Paying for assisted living in Maine
Most families in Maine begin by paying for assisted living out of pocket. Costs vary widely depending on the community, the region of the state, the size of the apartment, and how much day-to-day help a resident needs. You can see current local pricing in the tables below.
People typically combine several sources to cover the bill, such as personal savings and retirement income, the proceeds from selling a home, long-term care insurance, and veterans benefits. Some residents also qualify for help through MaineCare once their own resources run low.
Does MaineCare cover assisted living in Maine?
MaineCare, Maine's Medicaid program, can help pay for the care and services delivered in an assisted living or residential care setting, but it never pays for room and board. Coverage is provided through Home and Community-Based Services and the state's residential care and Private Non-Medical Institution (PNMI) framework, which reimburses for personal care, medication management, and supervision in licensed assisted housing programs.
A few things to know:
- Eligibility has both a financial side (limited income and assets) and a functional side. A state assessment determines whether you need a nursing-home level of care, which is generally required to receive these services.
- The number of MaineCare-funded slots is limited, so there can be a waitlist.
- Not every community participates, so confirm a facility accepts MaineCare before you move in.
To apply, file a MaineCare Long-Term Care application through the Office for Family Independence, online at My Maine Connection or by mail, email, fax, or a local district office. A free Aging and Disability Resource Center can walk you through the process.
Does Medicare cover assisted living in Maine?
No. Medicare does not pay for assisted living room and board or for the ongoing custodial care (help with bathing, dressing, and other daily activities) that defines assisted living.
Medicare may still cover medically necessary services a resident receives while living there, such as doctor visits, hospital care, short-term skilled nursing or rehab after a qualifying hospital stay, and prescription drugs under Part D.
For free, unbiased help comparing Medicare, Medigap, and Part D options, contact Maine's State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) through your local Aging and Disability Resource Center at 1-877-353-3771.
