security benefit alone won’t likely cover the cost of care at an assisted living facility. Texas has a few options for seniors who need assistance paying for assisted living care.

STAR+PLUS Waiver Program: If you fall below the monthly income limit of $2,250 with assets totaling less than $2,000 as an individual applicant, the STAR+PLUS waiver can help pay for services at an assisted living community. Seniors over the age of 65 must fill out an application on-line. There may be a waiting list so it is important not to delay.
Community First Choice (CFC): The CFC program is a Medicaid entitlement program that is available for applicants who qualify for Medicaid and meet the level of care provided at a nursing home in Texas. Care is provided by a personal care assistant and although this program does not cover room and board, it may help reduce the cost of care to make certain assisted living options affordable. Learn more online.
Veterans Affairs Benefits: Armed service veterans can apply for assistance to help with assisted living costs through the VA at the age of 65. Economical assistance from the VA is similar to Medicaid as it is awarded as a need-based program. Learn more about applying for assistance with the VA.

Can Social Security pay for assisted living costs in Texas?

If your social security benefit does not cover the cost of room and board at an assisted living community, Texas does not supplement Social Security like some states do. However, if you are a Medicaid recipient who resides in an assisted living community and is eligible for Social Security Income, you should receive enough financial assistance to cover the cost of room and board. Find and visit your local Social Security office for more assistance.

Who regulates assisted living care in Texas?

Assisted living regulatory services are now provided by Texas’ Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

What is the difference between a Type A and a Type B assisted living facility?

In Texas, assisted living facilities are broken down into two classes, A and B. Class A facilities are for residents who do not require routine attendance during sleeping hours and are capable of following instructions during an emergency evacuation. Class B facilities are designated for residents who require routine attendance during sleeping hours and are incapable of following directions during an emergency evacuation.